Course catalogue

Acrylic paints are so versatile and perfect for those who are interested in building a strong foundation in painting. Learn the essentials of color theory, paint mixing, brushwork, and composition through a series of guided projects, focusing on still life and landscape subjects. Through consistent practice, you will develop your technical skills and gain confidence in your creative abilities, whether you're new to painting or returning to it. 

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

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. 

 

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.   

Explore the fundamentals of ceramics through both wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. Perfect for novices and experienced students alike looking to strengthen your skills. Learn to shape clay using a potter’s wheel as well as hand-forming methods, gaining confidence working with your hands through a series of projects. You will also go over glazing and kiln firing, as you complete the full process of creating finished ceramic pieces. 

Please review the course supply list online and come prepared for the first class .

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 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. 

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

PREREQUISITE:  DSLR cameras ONLY. Take control of your digital camera and elevate your photography skills by moving beyond auto mode.

Instructor: Tracy Elliot

 Get introduced to essential camera functions, including exposure, aperture, and shutter speed, to help you understand how these settings impact your images. Explore composition, lighting, and the use of different lenses as you experiment with creative techniques, under the guidance of your instructor. Work through shooting sessions, file conversion, and digital image management, and receive constructive feedback to refine your skills throughout the course. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

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

Build confidence and core drawing skills through a series of projects designed to sharpen your observation and strengthen your hand-eye coordination. You will focus on the essential elements of drawing—line, shape, value, and composition—and be introduced to a range of media and techniques. Through in-class projects, you will develop your perceptual abilities, gain a deeper understanding of how to see, interpret, and express the world around you through drawing.

 Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

Build confidence and core drawing skills through a series of projects designed to sharpen your observation and strengthen your hand-eye coordination. You will focus on the essential elements of drawing—line, shape, value, and composition—and be introduced to a range of media and techniques. Through in-class projects, you will develop your perceptual abilities, gain a deeper understanding of how to see, interpret, and express the world around you through drawing. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

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. 

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. 

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

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

PREREQUISITE: Previous drawing experience. The human figure offers endless inspiration for artists at every level.

 Work from live models using a range of media to build hands-on studio experience. Develop your skills in gesture drawing, analytical study of form, and creating depth through light and shadow. Focus on mastering perspective, proportion, and diverse drawing techniques to bring the figure to life with accuracy and expression. 

Please see your course supply list online and come prepared for the first class.  

Please Note: This Micro Credential follows an online self-paced format, allowing you 12 weeks to complete all assignments from the date of registration. Start/End dates posted are for internal purposes only. 

Learn essential financial forecasting skills for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Learners will develop sales and expense projections and create balance sheets tailored to their specific industry. You will receive practical examples and a customizable financial planning template for ongoing updates as business conditions evolve.  Prepare comprehensive financial forecasts, understand startup funding needs, and learn strategies for presenting robust financial plans to banks or investors. 

About Micros:

• Register and start WHENEVER
• Self paced and learner driven
• No scheduled classes
• 3 Months to Finish

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 and apply fundamental principles of animation. 

Learn to communicate personality, emotions, & behaviour through short motion assignments, while exploring conceptual, aesthetic, and technical approaches. 

Work in or out of the digital realm; however, all project post-production will be created using digital software. Create projects to demonstrate your mastery of foundational skills & principles, then have your work evaluated by experts. 

About Micros:

• Register and start WHENEVER
• Self paced and learner-driven
• No scheduled classes
• 3 Months to Finish

Learn the basic processes of hot glasswork, in a fully equipped, professional hot shop studio. Focus on solid and simple blown forms in a small class setting giving you plenty of work time and access to your instructor for assistance and coaching. The last class meeting will be for students to learn how to finish off their pieces properly in the coldworking studio and to critique their work. NOTE: ONLY natural fibre clothing (cotton), long pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory in the hot shop at all times. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

Learn the basic processes of hot glasswork, in a fully equipped, professional hot shop studio. Focus on solid and simple blown forms in a small class setting, giving you plenty of work time and access to your instructor for assistance and coaching. The last class meeting will be for students to learn how to finish off their pieces properly in the coldworking studio and to critique their work. NOTE: ONLY natural fibre clothing (cotton), long pants and closed-toe shoes are mandatory in the hot shop at all times. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

PREREQUISITE: previous glassblowing experience. 

