Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) is pleased to announce a new undergraduate degree, the Bachelor of Creative Industries (BCI). Applications are now open for students to begin the program in Fall 2026. The BCI degree combines studio-based art and design education with entrepreneurship, innovation and industry experience to prepare graduates for careers in today’s evolving creative economy.
Students will develop creative, entrepreneurial and digital skills, allowing them to thrive in industries that drive innovation and cultural impact. The new program reflects the growing importance of creative industries to Alberta’s cultural and economic landscape and the need for graduates who can apply creative thinking across sectors.
“The BCI builds on the strengths that define AUArts — deep studio learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and a culture of experimentation. By integrating creative practice with entrepreneurial and industry-focused learning, we are creating new opportunities for students to develop sustainable and impactful creative careers.”
- Dr. Janis Goldie, President and CEO
A new pathway for students
The program will welcome both new applicants and students transferring from existing programs. As AUArts’ third undergraduate degree, the BCI complements the existing Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Design (BDes) degrees and expands the University’s academic programs, which also include its Master of Fine Arts in Craft Media (MFA).
Students in the program will build their creative practice, entrepreneurial thinking and industry awareness alongside internationally recognized educators and practicing creatives in a multidisciplinary environment.
“Students in the Bachelor of Creative Industries will develop the skills to prepare them for a wide range of professional pursuits, combining work experience, critical and creative thinking and transferrable knowledge with the benefits of AUArts’ unique studio-based learning environment.
- Dr. Dawn Johnston, Vice President, Academic
A distinctive program in Western Canada
Built on multidisciplinary studio-based learning — where students learn by making, experimenting and working closely with professional artists and designers — the Bachelor of Creative Industries at AUArts is the only four-year degree of its kind in Western Canada, and the only program in Alberta and the prairie provinces to combine studio practice with creative industries education.
“Alberta’s government is proud to support innovative programs like the Bachelor of Creative Industries, which prepare students with the creative, entrepreneurial and technical skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy. By bridging art, design and industry, this program will help grow Alberta’s creative sector and ensure graduates are ready to contribute to communities and industries across the province.”
- Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education
Graduates of the Bachelor of Creative Industries will be equipped to apply transferable creative and entrepreneurial skills across industries, contributing to the arts, business and community sectors. As technology, economies and society shift, critical and creative thinking, design and innovation expertise, and highly specialized hands-on skills are increasingly valuable. AUArts’ BCI graduates will be uniquely positioned to navigate challenges and impact change at a provincial, national and global level.
“The Bachelor of Creative Industries reflects AUArts’ commitment to preparing students not only as exceptional artists and designers, but as creative leaders and innovators. This program will empower graduates to shape the future of the creative economy and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”
- Adrian Stimson, Chair of the Alberta University of the Arts Board of Governors
The Ministry of Advanced Education’s approval of the BCI also comes as AUArts celebrates its centennial, marking a century of creativity and leadership in art, craft and design education. Since its founding in 1926, AUArts has been dedicated to the development and expansion of creativity and technical skills.
The four-year BCI degree is for students looking to build careers as innovators across the arts, business and community sectors. AUArts is uniquely positioned to support students navigating today’s rapidly evolving world, as Alberta's sole institution dedicated to art, craft and design education. Graduates of the BCI program will be prepared to take on roles in digital and media production, brand and marketing strategy, creative entrepreneurship, design and innovation strategy, arts and culture industry leadership and more.
Prospective and current students interested in the Bachelor of Creative Industries can learn more and apply at auarts.ca. Applications will be accepted until July 1, 2026.
