Founded in 1995, VanArts offers one-year diploma programs in visual, media and performing arts.

Initially offering programs for Classical Animation, the school expanded to offer programs for Computer Animation in 1998, Game Art Design in 2003, Visual Effects in 2004, then Digital Photography in 2006, the first school to do so in North America.

In 2008, the William Davis Centre for Actors Study joined with VanArts, becoming its acting department.

In 2011, departments were made for Web Development & Interactive Design, Broadcasting, and Online Media.

In 2021, the school moved to its current location, a custom made floor at 333 Terminal Avenue.