Vancouver Institute of Media Arts or VanArts is a fully accredited post-secondary institute. We offer diploma and certificate programs in 2D and 3D animation, game art and design, and visual effects.

Animation, gaming, and visual effects.

VanArts does not provide housing for students. Housing accommodations are available nearby in the community and a student should budget $650.00 to $1,000.00 per month.

We are a specialized "media arts school" and not a "department" within a larger institution. Other schools may have a wider variety of subjects to choose from, but we are much more focused on all things related to 2D and 3D Animation, Game Art and Design, Visual Effects, and Digital Photography. As a result, you get a highly focused real world training experience. The atmosphere of the school has more of an "art school" quality. We are situated in historic Yaletown and heritage downtown buildings with a professional yet cozy look and feel. A major advantage our students have is a dedicated personal computer workstation. Many other schools only provide scheduled access to shared computers and light tables. Our students are given their own space to "move in" to and personalize; they are free to decorate it with pictures or models such as toys, and often work late into the evenings and on weekends.

Getting a job in the industry depends on the student's professionalism and skills, displayed through their demo reel and work ethic. At VanArts, the goal and responsibility of every student is to finish the program with a professional demo reel, a drawing portfolio, and industry contacts. We have real connections to several local studios and often bring in guest speakers to inform students about job opportunities at the studios. We have instructors who have worked in studios all over the world. They can give references and advice on application process and international work visas. Several students have landed freelance jobs and full-time positions through referrals by their instructors or classmates. This is what industry experienced staff can provide and students who take advantage of the resources we offer and work hard can succeed in finding a job in anywhere from a few days to a few months after graduating. Our high placement rate shows that our persistent students are succeeding!