Careers in concept art and entertainment design

NPC College graduates are prepared to work as entry-level concept artists in the animation, film, TV and game industries. A Career Services advisor meets every student one-on-one before graduation.

Vehicle concept painting of a dark streamlined starship flying above storm clouds
Student work

Career path

The Concept Design Diploma Program is an intensive program that welcomes aspiring artists who are interested in concept art design. During the program, students develop a variety of design skills, such as 2D and 3D environment design, character modelling, lighting, texturing, concept design and portfolio, under the direct supervision of industry instructors.

At NPC College, our instructors will do everything they can to help students build marketable skills and the mental toughness to compete in the real world. But the support does not end there. Our Career Services team offers a bundle of valuable resources to help students plan and launch their professional future.

As students approach graduation and the job market, each student meets one-on-one with a Career Services advisor to talk about career goals and job-search strategy, interview techniques and their resume.

Jobs our graduates train for

Upon graduation, students are capable of working as entry-level concept artists in the animation, film, TV and game industries. Jobs include:

  • Character Designer
  • Environment Designer
  • Prop and Vehicle Designer
  • Creature Designer
  • Concept Art Generalist
  • Art Director
  • Color Key Artist
  • Costume and Set Designer
  • Matte Painter
  • Illustrator
  • Storyboard Artist
Environment concept painting of a red timber shrine house in a mountain valley

Local employers

Metro Vancouver is one of the largest animation, visual effects and game production centres in the world. Studios with a presence here include:

  • Mainframe Studios
  • Atomic Cartoons
  • WildBrain
  • ICON Creative Studio
  • Sony Pictures Imageworks
  • Digital Domain
  • Animal Logic
  • Bardel Entertainment
  • Waterproof Studios

Listed as examples of local employers in the industry. NPC College is not affiliated with these studios.

Preparing for the job search

The final term of each program is built around the job search: portfolio preparation, a personal website, artist statement, resume and cover letter, company research and interview practice.

Guide: how to become a concept artist

Start your application

Applications for the September 2027 intake are open. The early admission deadline is March 1, 2027 and the regular deadline is July 1, 2027.

Apply nowBook a campus visit