Where Creators Become Leaders

The Bachelor of Creative Arts program is designed to give students who already hold a diploma in an artistic discipline the practical business and leadership skills needed to succeed in the creative arts industries. Developed for full-time students and those in the workforce, this flexible degree completion program can be completed in as few as 15 months. Students will gain a complete understanding of the methodologies, tools and perspectives of their chosen industries, including talent management, project budgeting, financial planning, and legal and ethical considerations in the creative arts.

Start Date

April, July, October, January

Campus

Toronto

Duration

As few as 15 months*

 

*With full course load, year-round study and/or approved transfer credits. Applicants are encouraged to contact an Admissions Advisor to determine the potential duration of their degree program according to their unique circumstances. For comprehensive, up-to-date information, please view the Academic Calendar.

Don’t Have Your Creative Diploma?

The Bachelor of Creative Arts is a degree completion program, requiring the prior completion of an acceptable post-secondary diploma in the creative arts. Don’t have your creative diploma yet? Find qualifying specialized diploma programs that fit your passion at Toronto Film School.

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Yorkville University offers a Bachelor of Creative Arts degree that has received consent in Ontario and is delivered on-campus.Online Diploma and Associate Diploma programs are offered through Toronto Film School at Yorkville University, New Brunswick. On-campus Diploma programs are offered through Toronto Film School, Ontario.

Program Features

Education Flexibility

Achievable in as few as 2 years or less if you already hold a diploma in a creative art, the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program is all about helping you realize your creative vision to the fullest. On your time and at your convenience. We welcome domestic and international students as well as those already working in the arts. Our program is designed to provide a complete understanding of your respective industry—and how you can make the most of it. Study on-campus, online, or through a combination of both.

360° Industry Understanding

Our mentors draw from a wealth of experience in critical assessment, thought leadership, and entrepreneurial skills, including fundraising, research, budget planning, and ethical collaboration. Whether your passion lies in music, film, dance, design, animation or video games, you will receive the cross-disciplinary tools needed to navigate and negotiate the inner workings of your industry.

Transfer Credits Accepted

We understand your time is valuable and your hunger to create is voracious. That’s why we want to help you accelerate your degree by accepting equivalent credits from post-secondary institutions through our articulation/transfer credit agreement.

Post-Graduation Work Permits

As part of our commitment to providing you with every opportunity to achieve your creative goals, international students who complete a Bachelor of Creative Arts degree are eligible to apply for the Post-Graduate Work Permit Program (PGWPP). International students interested in learning more about the PGWPP should contact a qualified immigration consultant or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for more information.

Financial Aid & Assistance

Our Financial Aid officers are devoted to ensuring you have the personalized support and information you need to make your creative dreams a reality. They will help identify the loans, lines of credit, grants, bursaries and scholarships that may be available to you.

Quick Facts

$58.9 billion

Culture industries have a $58.9 billion annual impact in Canada—eight times more than sports.

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2.2 million

Canada’s creative economy employs 2.2 million workers, or 12.9% of the total Canadian workforce which is higher than in the US and the UK.

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715,400

As of 2019, 715,400 professionals worked within the culture industries in Canada, including audiovisual and interactive media, visual and applied arts, written works, performance, and recording.

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YORKVILLE UNIVERSITY

YORKVILLE UNIVERSITY ADVANTAGE

For people who know what they want in life, both personally and professionally, Yorkville University offers programs aimed at achieving those goals. Yorkville University engages with people where they are in life and helps to get them where they want to be. Online or in class, across Canada, Yorkville programs are flexible, fast-paced and, above all else, lead to transformation through education.

Flexibility

Flexible Learning

Course scheduling and online course options allow you to make time for part-time work and other life priorities while completing your degree.  

Accelerated Degrees

 Graduate faster with our year-round study option. We also provide optimum credit transfers based on your previous learning. 

Year-Round Start Dates

Start your program as soon as you are ready with various start dates throughout the year.

