Emily Carr University of Art + Design Career Skills

Where to study Canadian universities Emily Carr University of Art + Design Career skills

Career skills at Emily Carr University of Art + Design

At Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU), you’ll build your portfolio through hands-on learning and real partnerships with industry, community organizations and cultural institutions.

ECU graduates have gone on to launch their own creative businesses and work for leading organizations including Microsoft, IKEA, Pixar, Ubisoft, EA and CBC.

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During your degree
After your degree

During your degree

At ECU, learning happens by making. You’ll develop your creative practice through hands-on projects, professional experiences and opportunities to connect with people working across the creative industries.

ECU’s Career Development + Work Integrated Learning team can help you build the skills, experience and professional network you’ll need for life after university.

While you’re an ECU student, you’ll benefit from:

Paid Work Experience Program placements that earn degree credit

Real-world briefs and projects with industry and community partners

One-to-one connections with creative employers at Creative Industry Day

Portfolio feedback from professional curators and gallerists at Crit Night

Career guidance, workshops and employment opportunities through ECU’s career resources

Research assistant and partnership opportunities tackling real-world challenges

Get a part-time job while you study

Eligible international students can work on or off campus while studying in Canada. Students who meet Canadian eligibility requirements can work off campus for up to 24 hours per week during regular academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

Working while you study can help you gain experience, develop professional skills and contribute towards your living expenses.

What is the Work Experience Program?

ECU’s Work Experience Program gives eligible undergraduate students the opportunity to earn degree credit while gaining paid, real-world professional experience.

You could find yourself designing an installation, developing a prototype or contributing to a creative project for an employer. Placements help you strengthen your portfolio, explore career options and build professional connections before you graduate.

Students can earn up to 9 credits through the program, with employers including Microsoft, EA and the City of Vancouver.

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Take your next step with ECU

Your career journey doesn’t have to end when you graduate. Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), giving you the opportunity to gain professional experience in Canada.

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What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit?

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200+ Work Integrated Learning placements

given out to ECU students each year

91% more likely to find work in their field

for students participating in Work Integrated Learning, compared with 71% for those who don’t (2023 Data Report)

CAD$3,552 average monthly salary

for undergraduate co-op students

40 expert technicians

supporting students as they develop, test and produce their creative work

$3.1M+ in annual research funding

supporting practice-based research and opportunities to contribute to funded projects

#7 in the world for Animation

Animation Career Review 2026

After graduation

ECU’s Career Development + Work Integrated Learning resources can help you explore opportunities and prepare for professional life, while the connections you make with employers, alumni and creative communities can continue to support your career.

How ECU can help you:

Career resources and opportunities through The Leeway
Connections with ECU alumni working across the creative industries
Professional networks developed through industry events and real-world projects
Experience working with businesses, non-profits, cultural institutions and community organizations
Opportunities to develop entrepreneurial skills and turn your creative practice into a business