Ignite Your Creativity at Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Students, staff, faculty, alumni and the public gather at Emily Carr University for the opening night of The Show, ECU’s annual graduating student exhibition © Courtesy of Emily Carr University  of Art and Design

Ignite Your Creativity at Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Calling all creatives: whether you’re a student gearing up for a career in the arts or a lifelong learner seeking new skills in design, Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) is calling you to join a vibrant community where artistic minds come together to push boundaries, challenge norms, and create the extraordinary.

A World-Class Reputation

Located in the eclectic neighbourhood of Mount Pleasant in Vancouver, British Columbia, ECU is one of the world’s premier institutions dedicated solely to arts, media, and design. A hub for innovation, ECU has a nearly 100-year legacy of nurturing creative minds and bringing ideas to life.

Since 2020, Emily Carr University has ranked among the top 25 schools worldwide for art and design by QS World University Rankings. Additionally, it has ranked among the top 10 schools worldwide for animation since 2022, according to Animation Career Review. And ECU remains Canada’s top-ranked school for art and design, attracting students from over 50 countries.

Rooted in history and critical theory, ECU offers a professional, practice-oriented environment where students are encouraged to explore new ways of thinking and creating. The university’s curriculum is as diverse as it is flexible, with 17 majors and three undergraduate degrees, complemented by two master’s degrees.

At ECU, innovation isn’t just encouraged; it’s ingrained in the culture. The university is a research leader, driving advancements in sustainability, health design, VR/AR, and entrepreneurship. With two Canada Research Chairs and six dedicated research centres, ECU empowers students to explore the intersections of art, design, and technology.

Beyond the Classroom

ECU goes beyond traditional education, offering dynamic co-op opportunities, internships, and exchange programs with over 70 art and design schools worldwide. Faculty members, who are practicing artists and designers themselves, encourage research and experimentation across all artistic mediums.

In its commitment to innovation, ECU is introducing two new programs that cater to aspiring artists and designers.

Accelerated Summer Foundation:

A unique 15-week program that fast-tracks students through their first year of undergraduate studies, allowing them to jump straight into their chosen field of study. Designed for high school graduates, transfer students, or those with previous degrees, this intensive program introduces students to a blend of hands-on studio work, interdisciplinary exploration, and close mentorship. Students cultivate vital skills in visual arts, design, film, and screen arts while building lasting connections with peers and instructors.

Master of Design Information Futures:

Tailored for visionary designers eager to shape the future of our communities, this immersive two-year online graduate degree delves deep into information and systems design, empowering students to tackle complex societal challenges through innovative, future-oriented practices.

Through a blend of synchronous and asynchronous virtual environments, students take part in socially engaged, practice-based research, exploring themes ranging from social and cultural impact to environmental sustainability. With a specialized curriculum designed for remote accessibility, students gain valuable skills and insights while forging connections with peers from around the globe.

A Diverse Approach to Learning

ECU understands that creativity knows no bounds, but budgets do. ECU offers competitive tuition rates and a range of financial aid options, including awards and bursaries. To help prepare for your career, ECU offers co-op opportunities and career pathway support.

While the university doesn’t currently offer on-campus housing, its Student Services team assists students in finding accommodations that suit their needs. The ECU campus is a vibrant arts scene surrounded by a breathtaking backdrop of mountains, ocean, and easy access to nature. Within walking distance from ECU, students will find great study spots, shopping, trendy places to eat, and endless fun things to do.

Crucially, ECU is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all students, with a particular focus on supporting Indigenous learners. The Aboriginal Gathering Place (AGP) serves as a cultural hub, empowering Indigenous students to develop their identities and strengthen their connection to tradition. Throughout the campus, ECU nurtures a sense of belonging and community. Whether making friends by joining clubs, participating in the students’ union or attending inspiring events, you’ll form life-long connections with peers and industry luminaries.

Student well-being is highly important to ECU. In addition to counselling services, the school offers a comprehensive range of wellness programs designed to alleviate stress and elevate students’ success and well-being across seven dimensions: emotional, psychological, physical, financial, environmental, cultural, and social. From meditating in the wellness lounge to experiencing the benefits of dog therapy, ECU is ready to support unique health and well-being needs.

Ready to Ignite Your Creativity?

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just beginning your creative exploration, Emily Carr University of Art + Design offers a supportive community where you can hone your skills, expand your horizons, and make your mark on the world. Step into a world of wonder and possibility—welcome to Emily Carr.

Visit ecuad.ca to learn more about Emily Carr University of Art + Design and start your creative journey today.