Bachelor of Creative Arts (Online)
First Creative Degree Completion Program in Canada
Yorkville University’s online Bachelor of Creative Arts is the first creative degree completion program of its kind to be offered in Canada.
This unique degree provides a comprehensive blend of artistic development, business acumen, and leadership skills, empowering creators to become leaders in their field.
Our project-based curriculum is designed and taught by award-winning professionals, offering practical understanding of business fundamentals tailored to the needs of creative professionals.
From cultural and ethical contexts to financial management and entrepreneurship, you’ll develop a well-rounded skill set that sets you apart in the industry.
Network with industry professionals, study while you work, gain real-world experience, and join a community of creative leaders shaping the future of the arts.
Network with industry professionals, gain real-world experience, and join a community of creative leaders shaping the future of the arts.
$58.9 B
Culture industry’s annual impact in Canada
2.2 M
Employed by Canada’s creative economy
715400
Professionals working in Canadian culture industries in 2019
New Term Starts Soon
Starts:
January, April, October
Campus:
Online
Duration:
As few as 15 months*
*With full course load, year-round study and/or approved transfer credits. Contact an Admissions Advisor for more information.
Program Benefits
Our Bachelor of Creative Arts is Canada’s first creative degree-completion program, offering creative professionals an accelerated pathway to earning their degree and the skills required to successfully take up senior leadership roles and project-based positions in the creative arts industry.
Our faculty consists of award-winning professionals, some of whom have been active in the industry for over 30 years. The industry insights and connections that they bring to class helps you get a head start in achieving your career goals and stand out in the competitive market.
Through a mix of strategic partnerships and leveraging our faculty’s network, we’ve created a learning ecosystem that embeds itself in Canada’s creative industry. Your career begins when you start your program as you are already building a professional network that’s vital for success in the creative arts.
Being consistently featured as a top online Canadian university is a testament to our dedication towards online education. Over the years, we’ve built flexible programs that you can complete while working, accelerate or extend your program duration, and start the program as soon as you are ready with our multiple start dates.
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:
Director
Producer
Studio Head/Owner
Talent Manager/Agent
Senior Manager
Creative/Artistic Director
Creative Development Manager
Artist Manager
Fashion Studio Owner
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.
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.
Faculty
Meet the Program Director
Adam Till
Program Chair, Bachelor of Creative Arts
Adam Till is an award-winning writer/producer based in Toronto, Canada. Adam started his professional life as a lawyer, graduating with a JD/MBA from Osgoode Hall Law School and Schulich School of Business. He left law after just a few years, with an idea for a show about his experiences. Adam then created, co-executive produced, and wrote the bulk of the episodes for the series Billable Hours, which ran on Showcase/Global from 2006-2009, winning the Gemini Award for Best Writing in a Comedy series in its final season. He has since written films starring Rob Lowe, Mira Sorvino and Abigail Breslin, and won the Canadian Comedy Award for Film Writing in 2006 for his film Leo. In 2010, Adam was approached to develop the Writing for Film & Television program for Toronto Film School, which he went on to direct for the next 11 years. He was recently named the Program Chair of the Bachelor of Creative Arts program at Toronto Film School affiliate, Yorkville University.
Meet the Faculty
Adam Till, JD/MBA
Program Chair, Bachelor of Creative Arts
Chris McClure, Ph.D.
James Warrack, MA
Faculty Member
Paul de Silva, Ph. D.
Faculty Member
Ralph Silva, MFA
Faculty Member
Timothy Lauren
Faculty Member
Victoria Novak, JD
Faculty Member
Adrian Battiston, JD
Faculty Member
Scott Birdwise, Ph.D.
Faculty Member
Alexander Carson, MA
Faculty Member
Derrek S. Lennox, MBA
Faculty Member
Bruno Sanseverino Lyra, LLB
Faculty Member
Robin Payne, JD
Faculty Member
Daniel Sacco, PhD
Faculty Member
Admission Requirements
Yorkville University’s online Bachelor of Creative Arts degree program can be taken from anywhere in the world.
Toronto Campus, Ontario
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), and 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:*
- Successful completion of at least 12 credit hours of previous postsecondary education where English was the language of instruction.
- 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/).
- 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 from 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 and Fees
Total Cost (including Application and Seat Fees) is $28,650*
*Note: Total program cost may be reduced when applying applicable transfer credits. Costs below assumes full Program Cost without applicable transfer credits applied. The cost does not include textbooks, expendable supplies, equipment, and resource fees. To understand your specific Program Cost, please speak with an advisor.
