Course catalogue

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.  

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.

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

REREQUISITE Acrylic Painting Basics    

INSTRUCTOR Lori Lukasewich  

Build on your foundation in acrylic painting, with the opportunity to deepen your skills and explore subject matter of your own choosing. You will receive individualized guidance as you refine your technique, strengthen your compositions, and expand your understanding of core painting principles. With an emphasis on personal expression, your instructor will support you in developing a unique visual style and a more confident artistic voice. This course is ideal for those ready to move beyond the basics and focus on more independent, self-directed work. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.   

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

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. 

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. 

 

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.

Painting is visual communication where ideas, emotions, and personal experiences are expressed through colour, form, and composition. You will receive guided projects that emphasize the core principles of design through painting from still lifes, landscapes, and self-portraits as you develop and hone foundational technical and conceptual skills. Work in acrylic paint, learning and understanding its properties and handling while experimenting with different gel mediums and processes. In addition to your studio practice, you will be introduced to key movements in painting history to better understand how contemporary work connects to artistic traditions. This is for motivated students and supports the development of a personal painting style while fostering critical thinking, creative growth, and disciplined studio habits. 

Painting is visual communication where ideas, emotions, and personal experiences are expressed through colour, form, and composition. You will receive guided projects that emphasize the core principles of design through painting from still lifes, landscapes, and self-portraits as you develop and hone foundational technical and conceptual skills. Work in acrylic paint, learning and understanding its properties and handling while experimenting with different gel mediums and processes. In addition to your studio practice, you will be introduced to key movements in painting history to better understand how contemporary work connects to artistic traditions. This is for motivated students and supports the development of a personal painting style while fostering critical thinking, creative growth, and disciplined studio habits. 

Develop your technical and creative skills in digital photography while learning to use the manual controls of your DSLR or mirrorless camera allowing you to intentionally shape color, light, and create mood. You’ll receive guided prompts and hands-on projects to explore landscapes, portraits, and documentary approaches as you capture moments, emotions, and stories from the world around you. Instruction emphasizes composition, lighting, and visual storytelling, along with an introduction to professional workflows using Adobe Lightroom. Gain experience refining, editing, printing, and presenting your work, in a supportive studio environment. Designed for motivated students and encourages the development of a personal photographic voice while building a strong foundation for post-secondary level work. 

Develop your technical and creative skills in digital photography while learning to use the manual controls of your DSLR or mirrorless camera allowing you to intentionally shape color, light, and create mood. You’ll receive guided prompts and hands-on projects to explore landscapes, portraits, and documentary approaches as you capture moments, emotions, and stories from the world around you. Instruction emphasizes composition, lighting, and visual storytelling, along with an introduction to professional workflows using Adobe Lightroom. Gain experience refining, editing, printing, and presenting your work, in a supportive studio environment. Designed for motivated students and encourages the development of a personal photographic voice while building a strong foundation for post-secondary level work. 

Use strong visual narratives to communicate ideas, experiences, or points of view through the combination of drawing, text, and sequencing. Study both comics and graphic novels—from retelling histories to parodies to fiction—and learn the fundamentals of storytelling. Develop an original storyline and characters, explore narrative basics, and practice hand-drawn illustration techniques for sequential art. Emphasis is placed on design principles, pacing, and clarity for an impactful narrative. Students refine both observational drawing skills and imaginative approaches to character and world building as they produce their own short graphic narrative. You will also be introduced to the contemporary graphic novel field, including discussions of professional practice. Designed for motivated students considering further study in visual storytelling and encourages disciplined creative development and a deeper understanding of this influential medium.  

Use strong visual narratives to communicate ideas, experiences, or points of view through the combination of drawing, text, and sequencing. Study both comics and graphic novels—from retelling histories to parodies to fiction—and learn the fundamentals of storytelling. Develop an original storyline and characters, explore narrative basics, and practice hand-drawn illustration techniques for sequential art. Emphasis is placed on design principles, pacing, and clarity for an impactful narrative. Students refine both observational drawing skills and imaginative approaches to character and world building as they produce their own short graphic narrative. You will also be introduced to the contemporary graphic novel field, including discussions of professional practice. Designed for motivated students considering further study in visual storytelling and encourages disciplined creative development and a deeper understanding of this influential medium.  