Expand your knowledge of hot glasswork as you develop your skills further in a small class setting with lots of individualized instruction. Challenge yourself and try creating different forms and working with colour. Spend the last class meeting will be for students to coldwork only to finish their blown pieces and critique their work. NOTE: ONLY natural fibre clothing (cotton), long pants and closed-toe shoes are always mandatory in the hot shop. Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

Gain an understanding of visual communication design and the role of a graphic designer. Focus on building strong problem-solving and idea-generation skills through sketching, drawing, and hands-on exploration. You will learn how to apply the elements and principles of design with intention, as you take on creative projects that challenge you to communicate clearly, think critically, and design with purpose. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

PREREQUISITE Art experience, this is not a beginner course  Strengthen your visual communication skills while exploring the many markets where illustration plays a key role—from publishing and advertising to editorial and entertainment. Learn how to take an idea and develop it visually through sketches, iterations, and thoughtful refinement, leading to a final,  polished illustration. Weekly projects and real-world examples will support your learning as you build a deeper understanding of concept development, visual storytelling, and industry expectations.

 Please see your course supply list online.

 Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

Please Note: start and end dates refer to the open & close of registration, not the start or end of the course.

Concentrate on 2D character animation as you gain an understanding of the construction and mechanics of human form and depicting movement through figure drawing and motion studies.

Pay special attention to character development, communicating story points and emotions using animation principles and techniques. Develop your visual language and expand your technical knowledge, including soundtrack design, as you create a short, animated project or animation test.

About Micros

• Register and start whenever.
• Self-paced and learner-driven.
• No scheduled classes.
• 3 months to finish

PREREQUISITE: Clear understanding of design fundamentals; this is not a beginner design course.
Learn the fundamentals of Adobe Illustrator and InDesign through a series of projects where you will explore typography, layouts, grids, vector graphics, and page composition as you apply principles of good design and visual communication. Develop a basic workflow between Illustrator and InDesign as you create posters, brochures, editorial spreads, and other print and multi-page materials. Focus is on using the software as tools for thoughtful, effective design and building confidence with the essential features of each program.
Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end of the course. 

In this course, you'll learn foundational elements of drawing, basic techniques, composition practices, and how to accurately draw human form.

Also, explore and practice a range of approaches using various media. In addition to video lessons from an expert covering a range of topics, you will be able to communicate with your instructor and your colleagues over discussion boards.

Receive feedback of your work from an expert as you deepen your knowledge and improve your composition skills.

About Micros:

• Register and start WHENEVER
• Self paced and learner driven
• No scheduled classes
• 3 Months to Finish

It’s amazing how flat sheets of metal can be transformed into unique, handcrafted jewellery. Learn essential metalworking techniques—including sawing, piercing, filing, shaping, stamping, surface texturing, and finishing—using simple hand tools in a fully equipped jewellery studio. With plenty of supported studio time and hands-on instruction, you will gain confidence in the fundamentals of metal fabrication and begin developing your own creative approach to jewellery design. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

PREREQUISITE Jewellery Fundamentals: Cold Connections.

 Soldering is a foundational skill that expands your creative possibilities in metalwork. The focus is on learning the technical aspects of essential methods for joining metal components, including butt joints, sweat joints, and the use of resists and heat sinks. You will also learn how to choose and apply different types of solder effectively. You will receive guided instruction and hands-on practice, as you build confidence and precision in your soldering skills—an essential step in advancing your jewellery-making abilities. Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

PREREQUISITE: Previous painting experience. 

Landscape painting can have artistic and technical challenges for painters, but through an analytical understanding of perspective and composition and an exploration of colour and tonal relationships, you can master how to shape the mood and depth of your work. Through hands-on exercises, demonstrations, and guided projects, you will also learn effective techniques for controlling your chosen media—whether acrylic, oil, or watercolor—to capture texture, light, and the dynamic qualities of the natural world to create compelling landscapes that reflect both observation and personal expression.

 Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

Discover the art of relief printmaking through linocut in a fully equipped studio. Learn safe carving techniques as you begin printing with a single color, then progress to reduction cutting and multi-color printing. You will explore both press and hand-printing methods, giving you the flexibility to continue creating prints independently after the course. Throughout the course, your instructor will provide expert guidance and support as you develop new skills and techniques.

 Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

Please Note: Start and end dates refer to open & close of registration, not the start or end of the course.

Get introduced to the 3D software Maya, learn the basic functions, and how to create animations. 

Master the basic tools, navigate the software and understand introductory modeling, rigging, lighting, and keyframe animation. Learn how the interface works while applying the principles of animation, growing your creative understanding and output of 3D animation.

About Micros:

• Register and start WHENEVER
• Self-paced and learner-driven
• No scheduled classes
• 3 Months to Finish

Strengthen your drawing skills by working from life and learning to truly observe what’s in front of you. Emphasis is on careful looking and thoughtful interpretation as you develop an understanding of spatial relationships, angles, light and shadow, texture, and tone. You will also explore how to simplify complex subjects, focusing on what’s essential to capture the character and presence of your subject with clarity and confidence. Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

Experience the rich, tactile qualities of oil paint while building a strong foundation in this timeless medium. Explore colour theory, paint mixing, application techniques, and composition through a series of guided projects. With a focus on still life and landscape subjects, you'll gradually develop your skills and confidence, learning how to work with oils in a thoughtful and expressive way. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.  