- BCA Tuition: $28,500
- Cost per credit: $475
- Program cost includes $300 seat fee and $150 application fee
- $300 Seat Fee is deducted from Student’s first tuition payment
Assuming an average course load, tuition cost per term is $4,275
By selecting to take more or fewer courses per term, costs will be updated accordingly. A typical course is 3 credits. Students must complete 60 study credits.
A bursary of $7,500 may be available for BCA students.
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.
Term
Credits
Cost Per Credit
Fees
01
9
$475
$4,275
02
9
$475
$4,275
03
12
$475
$5,700
04
12
$475
$5,700
05
9
$475
$4,275
06
9
$475
$4,275
TOTAL
60
$475
$28,500
*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 and Rate Information
Changes to tuition rates will be announced at least three months before the start of the term to which they apply.
Arrangements for payment of tuition must be made at least two weeks before the start of each term (please see the Academic Schedule for deadlines). Monthly payment arrangements can also be made.
For further information about tuition, fees and payment methods, please contact Yorkville University’s Bursar’s Office at 1-888-886-1882.
Please contact an Admissions Advisor to learn more about financial aid options.
Total Cost (including Application and Seat Fees) is $28,650*
*Note: Total program cost may be reduced when applying applicable transfer credits. Costs below assumes full Program Cost without applicable transfer credits applied. The cost does not include textbooks, expendable supplies, equipment, and resource fees. To understand your specific Program Cost, please speak with an advisor.
- BCA Tuition: $28,500
- Cost per credit: $475
- Program cost includes $300 seat fee and $150 application fee
- $300 Seat Fee is deducted from Student’s first tuition payment
Assuming an average course load, tuition cost per term is $4,275
By selecting to take more or fewer courses per term, costs will be updated accordingly. A typical course is 3 credits. Students must complete 60 study credits.
A bursary of $7,500 may be available for BCA students.
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.
Term
Credits
Cost Per Credit
Fees
2
6
$475
$2,850
3
9
$475
$4,275
4
12
$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. 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 and Rate Information
Changes to tuition rates will be announced at least three months before the start of the term to which they apply.
Arrangements for payment of tuition must be made at least two weeks before the start of each term (please see the Academic Schedule for deadlines). Monthly payment arrangements can also be made.
For further information about tuition, fees and payment methods, please contact Yorkville University’s Bursar’s Office at 1-888-886-1882.
Please contact an Admissions Advisor to learn more about financial aid options.
Total Cost (including Application and Seat Fees) is $42,930*
*Note: Total program cost may be reduced when applying applicable transfer credits. Costs below assumes full Program Cost without applicable transfer credits applied. The cost does not include textbooks, expendable supplies, equipment, and resource fees. To understand your specific Program Cost, please speak with an advisor.
- BCA Tuition: $42,780
- Cost per credit: $713
- Program cost includes $300 seat fee and $150 application fee
- $300 Seat Fee is deducted from Student’s first tuition payment
Assuming an average course load, tuition cost per term is $6,417
By selecting to take more or fewer courses per term, costs will be updated accordingly. A typical course is 3 credits. Students must complete 60 study credits.
A bursary of $25,350 may be available for BCA students.
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.
Term
Credits
Cost Per Credit
Fees
01
9
$713
$6,417
02
9
$713
$6,417
03
12
$713
$8,556
04
12
$713
$8,556
05
9
$713
$6,417
06
9
$713
$6,417
TOTAL
60
$713
$42,780
*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 and Rate Information
Changes to tuition rates will be announced at least three months before the start of the term to which they apply.
Arrangements for payment of tuition must be made at least two weeks before the start of each term (please see the Academic Schedule for deadlines). Monthly payment arrangements can also be made.
For further information about tuition, fees and payment methods, please contact Yorkville University’s Bursar’s Office at 1-888-886-1882.
Please contact an Admissions Advisor to learn more about financial aid options.
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
BCAR3013 | Creative Arts in Cultural Context
This course provides an overview of social and cultural factors that influence and shape creativity and aesthetic perceptions. Students discuss theoretical perspectives on the relationship between culture and the arts and the effects of colonization, decolonization, and globalization on creativity and the arts. Particular attention is paid to the multi-cultural and indigenous contexts of the creative arts in Canada.
