Master of Fine Arts (Studio)

The Master of Fine Arts degree is internationally recognized as a standard qualification required to teach visual arts and craft at postsecondary educational institutions such as colleges and universities. The NSCAD MFA Program provides students with the opportunity to develop their work in a context of intense critical discussion. Pedagogy, Research/Creation and other integral academic courses enhance the studio focus. Students are selected for their capability as artists and craftspersons, their critical abilities, and the personal qualities and interests that might contribute to their success as teachers and scholars.

Applicants normally have in-depth training and experience in ceramics, digital media, drawing, film, installation, jewellery/metalsmithing, painting, performance, photography, printmaking, sculpture, sound, textiles/fashion, or video.

All degree students at NSCAD University must demonstrate the ability to write competently in English. Students meet this requirement by successfully completing FNDN 1800 Writing for the Arts, in the Foundation year. Students who attended another post-secondary institution before entering NSCAD may meet the writing requirement through transfer by demonstrating that they have previously completed studies in an English-speaking university program. Students must have studied at an English-speaking university and must have completed at least six credits of English courses or nine credits of liberal arts courses at a B- level or better to fulfill the requirement.

Students transferring from community colleges cannot meet the writing requirement through transfer except in circumstances where NSCAD University has a formal articulation or transfer agreements with a specific college in which meeting the writing requirement through transfer is provided for in the agreement. Students from other community colleges for which transfer is not possible, may register for a 2000-level liberal arts/art history course concurrently with FNDN 1800, but must successfully complete FNDN 1800 before taking other LAS/AHIS courses at NSCAD University or under NSCAD University auspices.