 

Resources & Support

Student Assistance

Our program advisors assist you every step of the way, from finding the right program to graduation, and beyond.  

Student Success Centre

Get 24/7 online supportaccess to writing and math labs, and links to tutoring and one-on-one support.  

Career Services

We assist you in creating impactful resumes, cover letters and portfolios, prepare you for interviews, and help find work opportunities that match your ambition.   

Enhanced Learning

Small Class Sizes

Get personalized attention in an average class size of 20 students and learn through active participation. 

Networking

Build lifelong relationships with fellow students and faculty as part of teamwork, discussions and assignments. 

Experienced Faculty

Benefit from the knowledge of experienced faculty who use their expertise to help you achieve your own career goals. 

TORONTO CAMPUS

A global business hub, Toronto is the heart of Canada’s design, fashion and entertainment industries.

Career Outcomes

The Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program will empower your career with an education that unites your creative talents with the practical industry skills for entrepreneurial opportunities, project-based positions, long-term engagements and senior leadership roles. Because the program enhances the applied skills of a variety of artistic disciplines, the career possibilities are as expansive as they are exciting. For instance:

  • Filmmakers could go on to become production executives, producers, or studio heads.
  • Actors could become casting directors, talent managers, or agents.
  • Screenwriters could become executive producers, consultants, or development executives.
  • Fashion Designers could run their own labels or studios.
  • Video Game Developers, Animators and Designers could become creative directors, senior managers, or studio heads.
  • Graphic Designers could expand into art direction or creative direction.

Meet the Program Director

“If you’re ready to unite your creative passions with more professional opportunities in leadership roles within the creative industries, join the Bachelor of Creative Arts program at Yorkville University. Where you complete you.”

Adam Till
Program Chair, Bachelor of Creative Arts

Faculty

Meet Some of Your Bachelor of Creative Arts On-Campus Faculty

  • Adam Till, JD/MBA

    Program Chair, Bachelor of Creative Arts

  • Chris McClure, Ph.D.

  • James Warrack, MA

  • Paul de Silva, Ph. D.

  • Ralph Silva, MFA

  • Timothy Lauren

  • Victoria Novak, JD

  • Adrian Battiston, JD

  • Scott Birdwise, Ph.D.

  • Alexander Carson, MA

  • Derrek S. Lennox, MBA

  • Bruno Sanseverino Lyra, LLB

Course Descriptions

The Yorkville University Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program complements your artistic talents with the methodologies, perspectives and advanced leadership skills needed to accelerate your career, including courses in Entrepreneurship, Managing Talent, Financial Leadership, Research Methods, and more.

 

A full listing of program courses includes:

  • Core Courses
    Code Course Name Credits
    BCAR 3013 03
    BCAR 3023 03
    BCAR 3043 03
    BCAR 3053 03
    BCAR 3063 03
    BCAR 3073 03
    BCAR 4013 03
    BCAR 4023 03
    BCAR 4033 03
    BCAR 4043 03
    BCAR 4113 03
    BCAR 4123 03
  • General Studies Courses
    Code Course Name Credits
    ENGL101 03
    QRSS100 03
    ARTH110 03
    ARTH120 03
    ARTS 101 03
    ARTS 102 03
    ARTS 103 03
    CRIN110 03
    ENGL150 03
    COMM100 03
    UNIV101 03
    GEOG210 03
    ECON211 03
    ENGL250 03
    HIST300 03
    PHIL300 03
    SOCI300 03
    PSYC200 03
    SOCI200 03
    HUMN422 03
    HUMN430 03
    HUMN450 03
    HUMN440 03

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of Yorkville University’s Bachelor of Creative Arts program will be equipped with the advanced skills needed to succeed in the following areas of activity:

  • Finding, assessing, and/or leading the production of creative material and properties, including:

    • Understanding the history and social/cultural context of creative art
    • Conducting research about creative arts and particular artistic properties and communicate the results of such research
    • Critically assessing and evaluating artistic creations
    • Understanding intellectual property rights and the management of those rights
    • Understanding the global context and nature of creative arts
    • Finding, motivating, and managing talent, including:

