Ontario College of Art and Design University

Bachelor in Photography

Canada Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

OCAD University in Toronto is Canada’s specialized public university for art, design, and digital media, with a history dating back to 1876 and a student community of roughly 5,000. OCAD U offers a broad portfolio of undergraduate and graduate degrees focused on creative practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research-led innovation. International students are part of a vibrant campus culture that encourages experimentation across visual arts, design, media, and emerging technologies.

The university provides studio-based learning environments, specialized labs, fabrication workshops, and exhibition spaces that enable hands-on development of portfolios and public-facing projects. Cross-disciplinary initiatives and partnerships with cultural institutions, industry, and community organizations in Toronto give students opportunities for internships, collaborative research, and real-world project experience. Faculty are practicing artists and designers who emphasize critical thinking and professional development.

OCAD U supports career readiness through portfolio development, mentorship, and connections to galleries, studios, and creative enterprises. International applicants can access services for admissions advice, visa guidance, and orientation to city life in Toronto. Prospective students should investigate program specifications, studio resources, and opportunities for collaborative projects to ensure alignment with their artistic and professional goals.

About the Program

The Bachelor in Photography program at Ontario College of Art and Design University is a four-year degree that teaches you skills in darkroom and digital photography. The program is more artistic and experimental, emphasizing your artistic vision and encouraging you to explore various issues and styles. You'll have access to top-notch photography facilities and can select electives from other creative areas.

The curriculum covers topics like color photography, history of photography, concept and process, and digital imaging. In the upper years, you can take courses in photography theory and criticism, studio electives, and professional practice. You'll also have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through a placement in the arts community or an exhibition of your photographs.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as photographers, photography editors, art directors, fine art photographers, or photography instructors. They can work in industries like media, advertising, or fine arts, and can be employed by companies, magazines, or galleries.

Tuition in Context

This program's tuition is 10% above the typical bachelor's in Canada.

Median tuition for that cohort is 17,841 USD, across 2,688 programs in our catalog.

Compare Canada bachelor's programs

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
Duolingo
85–95
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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