The creative sector is critical to British Columbia’s economy. In 2022 alone, the creative sector in BC generated $6.7 billion in total gross domestic product (GDP). Whether it’s finding ways to display data for executives, creating packaging for in-demand products, creating a new app or video game, or putting the finishing touches on content for streaming, now is the time to be a part of the creative sector – and BCIT is here to help you design the career of your dreams.
At the School of Business + Media at BCIT, there are seven programs in Digital Arts, Media and Design that will help you get there:
1. Graphic Design
If you want to fast-track your path to a graphic design job, the Graphic Design Foundations Associate Certificate can be completed through BCIT Flexible Learning. These graphic design courses are a “career boot-camp” to help you build a toolkit with digital design, composition, and creative software skills. These graphic design courses are a “career boot-camp” to help you build a toolkit with digital design, composition, and creative software skills.
Take your design skills further with the Graphic Design Certificate as you learn the full creative process—from concept to completion. Explore typography, brand identity, UI/UX, and corporate communications using current design tools and industry practices. This blended program can be completed full-time in 45 weeks, or part-time (Flexible Learning) at your own pace, preparing you for a professional career in graphic design and visual communication.
Ready to level up? The Diploma in Graphic Design and Interactive Media (GDIM) goes beyond traditional graphic design with training in UI/UX, web and design, design thinking, motion graphics, packaging design, experiential design, and art direction. This program includes an internship and a dedicated course—Interactive Media Technologies—where you’ll explore emerging tools and trends to stay ahead in the field.
2. Technical Arts
Do you have a talent for balancing your artistic abilities with programming skills? Businesses place high value on visionaries who can bring together the creative and technical aspects of a project, and that’s the focus of our Advanced Diploma in Technical Arts at BCIT.
Full-time students can complete this program in just one year, with options for part-time and weekend courses as well. You’ll be learning from the best in the business, with industry professionals delivering courses that are designed in tandem with EA Games, Imageworks, and The Coalition.
3. 3D Modeling, Art, and Animation
If you aspire to help build the next video game sensation or work on exciting film and television projects, the full-time 3D Modeling, Art, and Animation diploma is a strong starting point. Over 18 months, you’ll develop practical skills in 3D animation and visual effects while bringing your creative ideas to life.
By the end of the program, you’ll have built a portfolio and demo reel that reflects your growth and readiness to enter the games, film and animation industry.
4. Digital Design and Development
Do you know how to use JavaScript? What about HTML or CSS? For lots of students with an arts background, programming and coding languages can seem like another world—but in the Digital Design and Development Diploma program, you’ll discover that envisioning a work of art and coding a great new app are both creatively engaging, and you have what it takes to do both. During your two years in the full-time program, you’ll gain experience in motion graphics, user experience and interface design, and business and digital media platforms. Not to mention, by building a portfolio, you’ll be equipped for the workplace long before you leave BCIT.
5. Graphic Communications
Graphic designers and production artists do a lot of work digitally, but the world of print is also thriving. These high-valued professionals work across a broad spectrum of visual media, both online and offline. And with a wide selection of state-of-the-art imaging technology, BCIT is the place to train for a variety of graphic design jobs. With focused areas of study and faculty who are industry professionals, the two-year, full-time Graphic Communications diploma program gives you the tools you need to succeed in print, production, and digital design.
6. New Media Design and Web Development
What are the most sought-after skills in business today? So many of them depend on design—creating engaging digital experiences, designing and coding user-friendly websites and apps, building on-brand multimedia experiences, and crafting effective social media campaigns. Professionals with these capabilities have boundless prospects.
The New Media Design and Web Development diploma is a favourite among students looking to develop both creative and technical skills. The 18-month, full-time program enables you to master interactive media solutions, build a digital portfolio for future employers and clients, and embark on an exciting nine-week practicum.
7. Bachelor of Creative Industries
Get ready for a leadership role in creative industries as a Director, Producer, Studio Head, or Creative/Artistic Director, or simply learn to lead more creatively. Unique in Western Canada, this specialized degree offers management-level training in the areas of critical thinking, strategic management, creativity, innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, business incubation, law and ethics, digital communication, and emerging technical trends.
Start a career in the creative industries
Graduates from programs in the Digital Arts, Media, and Design area are job-ready with in-demand skills in animation, visual effects, interactive media, communication, web design, and graphic production. The hands-on and industry focus of each program prepare graduates for a dynamic and interactive career across gaming studios, digital and print media outlets, web development companies, and design agencies.
Explore program options in Digital Arts, Media, and Design to help shape your creative career.