- Pre‐requisite(s): none
BCAR3023 | Creative Arts in Ethical and Legal Context
This course introduces students to the key ethical and legal rules, processes, and structures that affect creative artists in Canada. Topics include: the nature of ethical rules and legal rules; codes of ethics; cross-cultural ethical concerns; relevant laws relating to agency, contract, defamation, harassment, liability and negligence.
- Pre‐requisite(s): none
BCAR3043 | Research Methods for the Creative Arts
The focus of this course is accessing, assessing, and working with specialized information related to the arts. Topics include: accessing and evaluating publicly available information from government, industry, academic, and other sources; using Internet sources prudently and appropriately; generating data and information from surveys, focus groups, and interviews; effective communication of research results and analysis. During this course, each student will define and prepare a preliminary proposal for the graduating project to be completed in the final two terms of study.
- Pre‐requisite(s): English 101: Research and Composition
BCAR 3053 | Managing Talent and Arts Administration
This course introduces students to practices and issues related to managing people and interpersonal relations across the creative arts. In the overall context of creating a vision and fostering innovation and creativity, topics include: managing artists and arts-based organizations, coaching and motivating others, building effective teams, and managing negotiations, conflicts, crises, and social media.
- Pre‐requisite(s): none
BCAR3063 | Creative Arts in Political and Public Policy Context
This course introduces students to the public policy, statutory, regulatory, and political environment of the creative arts in Canada. Topics include: the roles of federal, provincial, and municipal governments with respect to the creative arts; the effect of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms on the creative arts; the making of arts policy in Canada, including the role of arts organizations and lobbyists; government arts agencies, including agencies for funding the arts; protection and regulation of intellectual property rights in Canada.
- Pre‐requisite(s): None
BCAR 3073 | Managing Projects in the Creative Arts
Many – perhaps most – undertakings in the creative arts are, essentially, projects. That is, they have a specific purpose, goal, or outcome, a life span with a terminal date, and typically bring together people and resources uniquely dedicated to achieving the desired outcome. In sum, these undertakings are neither permanent nor routine. This course takes students through the basic processes of managing projects in the creative arts – initiation, planning, implementation/execution, monitoring/controlling, and closing – and introduces them to some of the tools that facilitate effective planning and resource management.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
BCAR4013 | Financial Leadership for the Creative Arts
This course introduces students to processes, methods, and issues related to raising and managing the finances required for artistic activities and enterprises. Topics include: sources of public funding and preparation of effective applications for funding; fundraising; strategic and tactical planning, risk assessment and management; making business plans; expenditure management.
- Pre-requisite(s): BCAR 3063: Creative Arts in Political and Public Policy Context.
BCAR4023 | Criticism – Methods of Evaluating and Assessing Creative Activity
In this course, students examine theories and practices of criticism in the arts. Students read and discuss examples of criticism representing significant contemporary frameworks for understanding the arts (e.g., postmodernism). Students also develop and present critiques of contemporary works or bodies of work for class discussion.
- Pre-requisite(s): BCAR3043: Research Methods for the Creative Arts
BCAR4033 | Entrepreneurship and the Creative Arts
Building on previous courses in talent and financial management, this course focuses on the practical aspects of initiating, establishing, and developing artistic enterprises and activities. Topics include: opportunity recognition, feasibility study, risk, funding sources, marketing requirements, negotiations, and resource needs. Case studies are used.
- Pre-requisite(s): BCAR 3053: Managing Talent; BCAR 4013: Financial Leadership for the Creative Arts
BCAR4043 | Global Perspectives on the Creative Arts
In this course students examine the global nature of the creative arts. Topics include: the evolution of “the audience” for arts; the effects of globalization on theory and practice in creative arts; globalizing trends in entrepreneurship and management (finance, talent, distribution, marketing) in the creative arts.
- Prerequisite: BCAR 3013: Creative Arts in Cultural Context
BCAR4113 | Graduating Project 1
3 credits (core) (required)
This self-directed, thesis-style course allows students to draw together skills, knowledge, and insights acquired in previous courses and apply them to a topic related to the student’s professional specialization. Projects might be scholarly, taking the form of a senior undergraduate thesis, or they might be applied and professional, taking the form of a plan for a creative undertaking. Students are encouraged to work in groups and will come together in seminars to present and discuss their projects at crucial stages of development: topic identification; research outline; writing/production outline; final presentation.
