Course catalogue
Discover all active Continuing Education courses currently available for registration.
When you're ready to register, find your desired course or program, add it to your cart and follow the steps to complete registration.
Important: Please register using an account in the name of the person participating in the course.
Located in Calgary, Alberta.
For questions or help registering please view our guide or contact us.
Micro-Credentials
12-week, online, self-directed courses to develop and demonstrate specific skills.
Micro-CredentialsPersonal Interest
Step into the studio with an array of art-based courses in design, painting, drawing, jewellery, ceramics, glassblowing and more...
Personal interest coursesSummer Camps
Fill your child's summer with creative activities with our week long summer camps for kids and teens.
Summer Teen courses & kids campsMissed Online Registration? It's not too late!
Email coned@auarts.ca or call 403.284.7640
Our team can provide assisted enrollment (subject to capacity) up to 1-week after the first class meeting. Please note, assisted enrollment requests made after the registration deadline will be subject to additional fees and late charges. We encourage students to register online and on-time to avoid additional fees and secure their spot.
Continuing education course listing
36 of 70 results
100 Drawings in a Week
INSTRUCTOR: Mark Vazquez Mackay
Get really creative and push yourself to complete 100 drawing in a week. You’ll improve your drawing skills through your sustained drawing practice as your instructor helps you move from concentrating on mostly formal issues to more conceptual ones. Be introduced to past and current artists who have strong drawing practices and participate in individual and group critiques, which will aide in your artist growth. All levels welcome. Please see your recommended supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first day.
3D Modelling with Blender
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
This Micro Credential introduces learners to the powerful 3D modeling capabilities of Blender. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, create their own models, explore the basics of animation, particle effects, material creation, and exporting models for use in other software such as Unreal Engine. Learners will engage in a variety of assessments including designing a 3D model and creating a simple animation.
3D Software Fundamentals using Unity
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
This Micro Credential provides the foundation for Unity, one of the most popular game development platforms in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring game developer, designer, or hobbyist, this course will take you from beginner to confidently creating simple 2D and 3D projects. Through hands-on practice, you will learn how to navigate Unity's interface, build and manipulate 3D objects, apply materials, and create basic game mechanics using C# scripting.
3D Software Fundamentals using Unreal Engine
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
3D Software Fundamentals using Unreal Engine is designed to introduce learners to the fundamentals of Unreal Engine, one of the most popular and powerful game development platforms. This micro-credential is ideal for aspiring game developers, designers, and anyone interested in creating 3D content and interactive experiences. Students will learn the basics of Unreal Engine, from initial download and setup to the development of their first project. The Micro Credential covers essential topics such as scene creation, geometry, lighting, materials, and the use of Blueprints for coding. By the end of the course, learners will have the skills to create their own basic 3D scenes and understand the best practices of working with Unreal Engine to make engaging interactive experiences
Abstract Painting Week
INSTRUCTOR: Malcolm Mooney
Pre-requisite: Acrylic Painting I or previous painting experience
Take your abstract painting practice to the next level and spend an uninterrupted week in the studio! Work alongside other abstract painters and build community under the guidance of your instructor as you produce new work or explore a new technique or approach to what you’ve been doing. You will participate in individual and group critiques throughout the week. Acrylic paint will be the medium used as it is flexible and dries quickly. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.
After Effects Micro-credential
Please Note: Start & End dates refer to open & closing of registration, NOT the start or end of the course
In this course, you'll learn the fundamentals of After Effects and how to create simple animation techniques using the software.
You will be introduced to the basic interface, and gain an understanding of how to create compositions, import assets, in addition to learning compositing and colour grading principles. You will also learn basic motion graphics techniques by animating shapes and text, and how to create movement and keyframes alongside an audio track.
About Micros:
- Register & start WHENEVER
- Self paced & learner driven
- No scheduled class
- 3 Months to Finish
Animate It! 2D! Jul 20 - 24
Work in small teams in the AUArts animation suite to create a visual story that you tell through a unique cast of characters that you bring to life through original drawings to create a stop-motion animation. Learn how to convey movement as you create a character-based narrative. Once all is done, sit back and watch them on a big screen. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Animation Capstone I Micro-Credential
Please Note: Start & End dates refer to open & closing of registration, NOT the start or end of a course.
The Animation Capstone serves as the culmination of your learning journey through the nine Micro Credentials that make up the Animation Professional Certificate. It provides an opportunity to integrate the skills and knowledge you’ve gained into a professional-level project that demonstrates your expertise in animation. The total project should take approximately 40 student notional hours to complete. Students have three months to submit their final project.
Animation Studio! Jul 27 – 31
Discover the fun and wacky world of non-digital animation using more experimental techniques of cutouts, stop motion, and pixilation. You will produce your own short animation project individually or in a small group. Watch short video clips for inspiration and to get your creative juices flowing.
NOTE: this is not a computer animation course; you will use digital technologies to record and edit your animation.
