Spend your spring break with Emily Carr University!
Our week-long camps inspire creativity, encourage exploration and connect young artists and designers. Each course introduces popular art and design practices through hands-on classes led by professional creative educators.
Open to students ages 15–18 (Grades 9–12), the program builds foundational skills, nurtures creative process, and makes spring break both fun + rewarding.
What Students Will Learn
- Experiment with new tools, materials and techniques
- Build core skills in drawing, painting, illustration and design
- Explore how ideas move from concept to finished work
- Develop your creative voice in a supportive studio environment
Program Highlights
- One-week, full-day camps during spring break
- Sign up for one or both weeks
- Small class sizes with guidance from practicing artists and designers
- Courses in drawing, painting, illustration, character design, environment concept art and industrial design
- A fun, inspiring and memorable way to spend your spring break
In Others’ Words
“It definitely felt like I was learning what studying art at university would be like. I now know so much more, and I’ve done so much art, it felt like a really good experience.”
Blake Kobel
Digital Illustration Student, SIT
Courses
Week One: March 16 – 20, 2026
Course Selections 3 Courses
| Course Name | Course No. | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Drawing | CSSB-100 | Spring 2026 |
| Illustration | CSSB-105 | Spring 2026 |
| Industrial Design | CSSB-114 | Spring 2026 |
Week Two: March 23 – 27, 2026
Course Selections 3 Courses
| Course Name | Course No. | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Painting | CSSB-103 | Spring 2026 |
| Character Illustration | CSSB-106 | Spring 2026 |
| Environment Concept Art | CSSB-107 | Spring 2026 |
Withdrawals + Additional Costs
Withdrawals + Refunds
If you need to withdraw, requests must be received at least seven (7) days before the course start date. You’ll receive a refund minus a $35 administration fee per course. Refunds are processed to the original form of payment, or by cheque, and may take up to four weeks plus mailing time. Please submit requests by email.
If you would like to switch courses, your request must also be received at least seven (7) days before the course start date. Switching is treated as a withdrawal and new registration, and a $35 administration fee will apply.
Additional Costs
Transportation: Students attending on-campus studios are responsible for their own transportation costs.
Materials: You’ll need to purchase your own supplies, which may cost up to $80 depending on the studio. A materials list will be provided before the program, and you’re welcome to use materials you already have at home.
Software + Equipment: ECU provides all required equipment for on-campus studios and software access for the duration of the program. Students in online studios are responsible for securing their own devices.
FAQs
What happens if the course I want to take is full?
If a course you are interested in taking is full, you can join the waitlist. There is no cost and you are not obligated to register if a spot becomes available. You cannot attend classes if you are on a waitlist.
If a spot becomes available, we will contact you. If you would like to attend, you will be asked for payment information in order to hold the spot.
Are meals provided?
Lunch is not provided, but you have access to the food services available in or around the ECU campus. View food service options.
Get the Latest Updates
Our Youth Programs programs are always evolving. Sign up today to be the first in line for new courses and upcoming registration dates.
