Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) is a premier Canadian institution where students from across the globe immerse themselves in the worlds of art and design. Located in the heart of dynamic Calgary, the university plays a pivotal role in shaping the creative culture of Alberta and Canada. In this article for calgaryski, we explore what makes AUArts a standout choice for aspiring creatives.
About the University
AUArts stands as one of only four innovative universities in Canada dedicated specifically to art, craft, and design. Its graduates have built stellar national and international reputations as artists, designers, and creative leaders. Here, students learn from the best—industry experts who are among the country’s most respected practicing artists and scholars.
Based in Calgary, Alberta, the university offers the best of both worlds: a safe, sunny city with a welcoming “small-town” feel. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain parks and steeped in arts and culture, Calgary is also seeing its economy diversify rapidly, creating a wealth of opportunities for graduates entering the job market.
The History of AUArts
Founded in 1926, the Alberta University of the Arts has long been recognized for its world-class facilities and award-winning faculty. Throughout its history, the institution has been a launchpad for exceptional talent and professional excellence.
The school originally started as the Alberta College of Art (ACA), a department within what is now the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). In 1985, ACA officially separated from SAIT to become an autonomous, publicly funded college of art and design.
By 1995, the provincial government granted the college accreditation to award Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. That same year, it was renamed the Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD) to highlight the growing importance of design education. In 2000, ACAD launched its Bachelor of Design program. In 2018, the institution officially achieved university status, a testament to the high calibre of its academic programs.
In 2018, the institution received university status. This was made possible thanks to the high-quality programs it offers.
AUArts – A Member of AICAD
AUArts is a proud member of AICAD—the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design. Founded in 1991, this non-profit consortium brings together leading art schools across Canada and the United States.
The association was born from a need for institutions with similar structures to collaborate and elevate their creative programs. AICAD’s mission is to strengthen its member schools both individually and collectively while educating the public on the immense value of studying art and design.
Mission and Values
AUArts is more than just an art school; it is a vibrant ecosystem where education, research, and creative exploration collide. Here, art isn’t practiced in a vacuum. Instead, it serves as a platform for dialogue, sparking questions and creating new avenues for social and cultural growth.
At its core, AUArts is a diverse and inclusive community. It brings together students, faculty, and researchers who are redefining the roles of art, craft, and design in the modern world. By valuing a wide range of voices and perspectives, the university fosters an environment where honest and impactful education can thrive.
The vision for AUArts extends far beyond the studio walls. The university aims to change the world through art, supporting creative communities and driving the economy. Art is viewed not as an isolated practice, but as a powerful tool capable of shaping mindsets, culture, and the future.