The Langara Centre for Entertainment Arts, which opened on September 12, offers diplomas in advanced 3D animation, VFX, Game Design as well as a Foundation in Entertainment Arts Certificate. 

So far 74 students have signed up for courses and are set to study a curriculum that has been licensed from the Academy of Art in San Francisco. 

“It’s fantastic to see so many nationalities in our classrooms”

Upon graduation, international students will be eligible to apply for a two to three year post-graduation work permit.

 “It’s fantastic to see so many nationalities in our classrooms. Canadian artists and designers are studying next to their peers from India, Africa, Latin America, and other places,” said Peter Walsh, campus director.

“The exchange of styles and creativity that is taking place in the class will produce industry-ready graduates. Instructors are already impressed with the overall talent pool in this first group. The rigorous portfolio screening has been the key.”

Last month, students were visited by Emmy Award winning visual effects supervisors Thomas Schelesny and Mohsen Mousavi whose credits include Game of Thrones. 

Schelesny and Mousavi, who sit on the centre’s advisory board, spoke about their work and how they won their awards. 

“It’s hugely inspiring to have people from the industry come in and speak to us,” said one student, Alex Dault from Barrie, Ontario.

“The networking opportunities at this school are off the charts.”

During the centre’s opening ceremony, a statue of Marvel character Thanos was presented by Jan Philip Cramer, who has worked on Hollywood blockbuster Avengers: Infinity War.

The event was attended by 250 guests from the entertainment arts and education sectors.