Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) in Vancouver has recently announced a brand new program where creativity and digital aptitude combine; it is called the Entertainment Arts program and contains different disciplines.
KPU: An Innovative University
KPU’s philosophy is that they are a place where thought meets action. This means they value theoretical information as much as hands-on experience. Students at KPU will have the opportunity to have a well-rounded education, including group projects, guest speakers, and international studies. KPU has many programs to offer, so make sure to check them all out and see what’s in store for you at KPU.
KPU’s Newest Program: Entertainment Arts
Those who are looking to have a career in entertainment arts can’t miss this opportunity at KPU to study digital art. In partnership with the Centre for Entertainment Arts, KPU has launched a comprehensive and advanced curriculum. You’ll get to learn everything there is about tackling the modern world of digital art and how you can turn it into your career.
Why Study Entertainment Arts at KPU
KPU employs only the best and most well-experienced instructors, and the Entertainment Arts program is no different. Not only will the instructors teach you basic art skills, but they’ll equip you with knowledge on building your portfolio and developing your network. You’ll be guaranteed to finish this program with the means to jump right into the industry or to further your education.
Foundation in Entertainment Arts
KPU’s foundations program is designed for people who are looking for a fresh start. It doesn’t matter whether you just finished high school or are looking for a career change. When you finish KPU’s art foundations, you’ll have a finished portfolio that will prepare you for your next step in the art industry.
Advanced 3D Animation and Modelling
This is a two-year program where you’ll be starting from the ground up. You’ll start with basic drawing principles and by the end of the program, you’ll be able to create a polished composition. Topics that are covered in this program include body mechanics, cloth physics, and surface modeling.
Advanced VFX
Level up your digital art skills with KPU’s VFX program. Students will learn about the thought process that goes behind visual effects and that certain aspects have to be considered before filming even begins. Students will graduate with the knowledge to work in the game or the film industry.
Advanced Game Development
Much like their VFX program, students will have the opportunity to learn technical knowledge and applied design specifically in video games. From coming up with a story for a game to actually implementing will all be part of the program.
Admission and Tuition
KPU conveniently has a tuition estimator and what you take could change the amount of tuition you pay. For Entertainment Arts, international students could pay about $11,500CAD per semester. That includes the base tuition, student fees, and medical insurance.
As for admission requirements, the main thing Entertainment Arts is searching for is a portfolio and proof of English proficiency. If you don’t have a portfolio, the only option you’ll have is to take the Foundation’s program and then further your education from there.
Information Sessions
KPU is holding information sessions for those who aren’t sure if this is the program for them. It’ll be the chance for interested students to ask questions about the program or portfolio and admission requirements. They are online sessions so you don’t have to be in Vancouver to attend.
Keep in mind that these are set in Vancouver’s time zone.
Apply Now
KPU is still accepting applications for their September intake. The hard deadline is July 1st at 11:59 pm. If you miss this date or already know that you won’t be able to get all your documents together in time, you can apply for the January intake. It closes on November 1st.
What happens after I graduate?
These kinds of art programs typically present their students with two options upon graduation.
More Education
KPU only offers diploma-level programs in this area so many students apply to transfer to universities to get their Bachelor’s. Alternatively, if you take KPU’s foundations course, you can take that as a prerequisite for any of their other advanced programs.
Jump into the Digital Art Workforce
Since you’ll be equipped with the knowledge on how to build your own portfolio, you can make one and start applying and presenting it at job openings. There are many studios here in Vancouver since it’s known as Hollywood North. The digital art industry has many available opportunities such as concept artists, animators, and VFX artists, to name a few.
Sources: KPU Entertainment Arts KPU Admission Deadlines KPU Tuition Estimator
