Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECU) has re‑launched HeadStart in Art as a provincial Dual Credit pathway in partnership with the Vancouver, Surrey and Coquitlam school districts, announcing that the program’s first on‑campus cohort will begin in Fall 2026.

The program will bring 40 Grade 12 students to ECU’s campus for an immersive university experience, shifting delivery from the participating school districts to the university environment. HeadStart in Art enables students to earn high school graduation credits while completing three first‑year ECU credits that apply toward a bachelor’s degree. Participants are also eligible for a portfolio waiver when applying to ECU.

ECU describes the first‑year course, Creative Processes (FNDT 108), as hands‑on and practice‑based. Students will take part in collaborative projects, individual assignments, peer reviews, discussions, research and studio sessions designed to teach iteration, experimentation and problem‑solving in the making and study of art.

The university framed the initiative as timely, citing the BC Labour Market Outlook’s projection of more than 42,600 job openings in art, culture and related occupations over the next decade. ECU said the program is intended to expand access to art and design education and to create earlier pathways into post‑secondary creative study.

“Art and design communities thrive when new voices enter the studio and curiosity meets craft. This dual credit program is about reaching further, starting earlier and building learning pathways to university‑level art and design education,” said Diyan Achjadi, Vice‑President Academic + Provost of Emily Carr University. “In our 100th year, expanding access to our creative community with strengthened partnerships provides new opportunities to nurture emerging talent.”

HeadStart in Art is open to Grade 12 students enrolled in the participating districts who meet the academic and program requirements; tuition for eligible students is covered. Families and interested students are asked to contact their school district’s Career Education Office — Vancouver, Surrey or Coquitlam — for details about eligibility, application steps and timelines.