The Graduate and LGDC categories have been eliminated, the Associate category has been re-named Affiliate and limited to non-designers, and the professional members changed from MGDC to CGD certification. It is important to note that there has been no change to the professional membership application process, it is simply a clearer and more definitive honourific. The same requirements and portfolio review are in effect.

A new Provisional category has been established for those professional members who have applied online and are awaiting portfolio review, recent graduates, and those working in the field of graphic design who do not yet have the required education and/or years of experience for professional membership.

As of November 1, 2010, the GDC will no longer be accepting applications for the LGDC category. As of January 1, 2010, the new categories will come into effect. It is anticipated that current LGDCs will have one year to transition to the Professional category (or to the provisional category as the case may be). There is currently a Membership Transition Subcommittee developing policy guidelines for the implementation process including national membership dues rates. This will be presented to the National Executive in November and voted on by the GDC National Council in December.

If you have any questions or feedback, please contact the National Vice-President Membership, Patrice Snopkowski CGD () or the GDC Administrative Director, Melanie MacDonald (info@gdc.net).