      • Creating and managing a vision that will motivate others
      • Building and leading effective teams
      • Negotiation, conflict management and delegation
      • Supervising people and performance management
      • Fostering innovation and creativity
      • Understanding the legal and regulatory frameworks relating to employees, unions, and independent contractors
      • Finding and managing the financial resources required to realize creative undertakings, including:

        • Entrepreneurship
        • Fundraising, understanding sources of public funding, and preparing effective applications for funding
        • Strategic and tactical planning, including budget planning
        • Risk assessment and management, and expenditure management
        • Understanding the legal requirements related to accountability and reporting
        • Understanding the importance of ethical collaboration and personal accountability in the creative arts, including:

          • Understanding of and sensitivity to gender, social, and cultural diversity
          • Understanding of the importance of ethical rules and the need for leaders to be ethically accountable as well as legally and financially accountable
          • Developing cross-cutting competencies in the following:

            • Critical thinking
            • Written communication
            • Oral communication
            • Collaboration and teamwork

Admission Requirements

Yorkville University’s online Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program can be taken from anywhere in the world.

  • An applicant may be admitted to the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program if they meet one of the following sets of requirements:

    Admission path 1:

    • Completion in good academic standing of a three-year (six-term) diploma from a Canadian college of applied arts and technology or private career college legally recognized in the applicant’s home province (or the equivalent from a post-secondary education institution legally recognized in a jurisdiction outside Canada).
      • The diploma must have been earned in one of the creative arts, which include but may not be limited to: music, dance, drama and theatre, writing, interior design and decorating, painting, sculpture, photography, graphics and computer graphics, animation, game design, crafts, industrial design, fashion and costume design, motion pictures, television, radio, video, sound recording. 
      • The applicant must have graduated with a GPA of at least 2.0 (or the equivalent). 
      • Equivalent credentials earned in a country other than Canada are accepted.

    OR

     Admission path 2:

    • Completion in good academic standing of a two-year (four-term) diploma from a Canadian college of applied arts and technology or private career college legally recognized in the applicant’s home province (or the equivalent from a post-secondary education institution legally recognized in a jurisdiction outside Canada).
      • The diploma must have been earned in one of the creative arts, which include but may not be limited to: music, dance, drama and theatre, writing, interior design and decorating, painting, sculpture, photography, graphics and computer graphics, animation, game design, crafts, industrial design, fashion and costume design, motion pictures, television, radio, video, sound recording.
      • The applicant must have graduated with a GPA of at least 2.0 (or the equivalent).

    AND one of:

    • The completion of the equivalent of six credits of studio/applied course work in the applicant’s creative arts specialization or a closely related field over and above course work completed to earn the qualifying diploma;
      • Courses must have been completed at a public university, college of applied arts and technology, or private career college legally recognized in the applicant’s home province or country;
      • A grade of at least C must have been earned in the studio/applied courses;
      • Students who have not completed six semester hours of additional studio/applied credits but have met other admission requirements may satisfy this admission requirement by agreeing to complete up to two studio/applied arts courses at Yorkville University. (The specific courses will be decided on a case-by-case basis.) 

    OR

    • Six months’ professional, applied, and/or employment experience in the applicant’s area of creative arts expertise. 

    AND

    • Completion of nine semester hours of university-level undergraduate study.
      • Courses must have been completed at a public or private university legally recognized in the applicant’s home province or country.
      • Courses must cover at least two of the following broad areas of study: social sciences, humanities, sciences (including mathematics), fine arts.
      • A grade of at least C must have been earned in each of the courses.
      • Students who have not completed nine semester hours of university-level undergraduate study but have met other admission requirements may satisfy this admission requirement by agreeing to complete additional breadth courses at Yorkville University.

