BC's creative sector is growing fast, but it needs more than just talent-it needs professionals who have integrated knowledge and skillsets in technology, creativity, and business. This is why BCIT launched the Bachelor of Creative Industries (BCI)-the first degree program of its kind in Western Canada. It is an interdisciplinary program that prepares graduates to lead and innovate in the evolving creative economy.
Offered through the BCIT School of Business + Media, the full-time program spans 60 credits over 15 months. Designed for individuals with prior education or experience in creative fields, it builds on existing skills through a multidisciplinary curriculum that integrates business, technology, and the arts. Students learn to blend advanced research and production techniques with strategic thinking and hands-on industry experience. Curriculum topics include entrepreneurship, design thinking, project management, ethics, communication, and finance.
Filling the gap
The program's launch comes at a time of significant opportunity within British Columbia's creative sector. This sector contributed $6.7 billion to the province's gross domestic product (GDP in 2022 and employs over 89,000 individuals, making it a critical part of British Columbia's economy. At the same time, WorkBC projects that 60% of upcoming job openings will result from retirements, emphasizing the need to prepare a new generation of skilled, future-ready professionals. BCI is strategically designed to help meet the evolving needs of this robust industry by developing adaptive, forward-thinking leaders. The curriculum highlights the interconnected nature of technology, strategy, and creativity-giving students a well-rounded skillset to turn bold ideas into real-world impact.
"Creative industries are constantly evolving-and to keep pace, today's professionals need more than just artistic talent," says Susannah Skerl, Associate Dean, Digital Arts, Media and Design. "They need to understand technology, strategy, and how to connect their ideas to meaningful outcomes. This program gives them the tools to do just that."
Gain experience in the creative industry
BCI students will explore contemporary workflows, production methodologies, and trend forecasting, while gaining hands-on experience through a capstone project with an industry partner. This real-world collaboration challenges students to identify a complex problem, propose actionable solutions, and bring their ideas to life-preparing them to lead transformative initiatives in diverse creative fields.
A competitive work-integrated learning (WIL) component is also available after completing the academic portion of the program. Students may undertake a 300-hour internship with a creative industry organization, either locally or abroad.
Ready to lead
Graduates of the program will be well positioned to pursue roles in their areas of expertise such as digital media, marketing, design, and interactive technologies. Career opportunities include:
- Creative/Artistic Director
- Advertising Manager
- Layout Designer
- Studio Head
- Marketing Manager
- Agency / Startup Founder
Applications are now open for the September 2025 intake.
For more information
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby British Columbia
Canada V5G 3H2
www.bcit.ca/
