Art is a medium of expression used by human civilisation since its inception. Starting from cave paintings to the current cutting-edge technologies where all you need is a device and an imagination. Technology has evolved to a stage where getting a formal education becomes a necessity to help you create 3D sculpting, visual arts, fine arts, and performing arts, among others and secure a good-paying job as an artist. A bachelor's in art or a master's degree is one of the most rewarding degrees in today’s time. And, when talking about the best colleges to study art, Canada is on top of every art enthusiast’s mind. Art colleges in Canada are among the top in the world.
Each year, the Ontario College of Art & Design hosts more than 5,000 students, making it one of the best art schools in Canada. Going forward, we will learn about the other best art colleges in Canada, including their rankings, fees, courses and more. Are you ready to choose your alma mater from the list of best art universities in Canada?
Best Art Colleges in Canada
Studying art starts with choosing good art schools in Canada. In order to find the best suitable institutes, you need to look at several factors, including their location, ranking, and courses the art colleges in Canada offer, among others. Below is a list of 10 art colleges in Canada that are renowned for their academic excellence and great faculty:
1. OCAD University
Location: 100 McCaul St, Toronto, ON M5T 1W1, Canada
Fees: CA$7,500 - CA$15,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #9
Suggested Courses: Painting, Photography, Animation, Sculpting Concepts & Printmaking
The Ontario College of Art & Design was among the first art colleges in Canada dedicated to the study of traditional and contemporary arts. Established in 1876 in Ontario by the Ontario Society of Arts, the college is a pioneer among the best art universities in Canada. The training experience received in one of the best art schools in Canada is unparalleled. Starting with a four-year bachelor’s degree in Art to exhilarating choices from the Faculty of Design and Faculty of Arts and Science, the institute has a range of choices. Some of the notable alumni include Barbara Astman, Debbie Adams, and Marcos Chin.
2. Emily Carr University of Art + Design
Location: 520 E 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 0H2, Canada
Fees: CA$6,000 - CA$10,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #29
Suggested Courses: 3D Computer Animation (3DAN), Animation (ANIM), Ceramics (CRAM) & New Media + Sound Art (NMSA)
The university is one of the best art colleges in Vancouver and has a history of 99 years. A pioneer in art, design, and media, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, or ECU, is ranked #24 among the top art universities worldwide. As one of the top art colleges in Canada, ECU is home to more than 7,600 students in various disciplines with thousands of students across the world enrolled in its workshops and certificate programs. Among the trailblazers, Douglas Coupland, Molly Lamb Bobak, and Arnold Belkin are some of the many world-renowned names.
3. Concordia University
Location: 1455 Blvd. De Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada
Fees: CA$6,000 - CA$11,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #387
Suggested Courses: Visual Communication in Context, Exploring Design Studies & Investigations in Typographic Design
Concordia University, established in 1974, boasts a rich history of nearly 50 years. Renowned for its innovative programs in arts, Concordia ranks among the best art schools in Canada. With over 48,000 students, Concordia fosters a diverse and vibrant academic environment. The Concordia University Irvine Art Department offers some of the best courses offered across the art colleges in Canada. Some of the art visionaries who received their degrees from the prestigious art school are William Vazan, Diana Nemirof, and Jana Sterbak.
However, many programs also have specific subject prerequisites. International students need to meet additional requirements, including IELTS or TOEFL test scores.
4. NSCAD University
Location: 5163 Duke St, Halifax, NS B3J 3J6, Canada
Fees: CA$12,000 - CA$15,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #83
Suggested Courses: Design, Fine Arts & Art Education
As one of the most sought-after art colleges in Canada, Nova Scotia College of Art & Design (NSCAD) takes a holistic approach to studying art. The university integrates arts, culture, and opportunities for community engagement into its curriculum. Many appreciate the university's strong emphasis on creativity and freedom of expression, citing the unique and supportive environment that encourages artistic exploration. The Port Campus is frequently mentioned as an architectural gem that inspires students with its innovative design and state-of-the-art facilities. The most notable alumni from the institution are William D. MacGillivray, Ryan MacGrath, and Landon Mackenzie.
5. Yukon School of Visual Arts
Location: 982 Third Ave, Dawson City, YT Y0B 1G0, Canada
Fees: CA$8,000 - 12,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #20
Courses Included: First Nations Core Competency, Reading, Writing, Creating, Visual Studies & 4D Studio, among others
Yukon School of Visual Arts (YSOVA) offers an intensive 8-month Foundation Year Program in Dawson City, Canada. As one of the best art colleges in Canada, it equips aspiring artists with a strong foundation in various disciplines (painting, drawing, printmaking, etc.) Teaching by renowned faculty in small classes and custom studios, YSOVA inculcates a unique artistic experience.
Founded in 1988, the university has transformed into a pioneer institution of art with its unique studio-based learning environment. The alumni list features world-renowned actor and writer Richards France (Dawn of the Dead).