- Prerequisite: BCAR 4023: Criticism.
*as a self-directed course there will be no weekly meetings for this class, rather occasional check-ins and arranged meetings with instructors as requested/needed
BCAR4123 | Graduating Project 2
3 credits (core) (required)
This course continues work begun in BCAR 4113: Graduating Project 1.
- Prerequisite: BCAR 4113: Graduating Project 1.
*as a self-directed course there will be no weekly meetings for this class, rather occasional check-ins and arranged meetings with instructors as requested/needed
General Studies Courses
ENGL101 | Research & Composition
This course builds on the conventions and techniques of composition through critical writing. Students apply principles of logic, strategic thinking, and synthesis to prepare sound arguments supported by relevant, well documented research. Students are encouraged to write extensively, in persuasive and analytic styles, on contemporary issues of interest to them, where individual style and unique thinking are demonstrated.
- Pre‐requisite(s): None
QRSS100 | Qualitative Research Methods for Social Science
This course explores the qualitative research methods that researchers use to answer empirical questions within the sphere of the social sciences, as well as within business and the humanities. It will teach students the basic knowledge and skills required to do qualitative research and to be intelligent consumers of others’ qualitative research. Topics include assessing existing research; collecting, analysing, and interpreting qualitative information; and methods to communicate research. By using a variety of research tools, students will explore how formulating sound qualitative research leads to objective and reliable outcomes. Students will also learn to identify ethical, ideological, empirical, and theoretical aspects of research, and recognize effective research.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
ARTH110 | Western Art – Prehistoric to Gothic
This course introduces students to the art and architecture of ancient societies from around the world, spanning pre-history to the fall of the Roman Empire. Using a broad, interdisciplinary approach, various art works are examined as emanations of a universal human condition and as unique expressions of culturally specific worldviews. After exploring various definitions of ‘art’ and an overview of the earliest emergence of art and artistic traits in human history, focus then turns toward the complexities of the ancient mind and ancient civilizations. Through the art and architecture of each historical period, students learn the symbolic ‘language’ through which ancient societies transmitted their most profound ideas. Greater fluency in this ancient symbolic language allows students to understand the differences between sacred, traditional theological and profane art and the concepts that define their original purposes.
- For BID students – Pre‐requisite(s): ENGL101
- For BBA Students – Pre-requisite(s): None
ARTH120 | Western Art – Renaissance to Contemporary
The road to understanding modern and contemporary art begins with a study of the evolution of the modern mind. The course begins by analyzing the transition from a medieval worldview to the emergence of a scientific outlook in the late 1400s. The Renaissance and the resurgence of ancient Classical learning are also examined for their influences on artistic and architectural styles, and for their adoption of and challenge to the dominant theological doctrines of the early Modern era. Finally, the art of the 20th, 21st centuries is explored as both a culmination of Postmodernism and ‘end’ to the traditional narrative of art history, signalling a growing desire to be inclusive to new media and globally diverse artists.
- For BID students – Pre‐requisite(s): ARTH110.
- For BBA Students – Pre-requisite(s): None.
ARTS101 | Principles of Art and Design
This course introduces students to the underlying principles of art and design. In this course, students will develop a critical understanding of the principles that form the foundation of many creative arts. Using a broad, interdisciplinary approach, various creative and artistic disciplines are examined as variations of applications of such artistic principles. These principles are in many ways the building blocks of all artistic creations, and to learn them is to better understand art creation itself. Students will explore various explanations of these ‘art principles’ and what these might look like in different times and spaces while making universal human connections.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
ARTS102 | Arts Industries in Canada – An Introduction and Overview
This course introduces students to the variety of art industries in Canada and furthermore describes the scope of the creative and artistic industries in Canada. Students develop a critical understanding of the factors that shape creative industries and the importance of these creative industries to the Canadian economy. Taking a broad view, the courses will examine a majority of the creative arts such as fine art, design studies, music, drama, dance. cinematics and photography, crafts, and creative/imaginative writing. Not only will students develop a deep understanding of the breadth of the Canadian arts industry, but also how to negotiate the art professional working landscape.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
ARTS 103 | Indigenous Perspectives on the Arts
Drawing on experiences of indigenous peoples in Canada and elsewhere, this course introduces students to the role the arts play in indigenous cultures and the impact of indigenous world views on the arts. Indigenous perspectives on the arts are examined in the contests of colonization, decolonization, self-determination, and reconciliation.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
CRIN110 | Creativity and Innovation
This course examines concepts and techniques widely applicable to personal life and business: individual creativity and innovation in organizations. It offers alternatives to standard models of decision making and formal critical thinking by describing imaginative ways of approaching problems. Students learn techniques of problem identification, idea generation, idea selection, and idea implementation. The course teaches problem-solving practices and varied strategies that release individual creativity and encourage innovation within organizational structures. Emphasis is placed on how creative and innovative solutions can be found to problems that are inadequately addressed by Cartesian thinking processes and the debunking of common myths held about creative individuals and organizations. Students are instructed in a variety of concepts and practical methods that they can apply to their studies, work, and personal lives.