    Note: The Admissions Committee has approved the following set of Yorkville University courses to satisfy the requirements for additional creative arts training and additional university-level courses:

    • Additional university-level courses:
      • UNIV 101: University Studies
      • QRSS 100: Qualitative Research Methods for Social Science
      • COMM 100: Cross-Cultural Communication
    • Additional applied arts courses:
      • ARTS 101: Principles of Art and Design
      • ARTS 102: Arts Industries in Canada – an Introduction and Overview

    English Language Proficiency

    Applicants seeking to establish English language proficiency by providing TOEFL, IELTS, or CAEL scores (or scores from other tests of English language proficiency recognized by the university) but whose scores fall below the standards required for admission may be considered for conditional admission in the following circumstances: they meet all other requirements for admission; their scores meet or are equivalent to at least the following standards – TOEFL 65; IELTS 6.5; CAEL 50.

    Note that if you did not complete either your secondary education or your qualifying diploma where English was the language of instruction, you will be required to show proficiency in English sufficient for post-secondary study. Such proficiency may be established in one of the following ways:*

    1. Successful completion of at least 12 credit hours of previous postsecondary education where English was the language of instruction.
    2. Successful completion with the equivalent of “B” standing or better of a post-secondary level English for Academic Purposes program accredited by Languages Canada (http://www.languagescanada.ca/).
    3. Confirmation of an official TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of at least 550 (written version) or 80 (Internet based version); or an IELTS (International English-Language Test System) overall bandwidth of at least 6.5; or a Canadian Academic English-Language Test (CAEL) score of 60 or higher; or a Duolingo score of 105 or higher; or a score equivalent to these scores on another test of English language proficiency recognized by and acceptable to the University.

    Conditional Admission

    • The BCA Admissions Committee may admit students conditionally and/or may establish probationary conditions on admission.
    • Applicants with English language proficiency scores that fall below the standards required for admission, may be considered for conditional admission in the following circumstances:

    IELTS score (or equivalent)

    • 6.5 and above: Students will enroll in the regular academic program
    • 5.5 to less than 6.5: Students will enroll in the regular academic program and in an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course in Term 1.

      The EAP course (ENGL180) is available at select campuses concurrently as part of Yorkville University’s programs and counts towards the completion of the degree. There is no additional cost to the program when students take the EAP course.

    *In all cases, the university reserves the right to require proof of language proficiency before permission will be granted to register in academic courses. Applicants from countries where English is the language of instruction, but is not the primary language of the general population, may be asked to demonstrate English-language proficiency.

    Documentation Required to Support Application for Admission:

    • Official transcripts for all post-secondary education and professional training completed.
    • A letter of intent which provides a sample of writing that can contribute to the committee’s assessment of an applicant’s ability to succeed in university studies. 
    • A curriculum vitae or resume which provides insight into how the BCA builds upon previous post-secondary study
    • Official name change documents should transcripts and other supporting documents be in a name different than the name on application.

    For applicants seeking admission on the basis of 4-term diploma plus additional experience, evidence of the additional experience in the form of portfolios, catalogues, publications, reviews, testimonials, and/or employer references.

    Have any questions? Please contact an Admissions Advisor.

Tuition & Fees

The approximate total cost for the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program is $28,500.*

A bursary of $7,500 may be available for BCA students.

The Bachelor of Creative Arts program runs throughout the year, which is divided into four academic terms: Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. An academic year comprises three academic terms. A typical course is three credit hours.

Total program tuition may vary based on actual credit transfers and course equivalencies. Below are sample calculations depending on the number of courses taken per term.

COURSES PER TERM CREDITS CREDIT HOUR FEES
2 6 $475 6 x $475 = $2,850
3 9 $475 9 x $475 = $4,275
4 12 $475 12 X $475 = $5,700

*This cost is for students who are admitted on the basis of completing a recognized 6 term (or equivalent) creative arts college or university program.
As of 2023/2024. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Tuition Payment

Arrangements for payment of tuition must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of each term (please see the Academic Schedule for deadlines). Monthly payment arrangements can also be made. Please contact our Bursar’s Office for more details at 1-888-886-1882.

Students applying to Yorkville University’s Bachelor of Creative Arts program have several options for financing their education. Full-time students enrolled in the Bachelor of Creative Arts program are eligible to apply to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) or their home province student loan program.

Please contact an Admissions Advisor to learn more about financial aid options.

Other Fees
Please note that costs do not include other fees such as textbooks, expendable supplies, equipment and resource fees. All fees and charges are quoted in Canadian dollars (CAD). Yorkville University also accepts equivalent payment in other currencies.

For further information about tuition, fees and payment methods, please contact Yorkville University’s Bursar’s Office. Tuition rates are confirmed three months prior to the start of each term. Changes to tuition rates will be announced at least three months prior to the start of the term to which they apply. Current tuition rates are available on the Yorkville University website or from the Bursar’s Office at 1-866-467-0661 (in Canada or the U.S) or 1-647-497-8940 (international).

International Students – BCA
The approximate total cost for the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program is $42,780.*

Bursaries up to $25,350 may be available for BCA students.

The Bachelor of Creative Arts program runs throughout the year, which is divided into four academic terms: Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. An academic year comprises three academic terms. A typical course is three credit hours.

Total program tuition may vary based on actual credit transfers and course equivalencies. Below are sample calculations depending on the number of courses taken per term.

COURSES PER TERM CREDITS CREDIT HOUR FEES
3 9 $713 9 x 713 = CAD$6,417
4 12 $713 12 x 713 = CAD$8,556
*This cost is for students who are admitted on the basis of completing a recognized 6 term (or equivalent) creative arts college or university program. The tuition for students who have completed a recognized 4 term (or equivalent) creative arts college or university program is $53,475.
As of 2023/2024. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Tuition Payment

Arrangements for payment of tuition must be made at least two weeks prior to the start of each term. (Please see the Academic Schedule for deadlines.) Monthly payment arrangements can also be made. Please contact our Bursar’s Office for more details at 1-866-467-0661 (in Canada & the U.S) or 1-647-497-8940 (International).

Students applying to Yorkville University’s Bachelor of Creative Arts program have several options for financing their education. Yorkville University has submitted an application for the BCA to be provincial aid eligible and expects a favourable decision. We will notify all interested applicants/students the moment the approval is received.

Please contact the bursar’s office to learn more about available options.

Other Fees
Please note that costs do not include other fees such as textbooks, expendable supplies, equipment and resource fees. All fees and charges are quoted in Canadian dollars (CAD). Yorkville University also accepts equivalent payment in other currencies.

For further information about tuition, fees and payment methods, please contact Yorkville University’s Bursar’s Office. Tuition rates are confirmed three months prior to the start of each term. Changes to tuition rates will be announced at least three months prior to the start of the term to which they apply. Current tuition rates are available on the Yorkville University website or from the Bursar’s Office at 1-866-467-0661 (in Canada or the U.S) or 1-647-497-8940 (international).

Financial Aid Types

Scholarships & Bursaries

Yorkville University provides a limited number of scholarships and bursaries to qualified students.

Learn More

Financial Aid

Yorkville University is committed to helping students find affordable solutions to finance their education investment.

Learn More

Articulation Partners

Previous students of select colleges have the opportunity to transfer credits towards Yorkville University’s programs and graduate faster.

Learn More

Canadian Forces

Special tuition bursaries and military training credit transfer options are offered to current and former Canadian Forces members and their families.

Learn More

FAQ

  • 1. Why should I choose the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program at Yorkville University?

    The Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program provides students with the advanced leadership skills necessary to succeed as an entrepreneur and leader in the creative industries, along with the flexibility to study while you meet the demands of your busy life. Students can choose a mix of on-campus and online courses, and have the option of taking courses year-round.
    If you are looking to take your creative talents and career opportunities to the next level in the creative arts, the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program is a unique, skill-building pathway to success.

    • 2. Is it possible to substitute on-campus courses with online courses?

