Guru history
A new kind of school
The team at Guru Digital Arts College wanted to create a different kind of school. In 2003, Guru Digital Arts College began a mission to offer digital media education that walked its talk. By integrating a real world approach to learning the business, skills and attitudes of digital media production, we quickly realized it was possible to immerse our learners in a six month experience unlike any other school.Building the foundation
Guru's first home was the basement of the Empire building, located on the corner of 101 street and Jasper avenue. It was an ideal location because of its proximity to public transit and the bustling heart of downtown Edmonton. Plus, the Starbucks located one floor above was a nice bonus.
To properly prepare new students for the digital media industry, Guru assembled a team of talented instructors who pooled their passion for learning and teaching together to achieve Guru's dream. Having instructors that are active in the digital media world has always been a huge asset, and a large contributor to Guru’s success.
From 2003 to 2007, Guru prospered in its humble basement dwelling. It was during this time that, through a series of corporate training partnerships with the University of Alberta and NAIT, Guru’s reputation began to grow.
Moving on up
In 2007, Guru moved from the Empire Building to the 2nd floor of the Swedish Jeweler’s building, just a few blocks from its previous home. This was both a literal and metaphorical upward move for Guru. The new college space featured two classrooms, which enabled Guru to support two simultaneous intakes.
In September 2008, Guru decided to push forward, switching its intake structure from two 6-month intakes a year to four. The increased number of starting dates was intended to reflect Guru’s flexible and progressive attitude by allowing more people to fit Guru into their hectic lives.
During this time, Guru was able to help the Indigenous Media Institute (IMI) bring its first students into the classroom. Guru and the IMI share similar philosophies, so it was only natural that a partnership would form. Guru has supported the IMI as it works to blaze new learning trails for the indigenous communities around Alberta.
Looking ahead
Exciting new opportunities to expand on the original vision of establishing a world-class learning institution loom on the horizon. While the future isn’t yet set, you can be sure that we’ll incorporate the same balance of work, play, reflection and growth that Guru is known for.
Contact us
For further information, or to set up an appointment, contact us.
Phone: 780.429.4878
Toll-Free: 1.877.429.4878
Fax: 780.429.4042
Toll-Free Fax: 1.877.429.4042
E-Mail: info@gurudigitalarts.com
Visit us in person! We’d love to meet you.
200 - 10169 101 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
T5J 0T6
