Design Emily Carr University of Art + Design

Overview

The Design programme at Emily Carr University of Art + Design offers a transformative environment for students to explore the future of interaction. This intensive course challenges conventional boundaries by integrating studio practice with rigorous theoretical research and scholarly analysis.

Students benefit from a curriculum that moves beyond standard digital interfaces to engage with services, systems, and human-technology relations. The academic journey is defined by a mix of generative coursework and the development of an independent thesis project. This structure ensures that graduates possess both practical skills and a deep critical understanding of their field.

The learning environment is highly collaborative, encouraging designers to participate in critical dialogues and experimental projects.

Why Design at Emily Carr University of Art + Design?

Emily Carr University of Art + Design is recognised as Canada’s premier institution for art and design education. The university provides a unique Vancouver advantage, offering students strong industry connections and a vibrant creative community. This institutional excellence ensures that learners are supported by leading designers and scholars throughout their studies.

Facilities at the university are world-class, featuring dedicated research centres and specialised labs. Students have year-round access to an integrated motion studio and a dedicated VR lab for immersive exploration. These resources support participatory and speculative research methods, allowing for high-level experimentation in a studio-based environment.

The programme also emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration through workshops and research fellowships. By working alongside Canada Research Chairs and participating in international exchanges, students gain a global perspective. This distinctive teaching model combines technical mastery with a commitment to creative excellence and social impact.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 32330 per year
• National fee: CAD 20467 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum integrates studio-based learning with advanced research seminars to support thesis development. Modules may include:

• Interaction Design
• UX/UI
• Research Seminars
• Studio Classes
• Thesis Development
• Speculative Writing
• Experimental Design
• Collaborative Design
• Data Ethics
• Human-Technology Relations

Careers with Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for leadership roles within the global design industry. The focus on interaction and user experience allows alumni to pursue careers in technology, service design, and systems thinking. Many find success in roles that require a blend of creative strategy and technical expertise.

The university’s strong industry links facilitate transitions into professional practice across various sectors. Graduates often work with international design firms, research labs, and innovative startups. By mastering complex design challenges, they are equipped to shape the future of how humans interact with the world and each other.