The Student Affairs Department plays an important role in keeping The Art Institute of Vancouver student body positive, informed and entertained. In addition to working with the Resource Centre to bring in new educational materials and address student concerns, the department acts as a liaison between students, Administration, Technical Services and the Education Department to ensure problems are solved and suggestions heard. They develop services such as intramural or pick-up sports and arranges fun activities such as movie nights, barbecues and holiday festivities.

Department staff research local, provincial, national and international festivals, collect and submit student work for The Art Institute of Vancouver Student Gallery and keep students informed of current deadlines. The department also organizes focus groups to find the most efficient means of addressing student and alumni needs.