Beyond the Interface: Introduction to 3D Design | Micro Credential
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
Beyond the Interface: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Design Essentials is designed to equip learners with the knowledge and skills in creating user-centered AR/VR experiences. This Micro Credential is perfect for designers, developers, and anyone keen on enhancing their understanding of interaction through effective AR/VR design principles. Learners will engage in a variety of assessments including prototyping, user testing exercises and design documentation.
Ceramics Studio! Jul 13 – 17
Get your hands dirty in the ceramic’s studio! Focus will be on hand building and learning good construction practices and techniques to create functional and sculptural pieces. You will also get introduced to different surface treatments, including decoration with slip and underglazes, and firing. Work through projects designed to give you foundational skill-building practice. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.
*Work will be ready for pick-up 2-3 weeks after the last day of camp.
Ceramics Studio! Jul 20 – 24
Get your hands dirty in the ceramic’s studio! Focus will be on hand building and learning good construction practices and techniques to create functional and sculptural pieces. You will also get introduced to different surface treatments, including decoration with slip and underglazes, and firing. Work through projects designed to give you foundational skill-building practice. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.
*Work will be ready for pick-up 2-3 weeks after the last day of camp.
Ceramics Studio! Jul 27 – 31
Get your hands dirty in the ceramic’s studio! Focus will be on hand building and learning good construction practices and techniques to create functional and sculptural pieces. You will also get introduced to different surface treatments, including decoration with slip and underglazes, and firing. Work through projects designed to give you foundational skill-building practice. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.
*Work will be ready for pick-up 2-3 weeks after the last day of camp.
Client Liaison and Relationship Management
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
This Micro Credential is designed to enhance the capabilities of professionals in managing client relationships and fostering effective communication channels. Suitable for individuals across all sectors, this micro-credential focuses on practical strategies and psychological insights that facilitate strong, sustainable client connections. Learners will engage in a variety of assessments including written assignments and a detailed project plan.
Community Outreach and Volunteer Engagement
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
Community Outreach and Volunteer Engagement provides learners with the tools and knowledge needed to foster meaningful community engagement and effectively manage volunteer relationships. The Micro Credential focuses on defining clear objectives, identifying target communities, creating strategic engagement plans, conducting outreach activities, and building long-term partnerships to obtain volunteers. Additionally, it emphasizes strategies for recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers, addressing their wellness and motivation, and fostering trust.
Crazy for Cats! Aug 4 – 7
Are you crazy for cats Join us and other cat crazy kids for the week and talk about different breeds and their characteristics as you draw, paint, crafts, and sculpt cats—even create a cozy cat diorama! Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Crazy for Cats! Jul 6– 10
Are you crazy for cats Join us and other cat crazy kids for the week and talk about different breeds and their characteristics as you draw, paint, crafts, and sculpt cats—even create a cozy cat diorama! Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Crazy for Cats!! Jul 20 – 24
Are you crazy for cats Join us and other cat crazy kids for the week and talk about different breeds and their characteristics as you draw, paint, crafts, and sculpt cats—even create a cozy cat diorama! Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Data Visualization | Micro-Credential
Note: This course follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all course content from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
In this course, you'll cover the basic skills and techniques necessary to create attractive and meaningful data visualization graphics for any application.
Learn semiotics, vector creation, basic cartography, data interpretation, data visualization and simplification and how to design easy to read graphics for a wide array of viewers. There will be four projects aimed at furthering your understanding of core concepts and various skills tests throughout. Learners will also gain the ability to perceive how data is being presented to them with a more critical eye. All projects will be reviewed by a qualified assessor who will provide feedback and insights on assignments.
Developing Impactful Communications
Note: This follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all content and assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
Developing Impactful Communications focuses on the art and science of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences. Learners will structure communications that evoke emotion, build connections, and convey key messages effectively. Learners will be taught how to tailor their communication to various platforms and purposes, from branding and marketing to advocacy. Practical exercises and real-world applications will be emphasized.
Digital Lab for Animators Micro-Credential
Please Note: Start & End dates refer to open & closing of registration, NOT the start or end of a course.
In this course, you'll be introduced to software used in digital animation: Photoshop, After Effects, Premiere, & Toon Boom Harmony.
Explore the differences between traditional, hand drawn, & digital animation. Learn to use each program on its own and with each other while practicing to use essential tools. Demonstrate mastery of basic skills and technical understanding through exciting projects and have your work evaluated by experts.
About Micros:
- Register & start WHENEVER
- Self paced & learner driven
- No scheduled classes
- 3 Months to Finish
Draw Cartoons! Aug 4 – 7
If you love creating original, quirky characters, then you will want to Draw Cartoons! Look at lots of examples and learn how to tell a story, as you create and draw characters, and learn proper proportions of the human figure and different animals. Work on your own, unique cartooning style that you can continue to build upon. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Draw Cartoons! Jul 13 – 17
If you love creating original, quirky characters, then you will want to Draw Cartoons! Look at lots of examples and learn how to tell a story, as you create and draw characters, and learn proper proportions of the human figure and different animals. Work on your own, unique cartooning style that you can continue to build upon. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Draw Cartoons! Jul 27 – 31
If you love creating original, quirky characters, then you will want to Draw Cartoons! Look at lots of examples and learn how to tell a story, as you create and draw characters, and learn proper proportions of the human figure and different animals. Work on your own, unique cartooning style that you can continue to build upon. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Drawing for Animators Micro-Credential
Please Note: Start and end dates refer to open & closing of registration, not the start or end of the course.
