Master of Fine Arts Visual Arts

About this programme

The University of Ottawa’s Department of Visual Arts offers a graduate program leading to the degree of Master of Fine Arts (MFA). The program is bilingual and covers a variety of artistic practices, from photography and media arts to sculpture, painting and drawing, video and installation art. Students take an in-depth look at theories informing contemporary art and image culture, and can choose to pursue either an interdisciplinary studio approach or to specialize in a single medium. In accordance with University of Ottawa policy, students may choose to complete written assignments, examinations, and studio critiques in either English or French. The program is governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies. For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage. Applicants to the program are required to have a bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts (either a BFA, or a BA with major or specialization in Visual Arts), with a minimum B+ (75%) average in the last two years of study and an overall B (70%) average. Candidates with an honours bachelor’s degree in another discipline may be accepted if they submit a portfolio of exceptional quality. In accordance with the University of Ottawa regulation, assignments, examinations, research papers and theses can be produced in either English or French. A detailed description of the program, and of the guidelines for studio courses and the thesis preparation, can be found on the website of the Depar