6. Alberta University of the Arts
Location: 1407 14 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4R3, Canada
Fees: CA$13,000 - CA$15,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #4
Suggested Courses: Design, Painting, Drawing & Jewellery
Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) offers a dynamic range of programs designed to foster creativity and practical skills. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in disciplines such as Painting, where they explore both traditional and contemporary techniques, or Photography, which encompasses both digital and analogue methods.
Another popular choice is the Bachelor of Design (BDes) in Graphic Design, focusing on design principles, typography, and digital media. These programs benefit from small class sizes and well-equipped studios with an average class size of 16, allowing for personalised attention from a faculty of accomplished artists and designers.
AUArts fosters a diverse and vibrant student body, attracting students from over 30 countries. Notable alumni include prominent Canadian artists like Chris Cran (known for his large-scale, photorealistic paintings) and internationally recognised jeweller and metalsmith Robert Buchanan.
7. University of Toronto
Location: 27 King's College Cir, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
Fees: CA$10,000 - CA$15,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #21
Suggested Courses: Bachelor of Arts in Visual Studies (BAVS) & Studio Art Minor
Although the University of Toronto doesn't have a dedicated art school, it offers a strong art program through the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. The Daniels Faculty's Professional Experience Program (PEP) allows students to gain hands-on experience by working with leading firms and practitioners in architecture and design.
Additionally, the university hosts career fairs and industry panels, providing students with direct access to potential employers and industry leaders. Alumni networks and mentorship programs further enhance career prospects by connecting students with successful graduates who offer guidance and support.
These resources collectively ensure that University of Toronto art students are well-prepared for successful careers in their chosen fields.
The faculty boasts award-winning, practising artists who mentor and guide students. Students have access to state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and facilities, including the Dunlop Art Gallery, which offers unique exhibition opportunities. Sarah Adams, Tom Alvarez, Kyoko Ariyoshi, and Natasha Alphonse are some of the many famous alumni from one of the best art colleges in Canada.
8. University of Guelph
Location: 50 Stone Rd E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
Fees: CA$35,000 - CA$50,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #8
Suggested Courses: Studio Art, Art History & MA in Fine Arts
The University of Guelph's School Of Fine Art and Music takes a unique approach, focusing on balance. SOFAM offers a variety of courses, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Studio Art, where students delve into painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital media. The school also offers a BA in Art History, providing a thorough understanding of art movements, critical theory, and cultural contexts.
The program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the art world. Hiba Abdallah, Amanda Boulos, and Peter Denton are among the top names in the field from one of the best art colleges in Ontario.
9. Bishop’s University
Location: 2600 Rue College, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 1Z7, Canada
Fees: CA$ 10,000 - CA$15,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #45
Suggested Courses: Fine Arts with a Studio Concentration, Music, Drama, Film Studies & Heritage
Bishop's offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Fine Arts with concentrations in Studio Art, Art History, and Interdisciplinary Arts. The university boasts a dedicated faculty of practising artists and art historians, including award-winning members such as Professor Nikolas Ruedi, known for his innovative work in digital media, and Professor Leslie Kelly, a recipient of the Governor General's Award for Visual and Media Arts.
Small class sizes ensure personalised attention and a supportive learning environment. Courses such as Painting, Sculpture, Contemporary Art Theory, and Canadian Art History allow students to gain both practical and theoretical knowledge. The well-rounded approach not only hones their artistic skills but also prepares you for various career paths in the arts.
The world-famous painter Robert Broughton and Susan Macdonald, an acclaimed sculptor and installation artist, are also among the notable alumni of one of the pioneer art colleges in Canada, established in 1843. It is one of the most sought-after art schools, with 3,000+ students from more than 50 countries studying here each year.
10. Sault College
Location: 443 Northern Ave E, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6B 4J3, Canada
Fees: CA$5,000 - CA$10,000
QS Ranking (Canada): #186
Suggested Courses: Drawing & Illustrations, Arts Fundamentals, Digital Film Production & Graphic Design
Located in the scenic Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Sault College’s Continuing Education Studies fosters artistic exploration. The Creative Arts program provides a variety of non-credited courses and certificates catering to a range of interests and skill levels. It is ideal for those seeking a creative outlet alongside work or other commitments at the best art colleges in Ontario.
The college was founded in the year 1965 and hosts more than 4,500 students and a 35,000 strong community from across the globe each year. If you want to study art in Canada in a holistic environment, Sault is your choice. Kevin, analumnus of our School of Natural Environment, is a bestselling author of The Happy Camper and an acclaimed series of paddling guides. He is also recognised as one of the Canadian Geographical Society’s top 100 modern-day explorers.
Scholarships to Study Art In Canada’s Top Colleges
If you are an art enthusiast and want to study art in Canada, scholarships might help. Explore scholarship opportunities to fuel your artistic journey at top art colleges in Canada. Below is the list of scholarships you can go for: