Do you have any questions that I can help you with?
Q: What makes VanArts unique compared to other art schools?
A: VanArts has many advantages over other art schools. 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 ususally offer 3 or 4-year degree programs. VanArts is much more industry-focused with intensive training in 1 or 2 years. As a result, you get a highly focused and practical real-world training experience. 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 personalize; and often work late into the evenings and on weekends. Class sizes are kept deliberately small (typically 20 students or less), so students have more opportunities for one-on-one personalized instruction from their teachers who are industry-experienced professionals.
Q: Does VanArts provide job placement?
A: Getting a job in the industry depends on the student's motivation, 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 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 the 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 often 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!
Q: Where do your students get jobs?
A: Since we bring in students from all over the world, our students find employment all over the world. Vancouver itself is one of the hottest cities for animation, gaming and film production, employing several thousand. Several grads have found work locally and most of our grads end up working on projects for feature films, TV series, commercials, web cartoons and video games. Others become independent and work on their own projects. Visit our Alumni page to see where our grads have landed!
Q: Can international students find work in Canada?
A: Some of our international students have been hired by Canadian studios upon graduation, so it's not impossible, but can be more difficult. Like everyone else, it depends on their qualifications for the job and if the studio is able to hire an international employee. For more information on studying and working in Canada, go to the Citizenship & Immigration Canada website: http://www.cic.gc.ca
Q: Does VanArts provide housing for students?
A: We do not provide housing. However we have a list of housing resources that student have found is useful for finding accommodations. We recommend booking a room in advance as a temporary accommodation while searching for an apartment in the local area. It is common for students to share apartments with one or two of their classmates. Most affordable apartments in Vancouver range from $700-$1000 per month.
Q: Do I need to submit a portfolio for a part-time or summer intensive course?
A: No, you will not need to. Portfolios are only required for acceptance into our full-time diploma programs. To register for a part-time or summer course, you simply fill in the online registration form and pay the course fees.
Q: Is there a deadline for applying to VanArts?
A: We have no set deadlines for any of our courses. Applications are processed in the order they are received. It is always wise to apply sooner rather than later in order to secure your seat in a course before it fills up.
Q: Can I get a tour of VanArts?
A: Yes, the school is open for tours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. To schedule a personal tour, call 604-682-2787 ext. 104, or 1-800-396-2787 ext. 104, or email VanArts.
Q: How long has VanArts been around?
A: VanArts was founded in December of 1995. The founding Director was the late Lee Mishkin. Lee was an Academy-Award winning animator with over 50 years of industry experience.
Q: Is VanArts accredited?
A: Yes, VanArts has been accredited since July 1, 2000 by the Private Career Training Institutions Agency of British Columbia.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: Yes, there are full student loans available for residents of Canada. Applicants from other countries should contact their Department of Education to inquire about any financial aid options that may exist.
