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 programme 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 programme 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.

A new pathway for students

The programme will welcome both new applicants and students transferring from existing programmes. 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 programmes, which also include its Master of Fine Arts in Craft Media (MFA).

Students in the programme will build their creative practice, entrepreneurial thinking and industry awareness alongside internationally recognised educators and practising creatives in a multidisciplinary environment.

A distinctive programme 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 programme in Alberta and the prairie provinces to combine studio practice with creative industries education.

Skills that transfer across industries

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 specialised 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.

Marking a centennial milestone

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.

How to learn more and apply

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 programme 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.