Life at ECU

Creating + Learning

An instructor and a student talk in a ceramics studio beside a wall display of colorful glaze tiles arranged in a gradient. The instructor points to a section of blue tiles while the student listens and smiles, wearing a light blue shirt and apron.
Life at ECU

Creating + Learning

Overview

Spaces for learning, making + discovery.

Learning at Emily Carr University is hands-on, collaborative and driven by curiosity. Across our shops, studios, libraries and classrooms, you’ll find spaces that invite experimentation and exploration.

Here, creativity meets practice—guided by expert faculty, supported by dedicated staff and fueled by the energy of a thriving artistic community.

A person in a photography studio taking pictures of ceramic vases on a white backdrop, surrounded by studio lights and equipment.
Person in a workshop wearing safety glasses and overalls stands smiling at a workbench. The background wall is covered with geometric wooden panels, tools and a colourful sign that reads “PAINT.”

Shops + Studios

Emily Carr University is home to more than 20 unique art, design and media production environments. Our shops, studios and labs provide the space, tools and technical expertise students need to develop their creative practice.

  • Explore traditional painting and drawing studios, woodworking and ceramics shops and advanced labs for design, animation and film
  • Learn from expert technical staff who ensure safe, accessible and supportive working environments
  • Access campus resources including the Tool Checkout, Digital Output Centre (DOC) and Media Resources Centre
Explore Shops + Studios

Library + Archives

Located at the heart of campus, the ECU Library + Archives fosters research, creativity and innovation in a dynamic learning environment. Explore collections, resources and expert guidance designed to help you learn, make and discover.

  • Borrow books, films, artists’ books and materials across art, design and media
  • Access helpful Service Desk staff for borrowing, printing or research support
  • Explore the Archives to uncover ECU’s history from 1925
  • Find guides, tutorials and classroom resources to enrich teaching and learning
Go to the Library
Interior photo of ECU’s campus architecture with wide open space, tall windows, and exposed beams.
Two people sit at a small table in the Writing Centre, working together on a laptop. The wall behind them reads “Welcome to the Writing Centre” with bright name signs, posters, and a clock.

Writing Centre

Strengthen your writing and communication skills with support from trained peer tutors. The Writing Centre helps you express your ideas with clarity and confidence—no matter your discipline or experience level.

  • Get feedback at any stage, from brainstorming to final drafts
  • Work on essays, artist statements, grant applications and studio assignments
  • Meet tutors in person or online, or drop in for quick helps.
Visit the Writing Centre

Teaching + Learning Centre

The Teaching + Learning Centre helps faculty and instructors build engaging, inclusive learning environments.

  • Access resources for course design and curriculum development
  • Learn strategies for accessibility, decolonization and academic integrity
  • Get support using online and classroom technologies
Teaching + Learning Centre
An instructor sits at the front of a studio classroom, speaking to a group of students who are gathered around him.
A student presents a wall installation of prints to a small audience during Crit Night at Emily Carr University.

Exhibition + Community Spaces

Find spaces that bring ideas to life. ECU’s exhibition and community areas support creativity, collaboration and connection across campus.

  • Exhibit work in professional, student and public galleries
  • Book spaces for critiques, talks or creative gatherings
  • Get support from the Exhibitions and Scheduling offices to plan your event
Visit Exhibition + Community Spaces

Important Dates

More Community Updates
More Community Updates