Study at the School of Art
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1913
Year the School of Art was established
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70,000
Size of the ARTlab building, in square feet
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9
Medium options you can focus on, including ceramics, graphic design and video
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24/7
Hours many studios are open for student use
Program details
The School of Art offers three and four year Bachelor of Fine Art studio options, as well as a four year diploma in Fine Art.
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Expected duration: 3 years
The Bachelor of Fine Arts General is designed to provide a balanced learning of theory and practice. Studio courses focus on the production of art and design, though studio practice, related theory, and the technical education necessary to become an educator, or a professional creative artist in fine art or applied fields.
All undergraduate students take first and second-year studios in experimental and foundation studies, followed by more intensive study in specific fine art and design disciplines beginning third year. Students graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and deep disciplinary knowledge along with strong critical thinking skills and the agility to problem solve and connect the dots across a wide range of fields.
Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours
Expected duration: 4 years
The BFA Honours degree allows you to complete an additional year of study including electives, as well as self-directed studio work and research.
Diploma in Art
Expected duration: 2 years
The Diploma in Art is essentially technical in nature. The interdisciplinary studio-based learning experience gives students a hands-on training in an art studio setting and introduces them to possible careers and education pathways in the arts and culture sector. Building a diverse set of technical skills while gaining practical experience.
First year field trip
This required course for all School of Art students takes place each October, supervised by faculty members and the advising office. Students travel to Regina and Saskatoon, visiting several art galleries and other points of interest. Previous tours have included the Mackenzie Art Gallery, Remai Modern, Dunlop Art Gallery, PAVED Arts, and Wanuskewin Heritage Park. During the field trip, students complete a short drawing/writing-based assignment reflecting their studied artworks.
Media concentrations
Admission requirements
The following are minimum requirements for entry into the BFA and Art Diploma programs. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the programs.
Degree program admission requirements
If you do not meet the requirements for direct or advanced entry into the Bachelor of Fine Arts program, you can apply for admission to University 1, the Faculty of Arts, or another program.
Direct Entry applicants are those who have not attended a post-secondary institution or have completed fewer than 24 credit hours at a recognized university or college. Direct entry applicants require the following:
- Manitoba high school graduation including 5 full credits at the Grade 12 level in courses designated S,G, U, or C
- A minimum average of 70% over three Grade 12 40S credits
- One credit of Grade 12 40S English with a minimum grade of 60%
- A digital portfolio with a supporting written statement
Advanced entry is for applicants who have completed one year (24 credit hours) or more of studies in another faculty at the University of Manitoba or another recognized post-secondary institution. A digital portfolio with a supporting written statement is required.
Diploma program admission requirements
The Fine Arts diploma program does not have a prior education requirement. High school graduation, including completion of Grade 12 Art, is recommended. A digital portfolio with a supporting written statement is required.
How to apply
Domestic student application fee: $100
International student application fee: $130
Applications to the University of Manitoba are completed online. To begin your application, select the Start or continue your application button. The online application includes several parts, and you may be required to submit transcripts, proof of English Language proficiency, and other documents.
All applicants must upload a portfolio of work as part of the online application.
Portfolio requirements
Written statement
Please limit your answers to 50 words for each question.
- Why do you want to study at the School of Art?
- Tell us about an experience that inspired you to pursue studies in art.
- What will you be able to contribute to the School of Art?
- What will you gain through studying at the School of Art?
- Which piece in your portfolio is your favourite? Why so?
- List your education, volunteer service, and work experiences.
Digital portfolio
A portfolio typically includes a selection of work completed within the past two years (10-15 artworks, maximum 15) that has examples selected from the following:
- journals, sketchbooks or notebooks
- drawing, painting, printmaking (2D)
- collage or mixed media (2D or 3D)
- sculpture, installation or assemblage (3D)
- photographic work
- ceramics, glass, metal work, textiles
- time-based work: animation, video, audio art, web sites, performance art
Bachelor of Fine Arts Graduating Exhibition Catalogue
Each year students who have successfully completed the requirements for receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours degree from the University of Manitoba are featured in the year end graduating catalogue. This publication is a celebration of the rite of passage that is the transition from undergraduate student to university graduate, and perhaps an additional transition to a career or further studies within the visual arts.
Learn more
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Contact us
Admission and application inquiries
Mailing address
Undergraduate Admissions
424 UMSU University Centre
University of Manitoba
65 Chancellors Circle
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
Office location
Room 424 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellors Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Submit a question
Phone: 204-474-8808
Toll-free: 1-800-224-7713 ext 8808
Program inquiries
School of Art
Room 313 ARTlab Building
180 Dafoe Road
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
Undergraduate programs: soadvise@umanitoba.ca
Graduate program: mfainfo@umanitoba.ca