Use drawing as a tool of communication as you explore the medium, with an emphasis on obtaining a visual understanding of mass, gesture, the human figure, weight, and balance.
Work through conceptual, aesthetic, and technical approaches for your projects.
About Micros:
- Register and start whenever.
- Self-paced and learner-driven
- No scheduled classes
- 3 Months to Finish
Drawing Studio! Jul 6 – 10
Focus on improving your drawing skills and drawing from observation while you experiment with different types of drawing media including graphite, charcoal, and conte crayons. You will continue to improve your understanding of the art elements and principles as you focus on composition and a variety of drawing techniques. Think about what you are communicating with your drawings and develop your ability to speak about your work during critique session each class.
Drawing Studio! Aug 4 – 7
Focus on improving your drawing skills and drawing from observation while you experiment with different types of drawing media, including graphite, charcoal, and conte crayons. You will continue to improve your understanding of the art elements and principles as you focus on composition and a variety of drawing techniques. Think about what you are communicating with your drawings and develop your ability to speak about your work during the critique session each class.
Drawing Studio! Jul13 – 17
Focus on improving your drawing skills and drawing from observation while you experiment with different types of drawing media, including graphite, charcoal, and conte crayons. You will continue to improve your understanding of the art elements and principles as you focus on composition and a variety of drawing techniques. Think about what you are communicating with your drawings and develop your ability to speak about your work during critique session each class.
Effective Communication in Event Planning | Micro Credential
Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.
Effective Communication in Event Planning is designed for those working in roles that need competence in occasional event planning practices. In this Micro Credential, learners will explore the steps needed to develop an effective branding and communication strategy to attract a diverse and inclusive audience of event attendees.
This competency-based Micro Credential focuses on specific skills and knowledge proficiency. It can take learners up to 24 hours to complete and demonstrate proficiency; however, learners with more developed competencies in this area might complete in a shorter period.
Enchanted Forest Fairies! Aug 4 – 7
Let nature be your inspiration as you design an enchanted woodland world filled with spotted mushrooms, magical flowers, and fairies… and then bring it to life! Start by drawing and painting your own fairy creature, then create a 3D version using mixed media and natural materials that you forage throughout the week. Build a home for your fairy, craft a magical forest companion, and create crystals and tiny scrolls with secret messages. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Enchanted Forest Fairies! Jul 6 – 10.
Let nature be your inspiration as you design an enchanted woodland world filled with spotted mushrooms, magical flowers, and fairies… and then bring it to life! Start by drawing and painting your own fairy creature, then create a 3D version using mixed media and natural materials that you forage throughout the week. Build a home for your fairy, craft a magical forest companion, and create crystals and tiny scrolls with secret messages. Supplies are included in fees for kids’ camps, unless otherwise noted.
Engaging and Managing Event Partners | Micro Credential
Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.
Engaging and Managing Event Partners is designed for those working in roles that need competence in occasional event planning practices. In this Micro Credential, learners will explore the steps needed to establish productive relationships between event teams and partners through an inspiring event planning culture.
This competency-based Micro Credential focuses on specific skills and knowledge proficiency. It can take learners up to 24 hours to complete and demonstrate proficiency; however, learners with more developed competencies in this area might complete in a shorter period.
Enterprise and Studio Practices for Animators | Micro-Credential
Please Note: Start and end dates refer to open & close of registration, not the start or end of the course.
Examine professional projects and responsibilities animators may face in their practice, including CV and portfolio assembly, grant writing, project budgeting, and pitch packages.
Cover concepts like festival submissions, contracts, and concerns associated with starting an artistic practice in animation.
About Micros
- Register and start whenever
- Self-paced and learner-driven
- No scheduled classes
- 3 Months to finish
Entrepreneur Essentials for Graphic Design | Micro-Credential
Note: This course follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all course content from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only.
In this course, you'll build on your existing graphic design experience to expand on opportunities in entrepreneurship. Learners will focus on marketing, pricing strategy and execute projects for an effective and sustainable income. This course is designed to equip learners with the materials and tools to effectively run a design practice with hands-on practice that can help build a foundational client base.
About Micros:
- Register and start WHENEVER
- Self paced and learner driven
- No scheduled classes
- 3 Months to Finish
Faces + Figures Studio! Jul 20 – 24
Learn how to draw the human face and figure from direct observation. You will study proper proportions of both the face and the figure as you test a variety of drawing techniques. Start each class with quick gesture drawings to get warmed up and then move into longer, sustained poses for a complete, detailed rendering. Participate in daily critique sessions at the end of each class.
Faces + Figures Studio! Jul 27 - 31
Learn how to draw the human face and figure from direct observation. You will study proper proportions of both the face and the figure as you test a variety of drawing techniques. Start each class with quick gesture drawings to get warmed up and then move into longer, sustained poses for a complete, detailed rendering. Participate in daily critique sessions at the end of each class.