Learn a number of foundational cold and hot metalworking techniques as you become familiar with jewellery-making tools and studio practices in our fully equipped space. You will develop skills in sawing, filing, soldering, forming, and finishing metal through a series of assignments as you progress from flat constructions to three-dimensional wearable jewellery pieces and sculptural works. Instruction focuses on precision, problem-solving, and the use of surface treatments, texture, and pattern to support strong design concepts. Students need to be self-motivated with an interest in craftsmanship, a respect for safe studio practice, and have strong decision-making skills. 

Learn a number of foundational cold and hot metalworking techniques as you become familiar with jewellery-making tools and studio practices in our fully equipped space. You will develop skills in sawing, filing, soldering, forming, and finishing metal through a series of assignments as you progress from flat constructions to three-dimensional wearable jewellery pieces and sculptural works. Instruction focuses on precision, problem-solving, and the use of surface treatments, texture, and pattern to support strong design concepts. Students need to be self-motivated with an interest in craftsmanship, a respect for safe studio practice, and have strong decision-making skills. 

INSTRUCTOR Rachelle Ymay Skilling

Use your voice and tell your story through comic arts and turn your experiences into meaningful visual narratives. Your instructor will provide guided prompts, individual and group discussions, and constructive feedback to help you shape personal memories, moments, and reflections into short comics. Emphasis will be on authenticity, clarity, and emotional resonance. Build confidence in combining image and text to tell honest, engaging, everyday stories. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

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.  

INSTRUCTOR Raeann Cheung

Experience the magic of shooting black and white film and the anticipation of developing your images in the darkroom. Begin with mastering basic film camera functions before you are introduced to the complete analog process. Learn how to load film onto reels and canisters in total darkness, hand-process your negatives, and use an enlarger to create prints on light-sensitive paper in a traditional darkroom. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.   

INSTRUCTOR : Shea Proulx  

Drawing plants and fruit from life requires close observation and strong hand-eye coordination. Learn how to refine your perceptual skills through a series of focused, studio-based assignments. You will also be introduced to colour theory and learn how to use pencil crayons effectively to achieve rich, vibrant results. Class discussions and critiques will support your development and help you grow as a confident, detail-oriented observer and artist. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.   

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.  

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.  

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.  

PREREQUISITE: Basic ceramic experience; this is not a beginner course

Instructor Amy Bouchard  

Participate in a unique ceramics experience and make work to be fired in an atmospheric soda kiln. Discover the dynamic, unpredictable surfaces that are distinctive to soda firing as you develop a focused body of work—throwing, sculpting, or hand building and learn how to prepare final works for the soda kiln. You will take part in the full firing process, including glazing, wadding, loading the kiln, and mixing and introducing soda during the firing. There will be a single kiln firing, and the last class meeting will be a kiln opening, group celebration, and studio cleanup. Please review the course supply list online and come prepared for the first class.  

Instructor Amy Bouchard

Learn foundational skills of wheel throwing through hands-on instruction and guided practice. Whether you are a beginner and returning student, you will build confidence and increase your comfort level at the wheel as you create one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces through a series of simple, structured assignments. You will also learn the full process of finishing your work—glazing and firing your pieces to bring them to life in their final form. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

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.  

INSTRUCTOR: Zach Schuster

Create unique comic characters through a series of thumbnail sketches that you develop into final drawings for a comic book or graphic novel. Develop a personal style that becomes identifiable with you as you hone your drawing and communication skills. Use a variety of media, including pen and ink, marker, pencil, and water-based colour to complete your comics. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

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. 

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.  

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.  

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.  

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. 

INSTRUCTOR Zach Schuster

Explore the history and evolution of board games as you gain an understanding of the importance of the visual design of your game, which includes, artwork, layout, and game pieces. You will also figure out your game mechanics (how it’s played), player interactions, and how to balance the complexity with the fun. Discuss how to create prototypes and game-play tests to refine your game before you are ready to take it to market. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

PREREQUISITE: Previous art experience, and students must bring their own laptop, tablet, iPad, etc.  

INSTRUCTOR Nicole Gruszecki  

Explore the creative and technical foundations of digital pattern design using Procreate on iPad. Learn how to build seamless repeats, work with layers and brushes effectively, and apply essential colour theory principles to create dynamic, versatile patterns. You will be guided through a series of exercises, where you will experiment with surface design applications for different uses, including textiles, stationery, and digital products, while developing your own distinctive style. Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.   

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. 

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