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 five 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 amongst 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
We would like to thank and acknowledge the important role BC’s Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training is playing in supporting the creative technology sector and underrepresented groups. Subsidized tuition is available if an applicant self-identifies as being from an underrepresented group in the creative technology industry (Indigenous peoples of Canada, racialized communities, women, LGBTQ2+ community and non-binary people, and people with disabilities). Please see the program description links below to learn more.
Unity® for Creative Technology (UCT)
Dates: January 24 - March 2, 2023
Days/Time: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6-9pm
Instructor: Charles Hache (certified Unity instructor)
Cost: $1,795* (full or partial subsidy available)
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.
*UVic is offering the following tuition subsidies:
►50% subsidized tuition for individuals in BC who self-identify as part of an underrepresented group in the tech sector
►100% subsidized tuition for post-secondary students actively enrolled in full-time studies
*Tuition subsidy requests are required to register over the phone and go through an informal screening (1-250-721-8481)
Award of Achievement in Production for Animation and VFX
Type: Part-time
Dates: January 11 – April 19, 2023
Day/Time: Wednesdays, 6-9pm
Cost: $1,435* (when discount applied)
Instructors: Shawn Smolensky (ILM Vancouver) & Sandi Gisbert (Wind Sun Sky Entertainment)
Gain focused and specialized training preparing for production roles in animation and VFX studios. This micro-credential will be offered part-time, to support working professionals who are seeking reskilling and upskilling opportunities for their career.
Classes will be a combination of face-to-face and fully online in a blended model, delivered by instructors and guest speakers with working experience in this field. Instruction will emphasize practical skills and knowledge development through interactive and collaborative learning activities, including case studies and independent research.
*PROMO ALERT: Get a 25% discount when registering for all four courses!
►Applicable to next term starting January 11, 2023
► Use the code: DigiBC2023
Communication for Team-Based Collaboration
Type: Part-time, online
Length: 6 weeks
Dates: February 24-March 31, 2023
Cost: $166.63
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 interprofessional 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.
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.
Leadership and Agile Production Management
Type: Part-time
Dates: TBA for 2023
Are you looking to get an introduction to project leadership roles and practices while gaining experience leading teams in a professional setting? In order 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.
This micro-credential will equip students with a broad understanding of management and leadership through agile and hybrid methodologies (watergile). Students will develop essential skills (principles, concepts, tools, and techniques) for people management while exploring leadership management practices and tools. Further, the industry has seen a significant shift in “how we work” and this course will address remote/hybrid work models.
