| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Formerly Known As:
Alberta College of Art + Design (ACAD) — became a university in 2019
Type:
Public, specialized art and design university
Location:
1407 14 Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4R3, Canada
Located adjacent to SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) and accessible via Calgary Transit
Student Population:
~1,200 undergraduate students
Small, studio-focused community
Accreditation:
AUArts is an accredited public university and a member of the Alberta Post-Secondary system. Degrees are recognized across Canada and internationally.
Majors include:
Drawing
Painting
Photography
Print Media
Media Arts
Fibre
Ceramics
Sculpture
Glass
Jewellery and Metals
Focus in Visual Communication Design (Graphic Design, UX/UI, Branding)
AUArts has announced plans to develop graduate-level programs in creative disciplines.
Extended studies and non-credit art programs for the public and professionals
Emphasis on studio-based learning, with access to state-of-the-art workshops, labs, and exhibition spaces
Home to Illingworth Kerr Gallery and various student-run galleries
Strong ties to Calgary’s creative industries and public arts scene
Alumni include Joni Mitchell and many acclaimed Canadian artists and designers
AUArts is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), eligible for study permits
International students are welcomed with orientation programs, academic support, and community connections
Graduates of AUArts programs may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
AUArts offers two main undergraduate degrees, each with a range of majors or areas of concentration:
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Focus: Studio-based, hands-on training in traditional and contemporary fine arts
Majors/Areas of Study:
Drawing
Painting
Photography
Print Media
Media Arts (video, sound, digital installations)
Ceramics
Fibre
Glass
Jewellery & Metals
Sculpture
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Focus: Communication design, graphic design, branding, UX/UI, motion graphics, and typography
Specializations may include:
Graphic and Communication Design
Interaction Design / UX
Branding and Identity
Packaging and Publication Design
All first-year students complete a shared Foundation year covering:
2D and 3D design principles
Drawing
Art history
Digital literacy
This year is designed to build essential creative and technical skills before declaring a major.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Drawing |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Painting |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Photography |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Print Media |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Media Arts |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Ceramics |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Fibre |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Glass |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Jewellery & Metals |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Sculpture |
4 years |
~$16,000 – $17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Design (BDes) – Visual Communication Design |
4 years |
~$16,500 – $18,000 |
1. Specialized Art & Design Focus
AUArts offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Design (BDes) degrees in a variety of creative disciplines such as painting, sculpture, media arts, graphic design, jewellery, and more. The education is hands-on, studio-intensive, and taught by practicing artists and designers.
2. Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
AUArts is a DLI, meaning international students are eligible to apply for a Canadian Study Permit and may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing their degree.
3. Small Class Sizes & Individual Support
With a student body of around 1,200, AUArts offers personalized learning, close mentorship, and a collaborative, supportive studio environment ideal for international students adjusting to Canadian academic life.
4. International Student Services
Orientation programs for newcomers
Academic advising and counselling
Help with study permits, work eligibility, and housing
Cultural integration events and art exhibitions
5. Diverse and Inclusive Campus Culture
AUArts fosters an open, multicultural atmosphere with students and faculty from various backgrounds. Art and design often reflect global perspectives, and students are encouraged to explore their unique cultural identity in their work.
6. Life in Calgary
Calgary is a safe, clean, and affordable city with easy access to the Rocky Mountains
Students enjoy galleries, artist collectives, and a growing creative economy
International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during studies and full-time during breaks
Decide between Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or Bachelor of Design (BDes)
Select your intended major (e.g., Painting, Photography, Visual Communication Design)
Note: All students begin with a common Foundation year
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma (Grade 12 or equivalent)
Minimum GPA: ~65% overall average (varies by country)
Must include English and other relevant academic subjects
English Language Proficiency:
Required if your first language is not English.
Test |
Minimum Score |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
6.5 overall (no band below 5.5) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
83+ |
|
Duolingo |
115+ |
|
CAEL |
70+ |
Required for all applicants
Typically includes 10–15 original works that demonstrate your creativity, skill, and personal voice
Can include drawings, paintings, photography, graphic design, sculpture, or digital work
Portfolio must be submitted digitally via AUArts' online portal
Apply through ApplyAlberta.ca (Alberta's centralized application system)
Pay the non-refundable application fee (~CAD $110)
Submit required documents:
Transcripts (official or certified copies)
Proof of English language proficiency
Portfolio and artist statement
Applications are reviewed holistically (academics + portfolio)
If accepted, you’ll receive a Letter of Admission
Use your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) to apply for a Canadian Study Permit via IRCC
Prepare supporting documents: passport, financial proof, biometrics, etc.
Arrange housing (AUArts does not have its own residence but shares services with nearby SAIT)
Register for orientation and classes
Plan your travel to Calgary
Intake |
Start Month |
Availability |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake |
September |
Main intake for all programs |
Note: AUArts typically offers only one major intake per year (Fall). Students are advised to apply by early February for the following September start.
Completion of high school (Grade 12 or equivalent) with a minimum average of around 65%
Must meet course-specific requirements, including English language arts
Students from different countries must submit equivalent academic credentials, evaluated individually
Required for students whose first language is not English.