- Pre-requisite(s): None
ENGL150 | Professional Communication
This course extends composition and research principles to writing in a career context. Students apply principles of economy and clarity to create business documents that are informative and persuasive. While the course focuses on business messaging, it also includes formal research report writing, as well as the planning and delivery of oral presentations.
- For BID students – Pre‐requisite(s): ENGL101
- For BBA students – Pre-requisite(s): None
COMM100 | Cross Cultural Communication
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts as well as practical aspects of cross-cultural communication. The course involves a survey of the key concepts in cross-cultural communication, which could be applied to a wide range of communication contexts both academic and workplace. To understand culture in terms of diversity and subcultures in a global context, the course features cross-cultural communication in relation to language, culture, and discourse practices. The course utilizes a practice-oriented format to develop cross-cultural communication skills by means of presentations, analysis, and application.
UNIV101 | University Studies
University Studies offers students the opportunity to become familiar with the undergraduate academic environment and learn how to navigate institutional procedures and services. Students learn essential academic and personal skills that will allow them to perform successfully in a highly demanding academic setting. Particular focus will be placed on the effective use of technology and social media. The multiple learning formats included in the course will facilitate the transition to the diverse learning-delivery methods commonly used in Canadian colleges and universities.
GEOG210 | Human Geography
Human geography examines how people, their communities, and cultures interact within physical geographic space. It looks at how the spatial environment affects key categories of human activities. The course includes an overview of the location, flow, and uses of the earth’s principle resources, both natural and human. How the physical characteristics of the earth’s surface affect political, social, cultural, demographic, and economic dynamics throughout the world is emphasized, and the potential effects of ecological threats are explored.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
ECON211 | Microeconomics
This course teaches the theory and concepts of microeconomics within the context of market decisions. It examines the concepts of supply and demand; pricing and elasticity; consumer behaviour and its impact on economic decisions; market structures that form the basis for various levels of competition; different types of markets, including labour and factor markets; and the role of government as it relates to microeconomic policy. It synthesizes theoretical concepts and examples of everyday events.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
ENGL250 | The Workplace in Fiction
This course explores the workplace through its expression in the imaginative fiction of literature, film, and essays. Students will study poems, plays, short stories, films, and essays with themes or storylines that emanate from the workplace. Students will read, view, interpret, and analyze fiction relating to the workplace in order to understand the connections between occupation and personal identity and the connections between social and personal significance. Students will note and discuss trends in society that are illustrated by business and workplace attitudes and portrayed in creative fiction.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
HIST300 | The History of Sport
This course explores the history of sport and athletics, ranging from the oldest forms of recreation to modern professional sports. It examines the established historical record, but also examines how we determine these facts through interpretation. By synthesizing the practice of sports with various theories of practicing history, students learn to evaluate historical claims that are often disguised in the playful focus of sports. Through such an analysis of historical sports, students develop a critical awareness of the social and ethical issues around such key aspects of human and social life.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
PHIL300 | Philosophical Thought and Leisure
This course uses philosophy and philosophical thinking and applies it to an examination of leisure. Students will learn to adopt a philosophical approach, examining and reflecting upon the role of leisure today in what makes the good life. The relationship between philosophy, the good life, and leisure act as a framework for examining key philosophical issues, such as ethics, education, religion, aesthetics and art, health, politics, and consumerism.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
SOCI300 | Sociology and Culture
This course explores some of the major issues affecting society and culture. It draws upon the discipline of sociology providing students with analytic tools to critically explore their contemporary social and cultural world. The course includes topics such as culture, socialization, social structure and class, stratification, institutions, urbanization and the environment as they affect Canadian society.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
PSYC200 | Psychology of Everyday Life
This course provides an overview of the field of psychology as it pertains to everyday life. Research methods and scientific reasoning form the foundation of the discipline, and the course begins by asking: How is psychology a science, and why is this important? The course covers several domains of the discipline: health psychology, consciousness, memory, life span development, motivation and emotion, personality, psychological disorders, therapy, and social psychology. While specific topics will vary from domain to domain, students will explore how each domain relies on the same underlying scientific principles and research methods to answer questions about the mind and behaviour. Within each domain, certain overlapping themes will also be highlighted. The course is grounded on the premise that within these domains, psychology is a route for effecting change and gaining some measure of control over our lives.
