Criticism & Curatorial Practice (MFA) in Canada at OCAD Canada

Program Overview for Criticism & Curatorial Practice (MFA) in Canada:

The Master of Arts in Curatorial Criticism and Practice provides an excellent opportunity for graduate students to explore and experiment with contemporary art, media, and design by engaging in the history, theory, and critique of curatorial practice.

OCAD University's unique curriculum focuses on the practice of curation and criticism, leading to a master of fine arts degree. Our graduate and part-time teachers include practical and critical curators who bring in-depth knowledge and experience to critical research and curatorial practice. 

OCAD University's excellent reputation has attracted internationally renowned chartered institutions to participate in its annual ArtistinResidence program, helping students establish planned internships in Canada and abroad. 

Criticism and Curatorial Practice MFA is a full-time, 60-credit course, generally completed in two academic years or five consecutive semesters. With the approval of the course director, some part-time students may be admitted with a more flexible completion schedule. The 
course includes the following content: 
 

• Five basic seminars (critical theory, research methods, exhibition topics, critical writing, critical writing, and curatorial research)
• Two basic practices and thematic research/seminars
• One based on theory and institution Integrated practice courses, "internal curatorial practice", which includes a collaborative group expo
• Two seminars or elective research
• Personal research
•  Summer internship or study abroad
• Thesis: curatorial expo and critical essay, or critical essay 

Students entering the program will have a four-year bachelor's degree in studio art or design, art history/visual culture or related disciplines, and several years of practical experience. They will be interested in increasing their existing knowledge base through a research program that promotes all-around exploration and experimentation of contemporary art and/or curatorial and critical design practices and provides the required history, theory, and criticism.

The objectives of the MFA in Criticism and Curatorial Practice are: 

• To ensure that students acquire advanced research skills in visual and academic investigations in the fields of art, media, design practice, and critical theory;
• For Research Methods for Art, Media and Design in Criticism and Curatorial Practice Contributing to new knowledge in the field;
• Promote the development of practices that promote sustainability, social responsibility, and diverse social and cultural perspectives;
• Develop and promote curatorial and critical practices in design;
• Promoting contemporary art in a public setting, Design media and practice;
• Contributes to the development of Canadian art, the media, and design criticism;  
• Contributes to the development of public and private galleries and museums in the field of curatorial practice and independent curatorial practice.

The eligibility for Criticism & Curatorial Practice (MFA) in Canada for both domestic and international student is:

Application for admission into the MFA in Criticism & Curatorial Practice at OCAD U is a highly competitive process. Applicants must hold a BA, BFA, BDes, or comparable honors degree/certification with an average of 75 percent (B+) or better during the last two years of study, or must demonstrate exceptional experience/expertise as a practicing artist, designer, critic or curator.

All applicants must demonstrate creative and conceptual competence at a high level. Other Admission Requirement:

• Research Proposal: Applicants should clearly outline their background in their area of concentration and describe their research interest or theme for their graduate work in the program. Appendices including bibliography and examples of visual work may be included if appropriate. It is strongly suggested that applicants identify at least one graduate faculty member they would like to work with during their studies. The proposal must be typed and should not exceed 500 words.
• CV: Applicants should include an updated copy of their curriculum vitae.
• Transcripts
• Three (3) reference letters.

These are the test eligibilities for the Criticism & Curatorial Practice (MFA) to qualify.

The international student tuition fees and costs for Criticism & Curatorial Practice (MFA) in Canada.

Contact info:

Keith Bresnahan, PhD
Graduate Program Director, Criticism & Curatorial Practice
kbresnahan@faculty.ocadu.ca
416-977-6000, Ext.426

Funding options for international students in Canada are limited. It is important that you have a solid financial plan in place before beginning your studies. In order to obtain a study permit, you will be required to prove to Canadian immigration officials that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself.