Explore, create and grow in two weeks of art + design.
The Junior Arts Institute (JAI) is an immersive program for students ages 13–15. Guided by practicing artists and designers, participants build confidence, make friends and explore new skills in a supportive studio environment. The program also prepares students for future study, including the Summer Institute for Teens, and concludes with a public exhibition at ECU.
Registration is open for Summer 2026.
What Students Will Learn
- Core skills in drawing, painting, design, animation, and more
- How to explore ideas through hands-on projects with professional instructors
- Basics of collaboration, critique, and presentation in a supportive setting
- Early preparation for future creative programs, including SIT
Program Highlights
- Two-week immersive program for ages 13–15
- Studio learning in drawing, illustration, animation, motion graphics, and design
- Inclusive community where students build skills, confidence, and friendships
- Optional public exhibition of student work
- Certificate of Completion upon successful participation
Program Structure + Tuition Fees
Students in the Junior Arts Institute pick one course per block for this program. Once selected, students remain in the course for the full duration of the Junior Arts Institute. Students are not permitted to transfer or changes courses once the program has started.
JAI Courses
Block One 4 Courses
| Course Name | Course No. | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Drawing + Painting | CSJA-100 | Summer 2026 |
| Drawing + Illustration | CSJA-102 | Summer 2026 |
| Interior + Urban Design | CSJA-106 | Summer 2026 |
| Characters + Graphic Novel | CSJA-115 | Summer 2026 |
Block Two 4 Courses
| Course Name | Course No. | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Drawing + Painting | CSJA-100 | Summer 2026 |
| Mixed Media + Sculpture | CSJA-101 | Summer 2026 |
| Illustration + Animation | CSJA-105 | Summer 2026 |
| Animation + Motion Graphics | CSJA-112 | Summer 2026 |
Tuition Fees
| Domestic | International | |
| Early Bird Tuition* | $1,360.60 CAD | $1,564.60 CAD |
| Regular Tuition | $1,560.60 CAD | $1,764.60 CAD |
*Save $200 if you register by February 28, 2026.
Registration and Refund Policies
Registration Policy
Seats are limited per studio, so registration is first come, first served. Once you have completed your registration and submitted payment, a final registration confirmation will be sent to you within 5 business days.
Withdrawals + Refunds – Block 1
- Withdrawal requests received prior to February 28th are eligible for a tuition refund less a $35 administrative fee
- Withdrawal requests received between March 1 – June 14 are eligible for a tuition refund less a $500 administrative fee
- Withdrawal requests received June 15 onwards, are not eligible for refund.
Withdrawals + Refunds – Block 2
- Withdrawal requests received prior to February 28th are eligible for a tuition refund less a $35 administrative fee
- Withdrawal requests received between March 1 – June 28 are eligible for a tuition refund less a $500 administrative fee
- Withdrawal requests received June 29 onwards, are not eligible for refund.
Your JAI Program Experience
Check out the JAI Handbook for complete details.
What additional fees and costs can I expect to pay?
+ Materials
You will need to source your own supplies for your studio. The cost of materials will vary by studio, but on average, you can expect to spend up to $150 in studio-specific supplies. You are welcome to use materials you already have at home. A materials list will be provided to you in your welcome package prior to the start of the program.
+ Software and Equipment
ECU will provide access to the required software, equipment and computers for on-campus courses.
Students registered for online studios are responsible for securing access to any devices required to participate in their studio. ECU will provide access to any required software(s) for the duration of the program.
+ Transportation
Students registered in on-campus studios are expected to cover their own transportation costs.
Do you offer financial aid or scholarships?
We offer two JAI scholarships for students of Indigenous ancestry. Successful recipients will receive one scholarship for one course.
Scholarship applications are accepted up to March 1. Scholarship recipients will be notified by March 31.
Accessibility + Learning Supports + Library Access
Student Accessibility Services provides classroom support for students with speech, hearing, visual, physical, mental health, and neurological disabilities as well as chronic health conditions, acquired brain injury or temporary disabilities.
To request support, visit Student Accessibility Services, download and complete the Accessibility Request form, and submit it to studentaccessibility@ecuad.ca before your course begins. Once your documentation is reviewed, a member of our team will contact you to set up an appointment.
As a Summer Institute for Teens (SIT) student, you also have access to the Emily Carr Library as a Community Borrower. Learn more about your borrowing privileges.
Attendance + Absences
Attendance is taken at the start of each class and again after the lunch break. If a student has not arrived or returned within 15 minutes of the start time, instructors or program assistants will notify the Continuing Studies team. Parents or guardians will be contacted if we have not received prior notice of the absence.
If you know you’ll be away, please let us know in advance by phone or email. All attendance exceptions must be communicated to program staff at teens@ecuad.ca or 604-844-3879. If something unexpected comes up, parents or guardians should contact us with details and when to expect the student back in class.
Missing classes can make it harder to keep up with coursework and peers. If you must miss class, check in with your instructor to catch up on assignments or important studio information.
What happens if a studio is cancelled?
Sometimes, due to low enrolment, a studio may be cancelled. Students registered in the cancelled studios will be contacted with information about all available studios, and can be transferred to a new studio.
Is there accommodations and are meals provided?
Housing + Accommodations
ECU does not provide on or off campus accommodations, so you are responsible to find your own appropriate housing. If you are from out of town, you may choose to stay with a family member or friend, or find temporary housing with a parent or guardian for the duration of the program.
Note to parents: If your child is travelling unaccompanied to Vancouver, please be advised that students under the age of 18 must have a pre-arranged appointed custodian/guardian who will be responsible for them during their stay, in order to enter Canada. Visit the Government of Canada- Minor Children travelling to Canada page for more information.
For information on local housing options, neighbourhoods, and homestay resources, visit our ECU Off-Campus Housing Page.
Meals
Lunch is not provided, but you have access to the food services available in or around the ECU campus. View food service options.
Additional lunch time talks and programming may be scheduled over the course of the month and students are encouraged to attend.
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.