Opportunities in Event Planning is designed for those working in roles that need competence in occasional event planning practices. In this online self-paced Micro Credential, learners will explore the steps needed to create a successful event through relationship development, event design, and feasibility considerations. Learners will gain knowledge and tools to effectively evaluate event ideas.

This competency-based Micro Credential focuses on specific skills and knowledge proficiency. It can take learners approximately 24 hours to complete and demonstrate proficiency; however, learners with more developed competencies in this area might complete in a shorter period. 

PREREQUISITE: Previous drawing experience. 

Focus on building a strong set of drawings to include in your portfolio for submission to AUArts or any other visual arts institution. Your instructor will guide you through a series of drawings including still life, landscape, the human figure, self-portraiture, and collage – all aimed at increasing your observational drawing skills and creative output. In addition to weekly critiques of your work, you will also discuss how to select work to include in your portfolio, work on a written statement, and learn how to effectively document and upload your work as part of the online application to AUArts. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

PREREQUISITE: Previous drawing experience.

Instructor: Nicole Gruszecki

 Improve your skills in capturing the unique likeness of a face by mastering facial proportions and accurate measurement techniques. Through paired exercises, self-portraits using mirrors, and working from photographs, you’ll experiment with various drawing media and techniques to bring your portraits to life. 

Please review the course supply list online and come prepared for the first class. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class.  

Does your sewing machine intimidate you? Do you have sewing projects where you just don’t know where start? Learn all the sewing basics you need to get started…no experience required! Get (re)introduced to basic hand sewing techniques, learn how to properly operate a sewing machine, choose fabrics, read a basic pattern, and master basic construction methods. You will also review how to layout a pattern, pin, cut, and mark. 

Please see your course supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first class. 

Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.  

Short-Form Video is designed for individuals interested in developing engaging, high-quality videos tailored to social media platforms. Learners will explore video content creation, technical production, and strategies to build personal or brand identities. This competency-based Micro Credential equips participants with practical skills and tools to create impactful short-form videos, optimize them for different platforms, and grow their audience.

This micro credential is competency-based, meaning learners focus on mastering specific skills and knowledge. It is expected to take up to 25 hours to complete, but learners with existing experience may finish in less time. Self-study may be required. 

Explore the process of screen printing your own designs on fabric. You will design and print your own images on yardage, clothing, or accessories using hand-cut stencils and pigment-based inks. Learn how to cut custom stencils, mix your own colors, and layer multiple prints to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces. Printing will be done using water-based inks on natural fibers, giving you a solid foundation in sustainable and creative textile design. 

Some supplies are included in the fee, but please see your course supply list online for a few crucial items. 

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.

Translate your idea or script into moving visuals through storyboarding. You will consider frame composition, camera moves and angles, character blocking, and layout drawings. Discover the full potential of storyboarding through completion of an animatic to evaluate the flow of your narrative and sound design. Projects are student directed, you will work on an original idea or adapt an existing source.
 

About Micros:

• Register and start WHENEVER
• Self paced and learner driven
• No scheduled classes
• 3 Months to Finish

Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.  

Strategic Event Planning is designed for those working in roles that need competence in occasional event planning practices. In this Micro Credential, learners will explore current trends in event planning and learn the steps needed to create, assess risks for, and monitor progress towards a meaningful event experience.  

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. 

Please Note: Start and End dates refer to open and closing of registration, NOT the start or end dates of the course.  

Turning Event Plans into Action 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 deliver a successful event by anticipating potential pressure points, planning the event space, and preparing presenters to perform.  

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. 

Re-consider your clothing's role in your life and redefine its value through care and attention. Through different upcycling techniques, explore the boundaries of your garments and create one-of-a-kind pieces, unique and meaningful to you. Bring in your shirts, jackets, pants, and skirts and add new life to them by deconstructing, re-constructing, and embellishing. You will learn some simple design tips and tricks from your instructor to make your clothes unique and stylish…and fit better. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.

Watercolour can be a challenging medium, especially if you are new to painting—but understanding some basic watercolour handling and techniques, it becomes both manageable and rewarding. Learn essential watercolour skills, including how to stretch paper, control your brush, and work with both wet-on-wet and drybrush methods. Pick up practical tips and tricks as you build confidence through a series of guided projects designed to help you develop control, creativity, and success with the medium. 

Please see your course supply list online. 

Be sure to come prepared for the first class.