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OCAD U's commitment

We’re committed to offering graduates extended access to career-related services and supports. It’s our mission to help OCAD U alums get meaningful jobs, set up businesses and advance their professional practice!

This initiative is being realized through various collaborative efforts at OCAD U, as well as with the generous support of key external partners. The OCAD U commitment offers extended access to crucial career-related services and supports for new graduates for the first year after you receive your degree.

We also offer Embarking on your Creative Career, an all-in-one online career development resource on Canvas which connects grads to the resources needed at every stage of creative career development.
 

Who qualifies?


The OCAD U commitment began officially in Spring 2019 and will be available to future graduating years. While the emphasis here is on a “one-year” access period, many of the valuable services and supports that are included will remain available beyond that important first year outside of the University.

Software & discounts

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Adobe Creative Cloud

Receive an additional one-year extension to your Adobe Creative Cloud license if you're and eligible graduating student enrolled in the Laptop Program!

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Microsoft Office 365

Students have continued access to Microsoft Office 365 for one year after graduating!

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MOO.com

OCAD U grads are eligible for a 30% discount from MOO on all business cards, postcards, stickers and more.

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Upskilling & workshops

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OCAD U School of Continuing Studies

The School of Continuing Studies at OCAD U offers courses, certificates and micro-credentials designed to meet your professional and lifelong learning goals. OCAD U grads are eligible to receive a 15% discount on courses!

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Virtual workshops, events and industry info sessions

Attend an upcoming event, workshop or industry info session to gain insights and professional skills that contribute to long-term career success.

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Graduate studies in art & design

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Graduate studies at OCAD U

OCAD U's seven master's programs let you immerse yourself in studios, labs and internships to advance your career, deepen your practice and make your impact.

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Art & Design Graduate School Fair

Connect with reps from graduate schools across Canada and the world to learn about master's programs in creative disciplines!

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Entrepreneurship

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FreshBooks Accounting

Graduating OCAD U students get a free one-year subscription to FreshBooks' all-in-one accounting solution for tracking expenses, creating estimates and invoicing.

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Partial

Partial Gallery and OCAD U have partnered to provide an exceptional career opportunity for OCAD U students and recent graduates to establish a successful e-commerce presence for their work. The OCAD University Artist Showcase helps you manage artwork sales and rentals!

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Ownr

Start, manage, incorporate or register your business with Ownr. OCAD U students and grads receive a 20% discount! BONUS: When you use Ownr to register your sole proprietorship and open an RBC business bank account Ownr will provide a $200 refund for business expenses, marketing, etc.!

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Format portfolio builder

Graduating students receive a 20% discount from Format on their Annual Pro Plan subscription! Take advantage of this discount at the end of your free access period.

 

Networking & job opportunities

Student and Alumni Job Board

Talent Network

Find exceptional paid creative work opportunities on OCAD U's student and graduate job board. Employers recruit OCAD U alums for all kinds of cultural and creative paid work opportunities.

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Career Launchers

Apply for a Career Launcher opportunity to kick-start your professional practice! These are unique, high-profile opportunities to help new graduates start creative careers after school.

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Ten Thousand Coffees

Students and alums can use the OCAD U Hub in Ten Thousand Coffees to meet with a range of professionals and OCAD U alums. You can find a mentor and register to attend virtual gatherings with industry guests!

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Career advising & support

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Career transitioning support workshops

Sign up for a one-on-one virtual workshops with student wellness staff to learn about coping strategies, create scalable goals, and tap into your inner boss!

 

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Virtual career advising and mentorship

Weekly opportunities for one-on-one career advising and mentorship for recent alums. Meet with OCAD U career advisors to talk about your needs and goals!

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Work permit support for international students

International students may be eligible to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation! Get advice and guidance on your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) application from our regulated international student immigration advisor.

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Workspace for recent grads

Recent OCAD U grads are invited to work, collaborate and create in RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers at 115 McCaul St., Level 3.

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Benefits for OCAD U alums

OCAD U alums can access lots of benefits and services!

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Embarking on your creative career

Embarking on your Creative Career is an all-in-one online career development resource on Canvas which connects you to the resources needed for every stage of your creative career development.