Bachelor in Indigenous Visual Culture

Applications for the Sep 2027 intake are due by Feb 1, 2027. Tuition fees are 31,336 CAD per year.

The Bachelor in Indigenous Visual Culture at OCAD University is a degree program that combines art practice with the study of Indigenous history and culture. This program is for students who want to engage with complex global discourses in Indigenous art and history. It leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and helps students develop their skills in a supportive community.

The curriculum includes studio-based learning and courses on the visual, cultural, social, and political history of Indigenous peoples. Students learn about different art forms and media, and they get to try out their own creative projects. The program also covers the history of Indigenous art and contemporary art practice, helping students think critically about the issues that matter to them.

Graduates of this program can become artists, art historians, or curators, working in museums, galleries, or community organizations. They can also work as art educators, teaching others about Indigenous art and culture. With a strong understanding of Indigenous history and culture, they can succeed in the art world and make a positive impact on their communities as cultural managers, art critics, or community arts coordinators.

OCAD University in Toronto is a leading centre for art and design education with a long history of nurturing creative talent. Serving roughly 4,500 students, including a substantial international cohort, OCAD U emphasizes interdisciplinary practice and experimentation across studio art, design, digital media and emerging technologies. The university’s urban setting in Toronto offers rich cultural resources and industry connections that enhance learning and professional development.

The curriculum at OCAD University blends foundational skills with cross-disciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to explore new materials, technologies and design methods. State-of-the-art studios, workshops and research labs support work in visual arts, industrial design, animation and interaction design. Students benefit from faculty mentorship, exhibitions, industry partnerships and career services that prepare graduates for creative careers and entrepreneurial ventures.

Campus life is vibrant, with galleries, events and collaborative projects linking students to Toronto’s creative industries and cultural institutions. International students receive targeted support for admissions, portfolios, visa guidance and orientation. Prospective applicants should review program-specific entry requirements and deadlines, prepare strong creative portfolios where required, and engage with OCAD U’s advising resources to plan studio practice, internships and post-graduation career steps.