Creative Technology Micro-Credential Programs
DigiBC has partnered with Emily Carr University of Art + Design, University of Victoria, Vancouver Community College, Simon Fraser University and BCIT on post-secondary micro-credential programs for the creative technology sector.
Our milestone report, Benchmarking the Creative Technology Ecosystem in British Columbia, highlighted that although the creative technology sector in BC is among the fastest growing and well paying, a shortage of talent remains a key challenge for companies. The micro-credential programs we are supporting will create a bridge between the creative technology industry and British Columbians looking to upskill or reskill and take advantage of the opportunities in the sector.
"Micro-credentials offer novel opportunities for people to pursue a career in this dynamic sector — from recent grads looking to develop specialized skills, to workers re-skilling from adjacent industries, to existing creative tech staffers up-skilling for career advancement. This collaboration between government, industry and post-secondary institutions is a first for our sector, and will allow these programs to stay current with the industry needs and technology shifts that will support job growth and the changing demands of this expanding workforce.” - Loc Dao, Executive Director, DigiBC
- VCC: Award of Achievement in Project Management for Video Games
- VCC: Award of Achievement in Production for Animation and VFX
- SFU / CDM: Leadership and Agile Production Management
- ECUAD: Creative Technology Fundamentals (CTF)
- BCIT: Communication for Team-Based Collaboration
- UVic: Unity® for Creative Technology
StrongerBC Future Skills Grant
These micro-credential programs are eligible for up to 100% subsidy under the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant. This covers up to $3,500 of eligible costs for select courses and programs at public post-secondary institutions in BC, and it is open to British Columbians aged 19 years or older, regardless of financial need. The grant supports learners to take eligible short-term skills training to upgrade their skills and further their careers, giving them access to well-paid, high-opportunity jobs. Funding is currently available for the fall 2023 semester, and please note, there is no confirmation on this for future terms.
Award of Achievement in Project Management for Video Games
Cost: $1163
Next Term: September 13 - December 13, 2023 (Wednesdays, 6-9pm)
Type/Format: Part-time, In-person (VCC downtown campus)
This micro-credential will provide learners with the industry-identified skills of team management, interpersonal relations, reporting, communication, and task management, all within the context of the video game sector. Ideal for those reskilling from adjacent industries or trained programmers, artists and designers looking to successfully transition into a project management role. Instruction will emphasize practical skills and knowledge development through interactive and collaborative learning activities, including case studies and independent research.
Questions? Want to learn more?
VCC will be hosting online info sessions to go over the course content, scheduling, registration, and answer any questions.
►August 15 & 24 @ 12-1pm
►Email ahack@vcc.ca to register
Award of Achievement in Production for Animation and VFX
Cost: $1895
Next Term: September 5 - December 19, 2023 (Tuesdays, 6-9pm)
Type/Format: Part-time, HyFlex (includes options to participate in-person or remotely at the same time, enabling learners to engage with each other during interactive activities)
This micro-credential emphasizes specialized training for production roles at animation and VFX studios. Students will enhance their skills in scheduling, presentation, communication, leadership, documentation, and more. Instruction will include interactive and collaborative learning activities, as well as case studies and independent research. Offered part-time to support working professionals who are seeking reskilling and upskilling opportunities for their career.
Questions? Want to learn more?
VCC will be hosting online info sessions to go over the course content, scheduling, registration, and answer any questions.
►July 31 & August 28 @ 12-1pm
►Email ahack@vcc.ca to register
Leadership and Agile Production Management
Type: Part-time, Online
Dates: Sept 20 - Nov 22, 2023 // Wednesdays 4-6pm
Cost: $1575 +GST
This micro-credential will equip you with a broad understanding of management and leadership through agile and hybrid methodologies (watergile). You will develop essential skills (principles, concepts, tools, and techniques) for people management while exploring leadership management practices and tools. This course will also address remote/hybrid work models.
Iterative development has become more commonplace in many software and technology companies. The biggest obstacle for successful iterative development is understanding the role of management and leadership on adaptive pipelines. To succeed as a project manager, scrum master, producer, project coordinator, or team leader in a digital media and/or technology environment, individuals must be able to lead teams to efficiency and effectiveness.
Creative Technology Fundamentals (CTF)
Type: Part-time
Length: varies per course
Cost: varies per course
Build the skills you need for jobs in animation, visual effects and video games. Did you know that the creative technology sector in BC is among the country’s fastest-growing and highest-paying? The rapid growth of the sector means there is an immediate demand for qualified candidates to fill a range of roles.
The most sought-after hires in creative tech possess three kinds of skills: technical, creative and collaborative. The CTF introductory courses are designed for beginners and provide training in these three core areas. Additionally, the small class sizes and practice-based approach offer a welcoming space with live sessions and one-on-one guidance from instructors. Pursue a career in the creative tech job market by focusing your learning on where it matters most.
Communication for Team-Based Collaboration
Type: Part-time, online
Length: 6 weeks
Winter Term: Oct 27-Dec 1, 2023
Cost: $170.33
This course is for students who would like to hone their skills and experience around working with a team and collaborating effectively in groups. Learn to apply theoretical concepts of inter-professional collaboration, professional empathy, conflict resolution, intercultural, and interpersonal communication. Students will implement theories and communication practices to create a charter, progress report, and final report. Students will also practice reflexivity by analyzing their individual performance and contributions to the team through self-reflection activities.
Unity® for Creative Technology (UCT)
Instructor: Charles Hache (certified Unity instructor)
Next Term: TBD
Cost: $1,795
The power of gaming, animation, and augmented and virtual reality technology has opened up new platforms for engaging storytelling that invites the viewer to become part of the story. As demand for this immersive content continues to grow, employers are seeking people with the skills to meet the needs of the growing creative technology sector.
This program will introduce and explain the technologies that make interactive projects possible and walk learners through creating 2D and 3D apps and projects, focusing on Unity. This is an industry-relevant micro-credential delivered over six weeks, and blends Bootcamp-style online synchronous (real-time) teaching with asynchronous learning activities, assignments and resources.