- Pre-requisite(s): One Tier 1 course
SOCI200 | Global Issues in Sociology
This course brings together key perspectives in sociology to provide students with an overview of contemporary global issues influencing people’s everyday lives. By combining theoretically oriented explanations, empirical evidence, and case studies within the field, students will learn to use the sociological imagination to address current events and issues affecting to world around us. Some topics covered in the course include migration and social mobility; climate change and natural disasters; pandemics and diseases; digital technology and mass media; and the digital divide.
- Pre‐requisite(s): One Tier 1 courses
HUMN422 | Topics in Technology and Society
In this interdisciplinary, integrative course, the relationship between technology and society is investigated through readings, reflection, assignments, class discussion, and a formal research essay. The course identifies conditions that have promoted technological development and assesses its social, political, environmental, psychological, and economic effects. Issues of power and control and consideration of the effects of technologies on the human condition are primary themes. Written discussions, assignments, and the writing of a formal research essay draw together students’ prior learning in other general education courses.
- Pre‐requisite(s): Two Tier 2 courses
HUMN430 | Topics in Power and Society
In this interdisciplinary, integrative course, power, its meaning and its exercise between human beings and groups is investigated through readings, reflection, assignments, class discussion, and a formal research essay. The course describes a variety of taxonomies by which power can defined and understood. Students look to the socially-based sources of power as well as the reasons individuals and groups acquiesce to power. Power is shown as a defining characteristic in all human activities by drawing on a wide array of social science and humanities scholarly material.
- Pre‐requisite(s): Two Tier 2 courses
HUMN450 | Design Thinking
Design thinking is a creative problem-solving process used in a wide variety of disciplines. This course gives students a broad conceptual understanding of the theories and philosophies that form the foundation of the design thinking process, building towards a practical application of the methods to tackle, rethink, or solve a problem.
- Pre‐requisite(s): Two Tier 2 courses
HUMN440 | Smart and Sustainable Cities
In this course students explore, evaluate, and critique the concepts and possibilities for creating smart cities to meet social, environmental, and economic sustainability goals. Smart cities use digitized electronic information and communication technologies (ICT), internet of things (IoT) devices and networks, urban analytics, and ‘smart governance’ to monitor, manage, and enhance urban services; improve urban livability; facilitate urban environmental sustainability; and improve the economic efficiency and productivity of cities. Combining smart city methods with public policy goals based on sustainability objectives, two primary innovations in cities – the exploding possibilities created by ICT and the ethical necessity of focusing on sustainability in city functions -are investigated. This class will look at the theories, strategies, and existing frameworks of smart and sustainable city innovations as they can enhance urban life now and into the future.
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
Partnerships
Articulation Partners
Previous students of select colleges have the opportunity to transfer credits towards Yorkville University’s programs and graduate faster.
Canadian Forces
Special tuition bursaries and military training credit transfer options are offered to current and former Canadian Forces members and their families.
Testimonials
Reeth Mazumder-Roberts
Bachelor of Creative Arts Valedictorian, Screenwriter, Director, Producer and Documentarian
“Understanding the business side behind multiple artistic genres has opened a whole new world for me. I developed five projects during my time at Yorkville, each of which is either being made or is now in its funding stage.”
Reeth Mazumder-Roberts
Bachelor of Creative Arts Valedictorian, Screenwriter, Director, Producer and Documentarian
Olayimika Jinmi-Ahisu
BCA Student, Selected into OYA Emerging Filmmakers Program
“Everyone makes each meeting feel like home; like I’m a part of a community. We are all at a point as emerging filmmakers where we need each other to attain the next stage in our careers.”
Olayimika Jinmi-Ahisu
BCA Student, Selected into OYA Emerging Filmmakers Program
FAQ
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
