Course at a Glance
- MasterDegree level
- 5 termsDuration
- Ottawa (Main Campus), CanadaLocation
- Fine Arts; Visual ArtsField of study
- bilingualLanguage of instruction
- Ottawa (Main Campus)Campus
- $29,446Fees
- AvailableScholarship
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.
Read more
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 two years in length and is offered on a full-time basis only. The program is governed by the general regulations in effect for graduate studies.
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
Canada- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modeFull-time
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
Minimum requirements: B average (in the last two years of full-time studies) in a B.F.A. or B.A. with major or specialization in Visual Arts or equivalent Application Fee: CA$125.00 (non-refundable) Recommendation letter(s): 2 Transcript(s): 1 Required document(s): 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. To be eligible, the candidate should have: A portfolio that demonstrates significant artistic accomplishment and potential; A solid background in the history and theory of art, with a particular emphasis on contemporary art and art discourse, as demonstrated by the student having completed at least 12 units of art history and theory courses at the undergraduate level, with at least nine of those units in contemporary art. Note: The Admissions Committee may, when recommending admission, add up to two undergradu Published language requirement: English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 84 · English test waiver: French Program: DALF C1, C2/ TCF B2 (note globale)/TEF B2 (Note globale) (Internet-based) English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · Application fee: CAD 125.00
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition$29,446 CAD / year≈ $21,651 / year
- Application feeNo application fee for this programme
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsInternational students enrolled in a French-language master’s program may be eligible for the Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship. Graduate awards and financial support are listed under uOttawa Awards and financial support. Source: uOttawa Tuition fees - International students page.
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Application deadline: Fall: December 1 (international applicants).
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does Master of Fine Arts Visual Arts cost?
CAD 29,446 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
5 terms, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
Minimum requirements: B average (in the last two years of full-time studies) in a B.F.A. or B.A. with major or specialization in Visual Arts or equivalent Application Fee: CA$125.00 (non-refundable) Recommendation letter(s): 2 Transcript(s): 1 Required document(s): 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. To be eligible, the candidate should have: A portfolio that demonstrates significant artistic accomplishment and potential; A solid background in the history and theory of art, with a particular emphasis on contemporary art and art discourse, as demonstrated by the student having completed at least 12 units of art history and theory courses at the undergraduate level, with at least nine of those units in contemporary art. Note: The Admissions Committee may, when recommending admission, add up to two undergradu Published language requirement: English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 84 · English test waiver: French Program: DALF C1, C2/ TCF B2 (note globale)/TEF B2 (Note globale) (Internet-based) English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · Application fee: CAD 125.00
Is there a scholarship?
International students enrolled in a French-language master’s program may be eligible for the Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship. Graduate awards and financial support are listed under uOttawa Awards and financial support. Source: uOttawa Tuition fees - International students page.
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