Six programs for the next generation of designers, content creators, animators, game developers, and storytellers. Graduate with a professional portfolio.
| Program | Credential | Duration | Domestic Tuition | Intake | Portfolio Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Media & Design | Diploma | 2 years | $5,600/yr | Fall | No (exit portfolio required) |
| Photography & Video | Certificate | 1 year | $5,200 | Fall | No (exit portfolio required) |
| Social Media & Content Marketing | Certificate | 8 months | $3,800 | Fall & Winter | No |
| Animation & Motion Graphics | Certificate | 1 year | $4,900 | Fall | Yes (creative portfolio) |
| Game Design & Development | Certificate | 1 year | $5,000 | Fall | No (published game capstone) |
| Interior Design Fundamentals | Certificate | 8 months | $3,800 | Fall | No |
The most comprehensive creative credential at BrightlyEd. This two-year diploma covers the full spectrum of digital design: graphic design principles, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, XD), UI/UX design, brand identity development, print production, web design, video editing (Premiere Pro), and motion graphics (After Effects). Year 2 includes a capstone client project in which students design and deliver a complete brand identity package for a real Calgary business.
From DSLR and mirrorless camera operation to lighting, post-production, and video storytelling — this one-year certificate prepares students for commercial photography and video production careers. Students gain hands-on experience in our professional studio, on location throughout Calgary, and in our colour grading suite. The program covers portrait, product, architectural, and event photography alongside videography, lighting design, and Adobe Lightroom and Premiere Pro editing.
Every business needs a digital presence, and skilled social media and content marketers are in high demand across all industries. This eight-month certificate covers content strategy, copywriting, SEO, paid social advertising (Meta Ads, Google Ads, TikTok Ads), analytics (Google Analytics 4, Meta Business Suite), email marketing, influencer partnerships, and social media management tools (Hootsuite, Buffer, Later). Graduates leave with a complete content portfolio and hands-on ad campaign experience with a real budget.
SOCM 200 is unique in post-secondary education — students manage a real advertising campaign for a Calgary business partner with a $500–$1,000 budget. You make real decisions, track real metrics, and present results to the actual client. This experience is what sets BrightlyEd grads apart in interviews.
Animation and motion graphics are everywhere — from broadcast television and streaming platforms to YouTube explainer videos, app onboarding sequences, and social media ads. This one-year certificate covers the principles of animation, character design, 2D animation in After Effects, frame-by-frame illustration in Procreate/Animate, 3D modeling basics in Cinema 4D, and sound design. Students graduate with a demo reel and a demonstrated ability to create professional-quality animated content.
A portfolio of creative work (drawing, digital art, or design) is required with your application. Portfolio review is conducted by the program coordinator. Work does not need to be digital — traditional sketchbook work, photography, or hand-lettering all qualify.
The global video game industry generates over $200 billion annually. This brand-new one-year certificate teaches game design theory, Unity engine development, C# scripting, 2D and 3D game creation, level design, and quality assurance. The graduation requirement is unique: students must publish their capstone game on Steam or Itch.io, ensuring every graduate has a publicly available, commercially deployed project in their portfolio.
Students publish their capstone game on Steam or Itch.io as part of the graduation requirement. BrightlyEd covers the Steam Direct fee ($100 USD) for enrolled students. Every graduate has a publicly released, commercially deployed game in their portfolio — a major differentiator when applying for jobs.
This eight-month certificate provides a thorough grounding in interior design principles — from space planning and AutoCAD drafting to colour theory, materials specification, lighting design, SketchUp 3D rendering, and sustainable design. Students complete a full residential design project in the final semester. This is a foundation credential for students who wish to pursue further education in interior design or enter supporting roles in the design and furnishings industry.
The Interior Design Fundamentals Certificate is a foundation credential — it does not qualify graduates to use the title "Interior Designer" in provinces where it is regulated. Students who wish to practise as a registered interior designer should plan for further education at a degree-granting institution.
Applications for Fall 2025 are now open. Seats fill quickly in our creative programs — apply early to secure your spot.