Program Overview
The Visual Arts diploma program at the University of the Fraser Valley provides students with a solid foundation in artistic skills, art history, and critical theory. Students can specialize in one of six disciplines: introductory studio, new media, painting and drawing, photography, print media, or sculpture and extended media. The program prepares students for careers in the arts and related fields, and it also provides opportunities for further education and professional development.
Program Outline
The program focuses on providing students with a strong foundation in the core artistic skills, while also integrating art history and critical theory to help them understand the context of their work within contemporary culture.
Objectives:
The program aims to:
- Help students develop their artistic skills and knowledge in a specific discipline.
- Provide students with a strong foundation in art history and critical theory.
- Prepare students for careers in the arts and related fields.
- Encourage students to pursue further education in the arts.
Description:
The program offers studio courses in six disciplines: introductory studio, new media, painting and drawing, photography, print media, and sculpture and extended media. Students can personalize their studies by choosing courses from the disciplines that interest them the most. The program also includes courses in art history and critical theory, which help students to understand the context of their work within contemporary culture.
Outline:
Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Drawing and painting
- Sculpture
- Printmaking
- Photography
- New media
- Art history
- Critical theory
Structure:
The program is typically completed over two years. In the first year, students take introductory courses in all six disciplines. In the second year, students take more advanced courses in their chosen discipline(s).
Modules:
The program is divided into the following modules:
- Introductory Studio
- New Media
- Painting and Drawing
- Photography
- Print Media
- Sculpture and Extended Media
- Art History
- Critical Theory
Module Descriptions:
- Introductory Studio: This module introduces students to the basic principles of art and design. Students will learn about different art materials and techniques, and they will begin to develop their own artistic style.
- New Media: This module explores the use of new media technologies in art. Students will learn how to create digital art, video art, and interactive art.
- Painting and Drawing: This module focuses on the development of drawing and painting skills. Students will learn about different drawing and painting techniques, and they will create their own artwork in a variety of media.
- Photography: This module introduces students to the basics of photography. Students will learn about camera operation, composition, and lighting. They will also learn how to develop and print their own photographs.
- Print Media: This module explores the use of printmaking techniques in art. Students will learn how to create prints using a variety of methods, such as etching, screen printing, and lithography.
- Sculpture and Extended Media: This module focuses on the creation of three-dimensional art. Students will learn about different sculpting techniques, and they will create their own sculptures using a variety of materials.
- Art History: This module provides students with a comprehensive overview of the history of art. Students will learn about different art movements, artists, and artworks.
- Critical Theory: This module introduces students to critical theory, which is a way of thinking about art and culture. Students will learn how to analyze and interpret artworks, and they will develop their own critical thinking skills.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods, including:
- Assignments
- Exams
- Presentations
- Critiques
- Portfolios
- Creativity
- Technical skill
- Conceptual understanding
- Critical thinking
- Presentation
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Workshops
- Studio instruction
- Independent study
Faculty:
The program has a team of experienced and qualified faculty members who are passionate about teaching art. The faculty members have a variety of backgrounds and expertise, and they are committed to helping students succeed in their studies.
- Small class sizes
- Well-designed studios
- Regular engagement with faculty and fellow students
- Gallery and studio tours
- Exhibition and performance opportunities
- Lectures from visiting artists
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The program prepares students for a variety of careers in the arts and related fields, including:
- Artist
- Art teacher
- Art therapist
- Art critic
- Curator
- Gallerist
- Graphic designer
- Web designer
- Photographer
- Videographer
- Animator
- Special effects artist
- Art historian
- Museum educator
Opportunities:
The program provides students with the opportunity to:
- Develop their artistic skills and knowledge
- Network with professionals in the arts
- Gain experience through internships and other opportunities
- Showcase their work in exhibitions and performances
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in the arts and related fields. They have also pursued further education in the arts, and they have made significant contributions to the community.
Other:
Global Spending on Entertainment and Media:
Global spending on entertainment and media is expected to rise to $2.1 trillion by 2020. This suggests that there is a growing demand for creative professionals.
Creative Economy:
The United Nations reports that the creative economy is one of the world's fastest-growing sectors for income generation, job creation, and export earnings. This suggests that there are many opportunities for artists in the global economy.
Motion Picture and Video Industries:
The motion picture and video industries lead employment growth in southwestern British Columbia. This suggests that there are many opportunities for artists in these industries.
Annual Revenues for Film, TV, and Digital Media:
Annual revenues for film, TV, and digital media combined add up to $3 billion. This suggests that there is a strong demand for creative professionals in these industries.
Self-Employment:
Many artists choose to be self-employed. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful as self-employed artists. UFV offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree that students can pursue after completing the Visual Arts diploma.
Related Industries:
The program prepares students for careers in other related industries, such as business, tourism, entertainment, and broadcasting. This suggests that graduates of the program have a wide range of career options.
Entry Requirements:
For BC Students:
- Graduation from secondary school with a minimum overall average of 65%, or equivalent.
- Completion of English 12 or equivalent (minimum 60%).
For Students Outside of BC:
- Completion of secondary school with a minimum overall average of 80%, or equivalent.
- Completion of a course equivalent to English 12 (minimum 80%).
Additional Requirements for Students Outside of Canada:
- Official academic transcripts translated to English.
- Proof of English language proficiency, such as:
- IELTS: minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band less than 6.0.
- TOEFL: minimum score of 83 for internet-based test, with no section score less than 20.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The University of the Fraser Valley requires all students to demonstrate proficiency in English. If your first language is not English, you must provide proof of English proficiency, such as the above-mentioned IELTS or TOEFL scores.
