Our programs
You'll get plenty of one-on-one time with your instructors.
Our purpose-built studios give you the freedom to realize your artistic visions.
Housed in its own building, the Visual Arts department lends itself to creating community.
We encourage our students to explore non-traditional mediums.
Our fully-equipped painting studios free you to simply create.
From in-class critiques to our annual BFA show, we offer plenty of chances to show your work.
Whether you're looking to become a major or a minor, excel as an honours student, continue towards an MFA or combine your creative expressions with the discipline of computer science, studying visual arts will allow you to bring your creative thoughts to life. Join our dynamic and creative community that's already home to a faculty of brilliant practicing artists, 250 undergraduate students, and 11 graduate students.
We offer instruction in the following disciplines:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Sculpture
- Photography
- Extended Media
- Video Art
Major in Visual Arts
Our major program emphasizes contemporary art practices, rather than applied or craft training. We offer intensive studio experience in a critical setting directly related to the pursuit of art in our culture. You'll learn from our acclaimed faculty as well as visiting artists and critics, and graduate students from Canada and abroad.
Honours in Visual Arts
Interested in taking your studies to the next level? Consider earning an Honours, which requires a higher GPA, greater commitment to course work to succeed, and participation in the exciting BFA graduating exhibition. You'll also need permission of the department, as outlined in the link below.
- Honours in Visual Arts
- Example of a successful Team Taught/Honours portfolio submission
- Second example of a successful Team Taught/Honours porrtfolio submission
Combined Major in Visual Art and Computer Science
The beauty of our unique combined visual arts and computer science program means you can graduate with either a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or a Bachelor of Science (BSc)degree. If digital media and computer-based creativity are one of your passions, you may want to consider applying to this in-demand program. Enrolment is limited.
- Combined Major in Visual Art & Computer Science (BFA)
- Combined Major in Visual Art & Computer Science (BSc)
Minor in Visual Arts
If you're studying Art History & Visual Studies, or are a Humanities major, why not consider picking up a Minor in Visual Arts? Our minor program is also great for students who are looking to add a bit of critical and creative thinking to their studies—ideal if you're pursuing business or engineering, or education. No portfolio is required for a Visual Arts Minor. Students request to declare a minor through their faculty advising centre.
Master of Fine Arts
Studying Visual Arts at UVic will allow you to bring your creative thoughts to life. Our graduate program will allow you to expand your studio practice and find your creative edge. We offer a two-year program leading to an MFA degree, with the core of the program emphasizing rigorous and intensive studio work combined with critical discussions in a regular seminar. Candidates may teach an undergraduate course during one semester of their studies.