Art Courses in Canada

Introduction to studying an art degree at a Canadian art school

In Canada, studying for an art degree offers a diverse and comprehensive exploration of visual arts, design, and creative practices. The curriculum typically encompasses fine arts, graphic design, illustration, sculpture, and art history. Students delve into traditional and contemporary techniques, fostering creative expression and critical thinking skills.

Pursuing art courses can be a transformative journey for students. It enables them to express their creativity and fosters critical thinking, overall cultural understanding, and a deeper connection to the world around them. Through art, one can explore diverse perspectives, communicate complex ideas, and challenge societal norms, all while developing invaluable skills in visual communication and problem-solving.

Canada’s art schools are renowned for their high-quality education, fostering an environment that encourages experimentation and innovation.

Types of Art Degrees

Bachelor’s in Art

A bachelor’s degree in art and design provides students with an exceptional opportunity to cultivate their creative talents within a structured and supportive academic environment.

The curriculum often begins with core courses introducing students to fundamental concepts and techniques, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history. As the course progresses, they can choose from various specializations, after which they can focus on areas such as fine arts, graphic design, digital media, illustration, photography, or art history. Hands-on studio work is one of the key strengths of the art courses in Canada, as it allows for artistic exploration and skill development. Art schools in Canada often prioritize portfolio development as well.

• Course duration: 4 years
• Course fees: CAD 14,000-85,000
• Entry requirements: Students must have a high school diploma or its equivalent and submit a portfolio of their creative work. International students also need to demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests.

Master’s in Art

Graduate art courses in Canada are a unique combination of inspiration and innovation, where creative minds come to hone their talents and explore the depths of their artistic expression for personal and professional transformation. These programs combine theory and practice to allow students to refine their skills and challenge their creativity levels.

Many master’s courses have a structured approach to imparting quality education that usually combines coursework, studio work, and a thesis or major project. The curriculum can vary depending on the chosen specialization, but students can usually expect to get a balance of core courses, elective courses, and practical training. Some programs also encourage interdisciplinary collaboration among students and faculty members. One of the best features of these courses is that students can exhibit their work in galleries, further developing their artistic portfolios.

• Course duration: 1-2 years
• Course fees: CAD 18,000-58,000
• Entry requirements: Students must have a bachelor’s degree in a related field and a strong portfolio. Some programs may accept students without a prior degree if they have an exceptional portfolio to showcase their artistic excellence. English language proficiency is a must for international students.

PhD in Art

Pursuing a PhD offers candidates the chance to engage in an advanced level of education. They can enhance their artistic practice, conduct in-depth research, and contribute significantly to the field of art. A PhD in art is structured with a rigorous curriculum that includes a combination of advanced coursework, research, and the development of a doctoral dissertation.

• Duration: 3-5 years
• fees: CAD 17,000-70,000
• Entry requirements: Candidates must hold a master’s degree in a related field with a strong academic record and a comprehensive portfolio. English language proficiency is needed for admission by international students.

Scholarships

International students can use funding options and scholarships to offset the cost of education to study at art universities in Canada. These financial aid options can vary depending on the institution, program, and eligibility criteria. However, the following are some general scholarship opportunities that international students may consider:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: These highly competitive scholarships are for doctoral students. They are available to Canadian and international students who generally demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities.
• Government of Canada Scholarships: The Canadian government offers various scholarships to international students through programs such as the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program and the Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program.
• Institution-specific scholarships: Many Canadian universities and colleges offer scholarships specifically for international students pursuing art degrees, and these can vary in terms of eligibility criteria, application processes, and award amounts.
• Provincial Scholarships: Some provinces in Canada, like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, have their scholarship programs for international students. These programs may offer financial assistance to students studying in those provinces.
• Non-Governmental Organizations: Several non-governmental organizations and foundations in Canada offer scholarships to international students pursuing art degrees. Examples include the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) and the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.
• Art-specific scholarships: Some organizations and institutions in Canada offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing educational degrees in the arts. For example, the Canada Council for the Arts provides various grants and scholarships to support artists and arts professionals.
• Private sector scholarships: Certain private companies and foundations in Canada may offer scholarships to international students pursuing art degrees, often in partnership with educational institutions.

Jobs and Careers

Studying art in Canada can lead to many career opportunities, equipping individuals with valuable creativity, critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding skills. The versatility of an art degree allows individuals to apply their skills and knowledge across various industries, making it possible to pursue a fulfilling career that aligns with their interests and expertise. Following are some potential jobs and careers that one can pursue after studying arts in Canada:

• Visual Artist
• Graphic Designer
• Art Teacher
• Curator or Museum Educator
• Art Therapist
• Animator or Multimedia Artist
• Fashion Designer
• Illustrator
• Writer or Copywriter
• Art Critic or Art Historian

Salary

As art-related careers encompass a broad spectrum of roles, salaries vary accordingly. But, on a general level, entry-level positions start from CAD 40,918 per year, and on average, artists in Canada can earn CAD 70,198 annually. With considerable work experience, professional artists can make up to CAD 110,810 annually.

It is also important to note that artistic careers often involve freelancing, self-employment, or a combination of part-time roles. This can lead to fluctuating incomes during phases, which can be less or even more than the average. The income for art graduates in Canada is as diverse as the artistic fields themselves, and success often hinges on a combination of talent, persistence, and entrepreneurship.

Where can I study Art in Canada?

To learn more about the best art schools in Canada, find details on the top ranking Art and Design programs in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 below:

1. Emily Carr University of Art + Design
2. OCAD University
3. Concordia University
4. University of Toronto
5. Toronto Metropolitan University
6. Simon Fraser University
7. University of British Columbia
8. University of Waterloo
9. University of Quebec

Study Art in Canada

Begin your application to study an arts course in Canada by arranging a free consultation with SI-Canada today.

FAQ

What is the duration of the art course in Canada?

The duration of an art course depends on the level of education one is seeking. Students may need to take 4 years to complete an undergraduate course, while a master’s can be completed in 1-2 years. Furthermore, if a student wishes to pursue a PhD, another 3-5 years will be required to complete the degree.

Which university is best for an art course in Canada?

The Emily Carr University of Art + Design is the best university in Canada for pursuing art courses in various fields.

What is the average salary of a fine arts graduate in Canada?

A fine arts graduate’s average salary in Canada is around CAD 70,198 per year.