Course catalogue

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.  

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.  

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.  

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.

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 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

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.

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.  

Adapting Communication Strategies for Diverse Audiences and Channels focuses on equipping learners with the skills to tailor communication strategies to effectively engage diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Learners will analyze audience needs, preferences, and cultural contexts to create messages that resonate and foster connection. The Micro also emphasizes adapting communication styles for different channels, such as social media, email, presentations, and print media, ensuring clarity and impact. 

Adapting Communication Strategies for Diverse Audiences and Channels focuses on equipping learners with the skills to tailor communication strategies to effectively engage diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Learners will analyze audience needs, preferences, and cultural contexts to create messages that resonate and foster connection. The Micro also emphasizes adapting communication styles for different channels, such as social media, email, presentations, and print media, ensuring clarity and impact. 

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. 

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

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

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.  

This course equips learners with the skills to design and build custom chatbots. Participants will gain foundational knowledge of chatbot development, learning to create engaging personalities and scripts using tools like Dialogflow and GPT-4. The course emphasizes hands-on practice, allowing learners to design functional prototypes that integrate text and voice recognition for seamless user interaction. Key topics include interaction design, improving chatbot usability, and analyzing user behavior to enhance engagement. 

This course equips learners with the skills to design and build custom chatbots. Participants will gain foundational knowledge of chatbot development, learning to create engaging personalities and scripts using tools like Dialogflow and GPT-4. The course emphasizes hands-on practice, allowing learners to design functional prototypes that integrate text and voice recognition for seamless user interaction. Key topics include interaction design, improving chatbot usability, and analyzing user behavior to enhance engagement. 

Get your hands dirty in the ceramics studio! The 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 ceramics 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 ceramics 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.  

This Clear Messaging Micro Credential equips learners with the skills to develop messaging frameworks that deliver key information with clarity and impact. Learners will distill complex ideas into straightforward, engaging messages tailored to their audience and communication goals. The course emphasizes the principles of brevity, coherence, and consistency across platforms and formats, providing practical tools to craft messages that resonate and drive action. 

This Clear Messaging Micro Credential equips learners with the skills to develop messaging frameworks that deliver key information with clarity and impact. Learners will distill complex ideas into straightforward, engaging messages tailored to their audience and communication goals. The course emphasizes the principles of brevity, coherence, and consistency across platforms and formats, providing practical tools to craft messages that resonate and drive action. 

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.  

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.  

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. 

Developing Cohesive and Effective Communication Campaigns will equip learners with the skills and strategies to plan, execute, and evaluate impactful communication campaigns. Learners will develop unified messaging that aligns with organizational goals and resonates across diverse platforms and audiences. The Micro emphasizes integrating strategic planning, and audience insights to create campaigns that drive engagement and achieve measurable outcomes. 

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

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. 

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. 

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. 

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

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.  

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 sessions each class. 

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 sessions each 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. 

This Effective Communication Through Narrative Micro Credential focuses on the art and science of crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences. Learners will structure communications that evoke emotion, build connection, and convey key messages effectively. The Micro teaches learners 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 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

This advanced course dives deep into the multifaceted world of generative AI, focusing on integrating AI across text, images, audio, and video to create innovative multimodal projects. Participants will explore sophisticated AI concepts such as neural networks, interactive content, and innovative tools for combining multiple data types into cohesive outputs. Through hands-on modules, learners will design and execute a capstone project that highlights their mastery of AI's creative and technical potential. 

Please Note:  This Micro Credential takes place through online scheduled sessions, please refer to the schedule for class dates and times.  

This advanced course dives deep into the multifaceted world of generative AI, focusing on integrating AI across text, images, audio, and video to create innovative multimodal projects. Participants will explore sophisticated AI concepts such as neural networks, interactive content, and innovative tools for combining multiple data types into cohesive outputs. Through hands-on modules, learners will design and execute a capstone project that highlights their mastery of AI's creative and technical potential. 

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 out 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.  

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 out 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.  

INSTRUCTOR Mark Vazquez Mackay

Learn a classical approach to drawing and painting the figure as you spend a full week in the studio working from a live model. All artists are supported by the instructor to work on honing their figure drawing and/or painting skills. You will participate in discussions about both the historical and contemporary figures in drawing and painting as well as addressing formal and technical issues. Both individual and group critiques play an important role in the workshop and serve as a valuable learning tool for all artists involved. All levels welcome. Please see your recommended supply list online. Be sure to come prepared for the first day. 

Please Note: This course is available for pre-registration and will officially launch on April 7, 2025

In this course, you will 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

This foundational course introduces learners to the principles of generative AI. Participants explore AI tools and techniques to generate basic outputs such as text and images, laying the groundwork for future innovation. Through hands-on practice, learners gain proficiency in tools like DALL-E, RunwayML and Tinkersynth, while engaging with key technical and ethical considerations in using AI. 

This foundational course introduces learners to the principles of generative AI. Participants explore AI tools and techniques to generate basic outputs such as text and images, laying the groundwork for future innovation. Through hands-on practice, learners gain proficiency in tools like DALL-E, RunwayML and Tinkersynth, while engaging with key technical and ethical considerations in using AI. 

This foundational course introduces learners to the principles of generative AI. Participants explore AI tools and techniques to generate basic outputs such as text and images, laying the groundwork for future innovation. Through hands-on practice, learners gain proficiency in tools like DALL-E, RunwayML and Tinkersynth, while engaging with key technical and ethical considerations in using AI. 

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