A male student painting on a canvas with art supplies in front of him

Fine Arts

Intake(s):
Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer
Available as:
Honours Specialization, Specialization, Major, Minor
Available to:

 All Students

Degree type:
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts

**

Course load:
Full-time, Part-time
Dual Degree Option
PGWP Eligible

Unleash Your Creativity. Shape the Future of Art.

The Fine Arts program at Nipissing University is designed for students who are passionate about artistic expression and eager to develop their skills in a dynamic, supportive, and creative environment. Whether your interest lies in painting, sculpture, digital media, photography, or mixed media, our program provides you with the foundational techniques, conceptual thinking, and hands-on experience to bring your artistic vision to life. 

Program Highlights

Through hands-on studio learning and critical inquiry, students in the Fine Arts program explore artistic practice across traditional and contemporary forms, including:

  • Visual Arts & Design Fundamentals: Master core techniques in traditional and digital art-making.
  • Contemporary Art Practices: Explore modern artistic movements and examine the role of art in culture, politics, and society.
  • Creative Problem-Solving: Develop critical thinking and conceptual skills to expand and challenge artistic expression.
  • Professional Studio Practice: Gain real-world experience working in studios and preparing for exhibitions.
  • Portfolio Development: Build a strong, professional artistic portfolio to support careers or graduate study.

Why Nipissing's Fine Arts Program?

Studio-Based Learning

Gain extensive hands-on experience in state-of-the-art studios with access to professional materials and tools.

Personalized Instruction

Benefit from small class sizes and one-on-one mentorship from experienced faculty who are practicing artists and industry professionals.

Diverse Artistic Disciplines

Develop skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, digital media, installation, and sculpture, building a strong and versatile portfolio.

Exhibition & Career Development

Showcase your work in on-campus galleries and public exhibitions while developing professional skills for a career in the arts.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Combine your Fine Arts studies with courses in history, theory, and contemporary art movements to enhance your creative perspective.

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Admission Requirements

To qualify for admission, students must meet the General Admission Requirements, plus program specific prerequisites.

General Admission Requirements include:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma including six 4U/4M courses

Future Careers

A Fine Arts degree from Nipissing University opens doors to diverse career paths in creative industries, education, cultural institutions, and digital media. Graduates may pursue roles in:

Creative & Professional Arts Practice
Professional artists, illustrators, graphic designers, multimedia artists, or digital artists.

Design & Visual Communication
Art directors, set designers for film and theatre, visual content creators, or branding and design specialists.

Museums & Cultural Institutions
Museum curators, gallery assistants, exhibition coordinators, or collections assistants.

Education & Community Arts
Art educators, community arts facilitators, workshop instructors, or arts program coordinators.

Graduate & Specialized Study
Fine arts, design, museum studies, education, or other postgraduate programs leading to careers in research, academia, or advanced creative practice.

Real People, Real Impact

Discover how real students have found support, opportunity, and belonging at Nipissing.
Some student treading through the snow in front of the student centre
As a Fine Arts student, I have access to wonderful facilities and a variety of opportunities to help me grow as an artist. The professors and staff are very supportive and push me to improve my craft. For that I am grateful.

Dakota C.

Class of 2028

A staff and 3 students standing in the library

What I love about the Fine Arts program is the supportive community and opportunities, both on and off campus. I have the chance to connect with artists and academics that share similar interests and submit my artwork to different galleries and exhibitions.

Katelyn A.

Class of 2026

Program Requirements

How the Common Degree Structure Works

At Nipissing, you can choose a minor, major, specialization, or honours specialization—each offering a different level of focus and flexibility to match your goals.

Check out this breakdown of the Common Degree Structure to see how you can make your interests fit your degree.

Program Options & Course Requirements

Find required courses for each type of specialization using this link. 

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Other Programs

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Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts
A classroom full of students looking at their monitor with the professor at the front
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science

Notes:

  • Bachelor of Arts – Studio Arts, or Art History and Visual Studies major
  • The Bachelor of Fine Arts does not follow the same degree format as the majority of other programs. This program you can either graduate with an Honours degree or a degree without Honours.

Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.