Undergraduate

BFA or BDes?

Can't decide between a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of Design?

To answer this question, think about what excites you and where you see your art school journey taking you.

Programs

Alberta University of the Arts offers four-year undergraduate programs leading to Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and the Bachelor of Design (BDes) degrees. The Bachelor of Fine Arts and the Bachelor of Design programs emphasize studio practice placed in social and cultural contexts through an integrated studio and School of Critical and Creative Studies curriculum.

A chance to...

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.

...surprise yourself, gain skills and discover new directions.

Your creative path.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Undergraduate program

In this degree, you’ll specialize in Studio Art and focus on one or two program areas.

Choose from Ceramics, Drawing, Fibre, Glass, Jewellery and Metals, Media Arts, Object Design and Fabrication, Painting, Print Media or Sculpture.   

Learn more about BFA

Bachelor of Design (BDes)

Undergraduate program

When you enter the BDes program, you’ll major in either Photography or Visual Communication Design. 

The Visual Communication Design specialization offers two streams: 

  • Advertising and Graphic Design, or 
  • Character Design and Illustration.    
Learn more about BDes

Flexible & unique

With 12 possible areas of specialization, including secondary concentrations, AUArts’ degree programs provide the flexibility to create a curriculum as unique as you are.

Guidance & support

AUArts' Undergraduate programs will give you freedom to explore, expert guidance to hone your skills, and the support to begin a successful career.

Colour theory class

Shape your future

Take the next step with AUArts

Program areas How to apply Request information