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Visual Arts Program - Program Information

The Visual Arts Program offers a broadly-based approach to art-making. Faculty members are practicing artists who are committed to teaching. While providing a sound foundation in visual art practice, we encourage experimentation and positive risk-taking in the expansion of individual expression. In addition to providing an exciting creative environment, we are also dedicated to providing students with the expertise required for careers in Visual Art.

Drawing students

Bachelor of Arts, Minor in Visual Arts: 4 years

This degree is intended for students who wish to pursue studies in Visual Art with an integrated, mixed media approach. The program may be combined with another area of study. Our BFA Studio Programs emphasize exploration of technical and critical thinking skills and their relationship to contemporary cultural studies. The Visual Art Minor is appropriate for students contemplating a number of professional choices and is relevant to Bachelor of Fine Arts disciplines and those pursuing Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees.

Bachelor of Fine Arts, University Transfer: 1-2 years

Students may also choose to pursue a program of study leading to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree by enrolling in Visual Arts courses for one or more years at VIU and then transferring to another institution. The BFA Transfer program offers a diversity of studio and art history courses that include the acquisition of technical skills as well as stimulating classroom discussions and critiques in first year, with further expansion of those skills combined with exploration of idea development and conceptual skills in second year.

Visual Arts Diploma: 2 years

The Visual Arts Department at VIU also offers a two-year diploma in which students learn a number of technical skills and the visual literacy essential for Visual Art practice. The Visual Arts Diploma comprises two years of fine arts programming totalling sixty credits. Upon completion, interested students may elect to pursue further studies and obtain a degree in Visual Art.