Advanced Visual Effects (VFX) and Virtual Production

Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary provides a student-centered, career-focused education designed for practical outcomes. Founded in 1965, the college emphasizes small classes, applied learning and strong support services, serving a diverse community with programs aligned to local and global labour needs. Its compact urban location gives students access to Calgary’s business and cultural scene while benefiting from a close-knit campus atmosphere.

Programs at Bow Valley prioritize employability through practicum placements, industry-relevant curricula and active partnerships with employers. Faculty and staff bring real-world experience to the classroom, and the college’s high graduate employment rate reflects its commitment to career-ready training. Support services, language instruction and workshops ensure students develop both technical skills and the intercultural competencies needed to succeed in multicultural workplaces.

International students will find resources to help with transition, including advising, orientation and opportunities to engage in volunteer and campus activities that build networks and professional experience. The college’s focus on affordability and transfer pathways also makes it attractive for those planning further study in Canada. If you want a practical, supportive environment with direct links to employment, Bow Valley College offers a purposeful route to skills, credentials and local industry connections.

Students work on modelling, sculpting, texturing, lighting, compositing, FX, and 3D matte painting using industry-standard tools. They gain hands-on experience in cinematography, data capture, match moving, and basic scripting. Projects include preparing, modifying, and filming VFX assets in team-based environments. By the end, students create a professional demo reel with individual and group work.

6 Terms, full-time, no co-op or practicum stated.

Graduates enter careers in VFX, games, and virtual production.

High School Diploma or equivalent, or English 30-1, English 30-2, or satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admission and Placement Test. Portfolio of 15 to 20 digital artistic pieces required. International students must meet country-specific document requirements.

On-campus, full-time, 2 years.