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Best art schools in Canada are recognized worldwide for their exceptional quality of education and talented quality. As a hub for creativity and innovation, Canada has produced some of the most renowned artists, designers, and creators.
Whether you’re interested in painting, sculpture, digital art, or graphic design, the best art schools in Canada offer a diverse range of programs to suit your interests and career aspirations. In this article, we will take a closer look at 11 of the top art schools in Canada and what makes them stand out from the rest.
1. Alberta University of the Arts
The Alberta University of the Arts, formerly known as the Alberta College of Art and Design, is a renowned art school that has maintained its reputation for providing exceptional facilities and attracting talented students from all over the world.
The university boasts a team of accomplished art professors who are dedicated to helping students in various fields of study, and one of the best things about this institution is its relatively low tuition fees compared to other art and design schools.
Additionally, it offers a wide range of options for graduate and undergraduate programs, including sculpture, media arts, drawing, painting, and more. Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree or a Bachelor of Design Degree, with both programs being well-structured and comprehensive.
2. Concordia University
Concordia University provides a promising opportunity for students to pursue their passion in the fine arts. One of the best fine art schools in Canada, this university offers a wide range of departments for students to choose from, including performing arts, cinematic arts, digital arts, artistic studios, and historical arts.
Concordia University also takes a modern and innovative approach to contemporary art, reflected in the Department of Studio Arts. With a commitment to academic excellence, students can continue their education and pursue their master’s degree at the university.
3. Emily Carr University of Art + Design
Emily Carr University of Art + Design is among Canada’s top-rated art schools, featuring various distinguished programs in fine arts and design. The university provides a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, from Bachelor’s to Master’s Degrees in Art Education, Visual Arts, and other disciplines.
The university’s state-of-the-art facilities offer a conducive environment for students to refine their creativity and develop their artistic vision. Emily Carr also maintains robust connections with industry partners, providing students with opportunities to gain practical experience beyond the classroom.
4. Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD)
Established in 1887 as the Victoria School of Art and Design, the Nova Scotia College of Art & Design (NSCAD) is renowned for being Canada’s first degree-granting art school. Located in Halifax, NSCAD has a rich history and has achieved numerous artistic accomplishments and academic excellence over time.
NSCAD boasts of being one of the few free schools worldwide that run a university press, which has published many monographs about artists and collections of works by contemporary artists. The university’s library is fully equipped with over 50,000 books and 140,000 visual works, making it a significant draw for students.
The school also has several museums and gallery spaces, including the Anna Leonowens Gallery, which showcases works from students, faculty members, and visiting artists.
5. Ontario College of Arts and Design University (OCAD U)
One of the best art schools in Canada, OCAD University is also a globally recognized institution for art and design education, offering diverse programs that nurture students’ creativity and help them achieve their full potential.
Located in the heart of Toronto, the university has a rich history of producing outstanding artists and designers across various fields.
The university offers several programs in visual art and design, each tailored to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields.
6. Sheridan College
Located in Oakville, Ontario, the Sheridan College is a prominent institution that is among the largest schools in Canada.
One of the best digital art schools in Canada, this school boasts an exceptional animation program that is highly selective due to its distinguished reputation. Sheridan has played a crucial role in developing the Canadian animation scene, having offered classical animation courses since 1968.
Its graduates have achieved remarkable accomplishments in the art and animation industry, including the production of Academy Award-winning works.
7. University of British Columbia
The Department of Art History, Visual Art and Theory at the University of British Columbia is considered one of the best art schools in Canada. It boasts an extensive range of courses that cover various areas related to the practice, theory, and history of visual arts.
These courses include photography, fine art, design, printmaking, and film production. Moreover, students have access to cutting-edge facilities, such as a digital media lab, 3D printing laboratory, and video editing suite.
The faculty members at the University of British Columbia are highly qualified and experienced, with many of them earning international recognition for their research and artistic accomplishments. This is great news for students, as they get to learn from some of the most distinguished professionals in the field.
8. University of Toronto
The Department of Visual Studies at the University of Toronto is a highly regarded institution that offers contemporary art courses. One of the best art universities in Canada, the school offers interdisciplinary studies in history and theory, which are essential in studying visual arts.
Moreover, the school focuses on the development of images and visualizations as one of its key objectives. As a student, you will have access to courses in art, architecture, animation, film, television, multimedia, and more.
Additionally, students can choose to specialize in majors and minors in this university. The school’s program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in visual arts and prepare them for a career in the arts.
9. Vancouver Film School
Vancouver Film School is one of the best art schools in Canada, providing specialized courses that aim to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the creative industries.
The school offers a broad range of courses from film, television, and animation to video game design, visual effects, and virtual reality. Vancouver Film School has world-renowned faculty members and industry professionals who impart their expertise to the students.
The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities where students can gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. In addition, students also receive strong foundational knowledge through theory classes.
10. Yukon School of Visual Arts (YSOVA)
After its transformation from a community college to a public university, Yukon School of Visual Arts (YSOVA) has become an outstanding institution renowned for its exceptional fine arts studies.
Students who have completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree can also transfer their studies to any of the university’s partner institutions.
YSOVA’s provision of six studio study courses and four liberal study courses has made it a go-to institution for aspiring artists. The university also offers training programs, workshops, and webinars that enhance students’ art skills further.
One of the best visual art schools in Canada, YSOVA is the ideal destination for students seeking to receive a high-quality education in fine arts.
In conclusion, Canada is home to some of the finest art schools in the world, each with its unique strengths and offerings.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the arts, consider applying to one of these best art schools in Canada. And don’t forget to explore the many fully-funded scholarships for international students available to help fund your education and launch your artistic journey.