      Yes. For students looking for more flexibility in their schedule, many on-campus courses can be substituted with online courses. This can allow you to more easily meet work, personal and academic demands.
      For international students who would like to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, at least 50 percent of total continuous courses must be taken on campus with full-time student status. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

      • 3. Can I work part time and still complete my on-campus degree?

        Most of our on-campus students continue to advance their careers by working part time during their studies. Our degree programs offer the flexibility you need to study at home, at work or while travelling. Some on-campus courses may also be substituted with online courses for additional flexibility in class schedule.

        For some of our online degree programs, our students are older and are experienced professionals with work and family responsibilities.

        • 4. How is it possible to complete the program in two years or less?

          It is possible to complete the degree program in two years or less if you already possess a diploma from a qualified university, college, or applied arts or technology school in a creative arts discipline. Additionally, you must also have completed either 6 credits for studio/applied work in your specialization or 6 months of relevant professional experience.
          Students can use an approved term break to study year-round instead of having an academic term off and complete the program in two years. Yorkville University operates year-round and has four academic terms and intake periods starting in January, April, July and October.
          If you have previous post-secondary education or have served in the military, you can also apply to transfer credits from past courses towards completion of the program, which can further shorten your study time.
          Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

          • 5. How much does the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program cost for on-campus students?

            The Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program fees for on-campus students depend on whether you are a domestic or international student and whether you take any courses online as part of the program. Please see here for current tuition rates.
            Yorkville University is committed to helping you evaluate your full range of financial aid options and payment schedules. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

            • 6. What is the application process for the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program?

              The application process depends on whether you are a domestic or international student. Please see here for more information or contact an Admissions Advisor if you have further questions.

              • 7. Do I need a study permit to attend Yorkville University?

                If you are an international student, a study permit must be obtained before classes start. The study permit can be applied for online, at a Canadian consular office abroad, or in Canada. Please click here for more information.

                • 8. What is the Toronto campus like?

                  The Bachelor of Creatives Arts on-campus program is based at the Yorkville University campus located in downtown Toronto, steps from public transit, Dundas Square, and the Toronto Eaton Centre. Please click here for more information.

                  • 9. Is Yorkville University approved to offer the Bachelor of Creative Arts degree?

                    Yorkville University has been approved to offer the Bachelor of Creative Arts program by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges & Universities.

                    • 10. What IELTS or TOEFL score do I need to be accepted?

                      Please see our Admission Requirements for more information on the minimum English language requirements.

                      • 11. What if I don’t have the minimum English language requirements?

                        Yorkville University offers several options for applicants who do not meet the minimum English language requirements for admission eligibility. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

                        • 12. Does Yorkville University have on-campus living accommodations?

                          While we do not offer accommodations on campus, several resources are available for our students to search for off-campus options. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

                          • 13. How much money will I need for accommodations, meals and living expenses?

                            Below are approximate estimates in Canadian dollars. Each student will need to evaluate their own unique costs and budget accordingly.
                            Estimated Monthly Living Expenses:
                            Housing $500-$1200
                            Food $200-$400
                            Transportation $130-$200
                            Entertainment $100-$200
                            Cell Phone $70-$100
                            Total Monthly Budget $1000-$2100

                            • 14. Does Yorkville University offer any scholarships?

                              Several scholarships are offered by Yorkville University for domestic students only. Please click here for more information.
                              Yorkville University is committed to helping you evaluate your financial aid options and payment schedules. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

                              • 15. Can I apply for provincial student loans?

                                Only domestic students can apply to provincial student loan programs. Click here for more information. Yorkville University is committed to helping you evaluate your financial aid options and payment schedules. Please contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.

                                • 16. What if I have more questions?

                                  If your questions are not addressed on this web page, please click here for a more comprehensive FAQ, which covers admissions, registration, fees and general information about Yorkville University.
                                  Please contact an Admissions Advisor if you have additional questions.

TAKE THE NEXT STEP

For more information, contact an Admissions Advisor.

 

Contact Admissions