Undergraduate programs at AUArts

Degrees built around your practice.

At AUArts, deciding between Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Design (BDes) means choosing how you want to engage with the world.

Pick the program that matches your artistic ambition and future goals.

BFA & BDes at a glance

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Undergraduate program

In this degree, you’ll major in Studio Art and focus on one or two concentrations, including: 

Animation, Ceramics, Drawing, Fibre, Glass, Jewellery & Metals, Media Arts, Object Design & Fabrication, Painting, Photography, Print Media and Sculpture.

Focus on artistic experimentation, studio practice and personal expression.

Explore BFA

Bachelor of Design

Undergraduate program

When you enter the BDes program, you’ll major in Visual Communication Design (VCD) and follow one of two streams:

Graphic Design & Advertising or Illustration.

Engage in creative problem-solving, real-world impact through purposeful design and industry standard practices.

Explore BDes

What to expect

Students gathered in a contemporary gallery space, attentively listening during an art critique or presentation. The diverse group, dressed in casual and expressive styles, reflects a creative and collaborative learning environment at Alberta University of the Arts.
  • Build the foundation in your first year, then dive deep into your chosen area(s) of study.
  • Mix and match required and elective courses from studio, non-studio and hybrid options for a true multidisciplinary experience.
  • Develop your creative voice through course work, projects, exhibitions, critiques and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
  • Engage in studio practices, critical thinking and creative exploration placed in social and cultural contexts.
  • Graduate with a portfolio of work and experience to launch your career.
Tuition & fees Academic calendar

Visit us November 29: 12-4PM

An instructor and student sit in a studio space having a discussion, with a colorful expressive painting on an easel beside them.

Portfolio Review Day 2025

Portfolio Review Day is a great opportunity for future AUArts students to get some helpful tips on how to make your portfolio more impactful.

Nov 29, 2025

Our faculty

ScottCressman.jpeg

Scott Cressman

I work with organizations to develop effective strategies, motivating ideas and impact through human-centered design thinking.

Scott Cressman

Christine Somer

The incredible beauty that human hands and minds can generate leaves me in awe. I am equally captivated by the odd, the unexpected, the unconventional- the ‘off the beaten path’ subjects that aren’t oftem featured in the coffee table tomes.

Christine Somer
Bote

Tivadar Bote

Born in Szekszard, Hungary, Tivadar Bote is a professional, practicing illustrator / logo designer and educator living in Calgary.

Tivadar Bote

Why choose AUArts?

Students gather in AUArts’ main hall during orientation, chatting under a large Alberta University of the Arts banner.

Join a passionate, collaborative community of artists, craftspeople and designers. Learn from practicing faculty who are active in Calgary’s arts scene. Work in world-class studios with access to amazing facilities. Share your work through on-campus exhibitions and events.

Overlapping film exposures of orange, red, and white flowers creating a layered, dreamlike floral image.

Apply to AUArts today!

Start your application View all programs Connect with our team