The Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCAD U) is a renowned institution located in Toronto, Canada, dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation through art, design, and digital media education. As Canada's largest and oldest university specializing in art and design, OCAD U offers a diverse range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as continuing studies and research opportunities. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD U provides a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where students can explore their artistic passions, engage in critical discourse, and develop the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the creative industries.

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In the Photography program, you will learn skills from darkroom to digital photography. OCAD University has some of the best photography facilities in Canada and one of few schools with both a colour and black and white darkroom. You will benefit from studying photography at Canada’s largest art, design and media university, where you will select electives from a wide range of creative areas. These include electives in Sculpture/Installation, Printmaking and Drawing & Painting, among many others. Unlike some other photography programs, which focus on commercial photography, OCAD U’s Photography program is more artistic and experimental. The program emphasizes your artistic vision, while encouraging you to explore a broad range of issues and styles. In the upper-year levels, you’ll gain real world experience through a placement in the arts community or through an exhibition of your photographs. Show less

First Year
Before you focus on Photography, your first year at OCAD University will be in our first year art program. You will have a ton of choice in taking different kind of classes to get a good base for future years. A few are mandatory, such as art history, colour and drawing, but the rest of your classes could include:

Sculpture concepts
Wearable art
Photography
Painting
Animation
Body and technology
Printmaking
Art and code

Second Year
In second year, you will study topics such as:

Colour photography
History of photography
Concept and process
Digital imaging

Third Year
Third year courses may include topics such as:

Photography – theory and criticism
Studio electives
Professional practice
Creativity on demand

Fourth Year
In your fourth year, you can choose between the Thesis and the Directed Studio options. In the Thesis option, you will work with a thesis panel to research, produce and present a body of work that is of professional exhibition quality. In the Directed Studio option, you will work on several projects and refine your technical skills and conceptual understanding.

You’ll showcase your work at OCAD U’s GradEx, the biggest free art and design exhibition in Toronto with more than 40,000 visitors.

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OCAD University, formerly known as the Ontario College of Art and Design University, is a leading institution dedicated to fostering innovation, creativity, and critical thinking in the fields of art, design, and digital media. Located in Toronto, Canada, OCAD U has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1876. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as continuing studies, research opportunities, and professional development courses. As Canada's largest and oldest university specialized in art and design, OCAD U is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to education and its commitment to preparing students for the rapidly evolving creative industries. The university embraces an interdisciplinary approach that encourages collaboration and exploration across disciplines, enabling students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the creative process. OCAD U boasts a vibrant and diverse community of students, faculty, and staff, who contribute to the rich tapestry of artistic expression and innovation on campus. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized studios, labs, and exhibition spaces, where students can experiment, create, and showcase their work. At OCAD U, students have the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty members who are accomplished artists, designers, and scholars in their respective fields. Through a combination of rigorous academic instruction, hands-on studio work, and critical discourse, students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become leaders and change-makers in their chosen creative fields. Beyond the classroom, OCAD U actively promotes community engagement and collaboration. The university encourages students to connect with the vibrant arts and design scene in Toronto, forging meaningful partnerships with industry professionals and cultural organizations. This emphasis on real-world experience prepares students for successful careers and entrepreneurial endeavors in the global creative economy. With its rich heritage, commitment to innovation, and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD University continues to be at the forefront of art, design, and digital media education. It nurtures and empowers the next generation of creative thinkers, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and making a significant impact in the cultural landscape of Canada and beyond.

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You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

How to book:

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it

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