Erudera's Complete Guide to Studying Art in Canada
If you decide to study art in Canada, you will earn an internationally valued degree and superb education. Canada has one of the largest economies in the world, an excellent life quality, and has been ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. In addition, Canada offers an affordable but qualitative education, multicultural and diverse environment, and the opportunity to have an adventurous study experience. You will get to travel around the country, explore, see the popular landmarks and natural wonders, and simply get to experience what it’s like to be an art student in a country that inspires.
Here’s everything you need to know about studying art in Canada:
Reasons to Study Art in Canada
Country That Inspires
Canada has modern and multicultural cities—such as Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver—that never fail to impress. They are friendly, welcoming, lively, and full of picturesque scenery. Canada is also packed with fascinating small towns and natural wonders for people who like the calmer and more relaxing landscapes. Its coastline, mountain ranges, lakes, and forests offer you an insight into a world untouched by concrete, where even Earth itself takes a moment to immerse in all its beauty. Both the bustling Canadian cities and the natural world create an ideal source of inspiration for an artist. Whether you are looking for a bit of relaxation, a place to calm your mind, or your own personal muse—you’re likely to find each in Canada.
Top-Notch Art Education
Universities in Canada are world-class and innovative! Through their art degree programs, these universities and art schools provide students with state-of-the-art approaches that reflect the changes in art education in the past years. Just like in any other field of study—even in art—it is always a good idea to keep up with the latest developments. Canadian art schools offer the best of both worlds, traditional and futuristic teaching and learning methodologies. This can benefit students in more than one way by allowing them to get a well-rounded education and still meet the needs of a dynamic world. You will be met with an encouraging academic environment, constantly pushing you to be your unique self.
Multicultural and Diverse Environment
Being in a diverse and multicultural environment has an incredible impact on your personal (and even professional) growth. Not only will you create wonderful friendships with people from all corners of the world, but you will also be encouraged to think outside the box, get out of your comfort zone, push artistic boundaries, and simply create meaningful work. Being around people of different cultures and backgrounds will give you a broader perspective on the world. You will benefit from one another by exchanging ideas, cultural knowledge and exploring various aspects of art. Home to over half a million international students, Canada will offer you just the environment you need to learn and grow during your art education.
Top Universities to Study Art in Canada
Some of the best art schools in Canada are:
- Emily Carr University of Art + Design
- Concordia University
- University of Toronto
- OCAD University
- Ryerson University
- University of British Columbia
Requirements
The requirements you need to meet to enter art school in Canada are:
- High school diploma.
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). For master’s programs.
- Academic transcripts.
- Artistic portfolio*, showing:
- Variety of artwork.
- Observation skills.
- Creative thinking.
- Experimental processes.
- Material techniques.
- Proof of English language proficiency*.
- Letter of intent.
*Specific requirements of the portfolio vary from one art institution to another. Therefore, you must contact the school of your choice to see how you must submit your portfolio.
*If your first language is not English, you must prove your English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or other, as specified by your chosen university.
Application Process
The steps you must follow to apply to art school in Canada include:
- Choose an art school.
- Check the school’s first-year requirements.
- Check the portfolio-specific requirements.
- Apply:
- Submit your documents*.
- Submit your portfolio*.
- Receive acceptance letter.
- Apply for a study permit (international students).
*Universities might ask that you submit your physical documents, such as academic transcripts, by mail, courier, or in-person.
*Usually, universities ask that you submit your artistic portfolio online.
The documents you may need to submit to apply to art school in Canada are:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Three letters of reference.
- Statement of purpose.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Proof of test scores (TOELF, IELTS, other).
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Art in Canada?
A degree in arts takes three to four years of full-time study to complete. If you wish to further your arts education to a master’s degree, you can expect two more years of study. You will benefit from excellent universities, teaching methods, and highly qualified faculty during your art education in Canada. You will be part of a global art community, exchange insights and ideas, and simply complement a world-class education with an outstanding study experience.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Art in Canada?
Tuition fees for an arts education in Canada depend on your nationality (tuition fees are lower for domestic students) and the university. Generally, international students pay higher tuition fees than domestic students in Canada. Yet, tuition fees for art programs in Canada are comparatively lower than in many other popular study destinations.
Here is the average cost of art school in Canada for domestic and international students:
| Student/Study Level | Average Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Domestic Undergraduate Student | CAD 5,926 (~USD 4,670) |
| Domestic Graduate Student | CAD 5,586 (~USD 4,400) |
| International Undergraduate Student | CAD 28,496 (~USD 22,440) |
| International Graduate Student | CAD 16,148 (~USD 12,720) |
Art Career Prospects in Canada
Nowadays, graduates with an art degree can benefit from the advancement of tech companies, especially in Canada. Art graduates provide fresh and diverse perspectives into the workplace, which is beneficial for innovative companies. Although jobs related to art fields can mostly be found in the larger Canadian urban areas, such as Toronto, Vancouver, or Ottawa, you may still find employment in smaller cities and towns.
Depending on your job title and professional experience, art careers can also be lucrative in Canada. For example, a multimedia artist earns an average salary of CAD 51,800 (~USD 40,730) per year; an art director earns around CAD 78,000 (~USD 61,330) annually, a fashion designer makes around CAD 54,800 (~USD 43,090), while a graphic designer earns approximately CAD 60,000 (~USD 47,170) per year in Canada.
