Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art at Simon Fraser University (SFU) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a major in Visual Art is designed to prepare students to become practicing artists. This program combines broad-based practical studio courses with theoretical and historical seminars, enabling students to understand their artistic production in relation to contemporary visual art and developments in other disciplines. A significant focus is placed on understanding the role and responsibilities of the artist in today's society. Admission to the Visual Art Major is based on academic grades and a portfolio assessment, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their artistic journey.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in the arts, with a strong emphasis on both practical and theoretical aspects. The program includes:

Program Length: Typically spans four years.
Combination of practical studio courses and theoretical seminars.
Methods and concepts courses offered as upper and lower division courses.
Encouragement for students not initially accepted into the major to complete introductory courses.
Interdisciplinary offerings available within the school.

Students are advised to plan their studies carefully to maximize their educational experience, as not all courses are offered every term. The program is designed to foster a deep understanding of visual art in both historical and contemporary contexts.

Featured Experiences

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Hands-on studio courses that allow for practical application of artistic techniques.
Theoretical seminars that encourage critical thinking and discussion about contemporary art.
Portfolio assessments for entry into the major, ensuring a focus on individual artistic development.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with other art forms.
Access to a variety of studio environments for creative exploration.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Visual Artist: Create original artworks for exhibitions, galleries, and private collections.
Art Educator: Teach art in schools or community programs, sharing knowledge and skills with students.
Curator: Organize and manage art exhibitions in galleries and museums, selecting works and creating engaging displays.
Art Therapist: Use art as a therapeutic tool to help individuals express emotions and improve mental health.
Graphic Designer: Work in various industries to create visual content for branding, advertising, and marketing.

These career options reflect the diverse skills and knowledge gained through the program, preparing students for success in the dynamic field of visual arts.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Simon Fraser University (SFU) official website

Last updated on 2025-12-03

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Art program, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

Minimum GPA: A minimum of 6/10 in Senior Mathematics is required for admission (based on a 50% pass scale).
General Academic Requirements:
- Applicants must submit a transcript that includes interim marks for their senior year. Admission is calculated based on senior level academic subjects.
Faculty/Program-Specific Requirements:
- Applicants are required to submit a supplemental application, which may include an audition, interview, or portfolio, specifically for the Contemporary Arts program.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. It is advisable for students to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines. For any clarification or support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at SFU. All applicants, regardless of country of origin or citizenship status, will be required to have demonstrated competence in the English language prior to admission. Competence is required in all four of the following skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you must demonstrate English language competence through one of the options below:

Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country in which the principal language of instruction is English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a country in which the principal language of instruction is not English
- Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 3
Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a C- (C minus)
GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
- Minimum requirement: Grade of a 4 (or C)

Alternatively, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
- Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
Cambridge English Qualifications
- B2 First
- C1 Advanced
- C2 Proficiency
- Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
- Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
Pearson Test of English (PTE)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Minimum score: Overall score of 125

Enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language Requirement.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-12

Program overview