Accepted Test |
Minimum Score |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in each band) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
83+ (minimum 20 in each section) |
|
Duolingo |
115+ |
|
CAEL |
70+ |
|
PTE Academic |
59+ |
All applicants must submit a portfolio of 10–15 original pieces
Work should reflect your artistic interests, technical skill, and creative thinking
A portfolio statement or description of your artistic goals is often required
Minimum age for enrollment is typically 17 years by the start of the program
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Value (USD Equivalent) |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AUArts Entrance Scholarship |
High school applicants with strong academic and artistic portfolios |
~$1,000 – $2,500 |
Automatically considered upon admission; no separate application required |
|
President’s Scholarship for Excellence |
Top new students with exceptional portfolios and academic results |
~$3,000 – $4,000 |
Competitive; awarded to highest-ranked applicants |
|
International Entrance Award |
International students with high school excellence |
~$1,000 – $2,000 |
Limited number; awarded in first year only |
|
Continuing Student Scholarships |
Current students with high GPA and strong studio performance |
~$1,000 – $3,000 |
Based on annual academic review; available from second year onward |
|
External & Donor-Funded Awards |
Varies by donor and department (e.g., media arts, ceramics) |
~$500 – $5,000 |
Application and/or faculty nomination required |
Facility/Option |
Details |
Approx. Cost (USD/Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
1407 14 Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta (shared campus with SAIT Polytechnic) |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Provided through SAIT Residence (next to AUArts); fully furnished, secured, Wi-Fi included |
|
|
– Shared Room (2-bedroom suite) |
Private bedroom in shared suite with shared kitchen and bathroom |
~$5,800 – $6,200 |
|
– Private Studio Suite |
Independent unit with kitchenette and bathroom |
~$7,200 – $8,000 |
|
Meal Plans (Optional) |
Available via SAIT Dining Services (not mandatory for AUArts students) |
~$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Apartments or shared rentals in Calgary near campus |
~$6,000 – $9,000 |
|
Temporary Housing |
Hotels or Airbnb (used during transition period) |
$60 – $100 per night |
|
Campus Facilities |
Studios, workshops, computer labs, Illingworth Kerr Gallery, student lounge, library |
Included in tuition |
|
Public Transportation (U-Pass) |
Unlimited Calgary Transit access with AUArts student ID |
Included in student fees |
AUArts is known for its studio-based learning model, where students spend much of their time working on hands-on projects in spacious, well-equipped studios. Collaboration between disciplines is common—painters work alongside designers, photographers, ceramicists, and multimedia artists, sparking cross-pollination of ideas.
With a student body of around 1,200, AUArts provides a personalized experience. Students form strong relationships with peers and professors, and many participate in student-run collectives, pop-up galleries, and exhibitions. Events like critiques, artist talks, and workshops are regular parts of campus life.
AUArts Students' Association (AUArts SA) represents all students and organizes events, advocacy, and wellness programs
Clubs and collectives include interests like printmaking, zines, LGBTQ+ communities, social justice, and game design
Student-led publications and art shows give you platforms to showcase your work
Students have access to:
Individual studio spaces (in later years)
Fully equipped workshops (wood, metal, printmaking, ceramics, textiles, etc.)
The Illingworth Kerr Gallery, featuring exhibitions by students and professional artists
Shared access to SAIT’s campus amenities, including food services, gym, and residences
AUArts provides:
Academic and mental health counselling
Accessibility services
Career development (e.g., portfolio and résumé support, gallery opportunities)
International student advising
Calgary is a dynamic, affordable city known for its blend of urban culture and natural beauty. Students enjoy:
Access to the Rocky Mountains (only 1.5 hours away)
A thriving local arts scene with galleries, street art, festivals, and artist-run centres
Part-time work opportunities for international students (20 hours/week during semesters)
AUArts encourages students to explore social issues, cultural identity, and community impact through their creative practice. Public exhibitions, collaborations with Calgary’s art institutions, and social-justice-themed art projects are part of the student experience.
All AUArts students take Professional Practices courses as part of their curriculum
Topics include portfolio development, grant writing, contracts, entrepreneurship, and navigating the art/design industry
AUArts offers:
Career workshops and one-on-one advising
Help with resumes, artist CVs, portfolios, and job search strategies
Events on freelancing, starting a studio, or applying for public art commissions
Access to job boards and calls for submissions in arts organizations
While not formalized as co-op programs:
Students often gain experience through internships at galleries, studios, or design firms
AUArts helps connect students with external opportunities, residencies, and grants
Graduates from AUArts often pursue careers such as:
Professional artist or designer (freelance or studio-based)
Illustrator, graphic designer, or UX/UI designer
Gallery assistant or curator
Animator or multimedia creator
Art teacher or community arts coordinator
Entrepreneur in creative industries
Many AUArts alumni also:
Pursue graduate studies (MFA, MDes)
Apply for Canada Council for the Arts grants
Participate in national and international art residencies or exhibitions
International students graduating from AUArts (a public DLI) are eligible for a PGWP, allowing them to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years, gaining valuable industry experience.
The acceptance rate of Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts), Canada is estimated to be moderately selective, typically around 65% to 75%.
Academic Qualifications
A completed high school diploma (or equivalent) with a minimum average of around 65% is required.
Applicants from different educational systems are assessed based on country-specific equivalencies.
Portfolio Quality
The portfolio is a critical component of the application. Strong artistic ability, originality, and creative thinking carry significant weight.
Even students with average academic performance can be admitted with an excellent portfolio.
English Language Proficiency
Required for international students. IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 83+ is typical.
Space Availability
AUArts is a small institution with limited seats per program, so competitive majors (e.g., Visual Communication Design) may be harder to get into.
Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts)
1407 14 Avenue NW
Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4R3
Canada
Situated in Calgary’s Northwest quadrant, adjacent to the SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) campus
Easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including the SAIT/ACAD/Jubilee CTrain station (just a 2-minute walk)
Located near Kensington and Sunnyside, trendy areas known for cafes, galleries, and artist spaces
Shares some services and residence options with SAIT Polytechnic
