Train with the next generation of artists and cultural producers. Learn in cutting-edge facilities designed for traditional and digital-studio arts courses. The Visual Arts program offers a perfect balance of studio work and academic study, immersing you in hands-on critical and contemporary art education.
This program is also offered at UBC's Vancouver Campus
Find out moreProgram information
Send details- Campus: Okanagan
- Faculty: Faculty of Creative and Critical Studies
- Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Length 4 yrs
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Co-op
Yes
You can combine your studies with full-time, paid work at top local and international organizations.
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Honours
No
You can study intense specialization in a single field.
Visual Arts offers a critical and contemporary art education. There is an equal emphasis on academic study and studio work. You will acquire the foundational skills, techniques, and theories to work in two and three dimensions in a variety of media such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, computer applications, and video. Art history courses, visiting artists’ presentations, and participation in art exhibitions also form integral parts of the program.
In addition, electives (12 credits in the third and fourth years) establish a strong critical foundation. NOTE: Bachelor of Fine Arts programs at UBC Okanagan require 126 credits, and may therefore take more than four years to complete.
Experiential learning and research
As part of a senior-level practicum, you are able to work and study in certain off-campus, art-related positions to receive credit toward your degree. In fourth year, you have the opportunity to complete advanced studio work, where you will propose and carry out an independent program of studio work in consultation with course directors and faculty advisors. Self-directed readings, writing projects, individual and group critiques, and participation in a final exhibition are required as part of this course. The Faculty of Creative and Critical Studies offers $2,500 undergraduate research awards that provide undergraduate students support to engage in research and creative activities over the summer months.
Campus features
Facilities on UBC’s Okanagan campus include sculpture, photography, and printmaking studios, private studio space for senior-level students, and the Asper Centre for Artists’ Video, which houses state-of-the-art video and digital video editing equipment.
What can you do with this major after graduation?
Send detailsYour future
A UBC education will introduce you to people and ideas from around the world, open doors to new opportunities, and take you places you never imagined. You’ll graduate not only with expertise in your chosen field, but with the skills you need to continue growing, learning, and evolving with your career over time.
Program requirements
English-language requirements
English is the language of instruction at UBC. All prospective students must demonstrate English-language competency prior to admission. There are numerous ways to meet the English Language Admission Standard.
General admission requirements
IB Diploma Programme
- Completed IB Diploma, including at least three Higher Level courses.
IB Certificate Courses
- IB Certificate courses (Standard and Higher Level) may be used in an admissions average if you are graduating from a recognized high school curriculum that can be used as your basis of admission.
- IB Math Applications and Interpretations SL, or IB Math Studies, do not satisfy the math requirement for admission to UBC’s science-based programs, the Faculty of Management, the UBC Sauder School of Business, or the Vancouver School of Economics.
Degree-specific requirements: Visual Arts
- No specific courses required beyond those needed for general admission
- Portfolio submission
- Letter of intent (see UBC Okanagan Calendar)
Related courses
The following subject categories are particularly relevant for this degree. Consider taking courses in these areas in your junior year and senior year.
- Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts