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Faculty of Arts & Science

Bringing ideas about art, culture, science and technology into conversation with creative practice

Every student at OCAD University comes to the Faculty of Arts & Science to advance their creative practice with required and elective courses in a wide range of topics, including global studies of art and design history, social science, humanities, business, science and technology.

All our work is guided by principles of decolonization, social justice and sustainability.

In addition to our Liberal Arts courses, Arts & Science is home to five degrees programs. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in a wide variety of professions including game design, publishing, entrepreneurship and curation.

Undergraduate programs

Creative Writing, BFA

This unique program enriches imaginations, broadens perspectives and develops each writer’s voice through a writing-intensive experience.

Digital Futures, BDes

Students learn creative approaches to digital technologies including games, wearable technology, mobile apps, VR, interactive installations and augmented reality.

Indigenous Visual Culture, BFA

This program combines studio learning with courses in the cultural, social and political history of Indigenous peoples.

Visual and Critical Studies, BA

Cutting-edge art history incorporating global and Indigenous perspectives.

Criticism & Curatorial Practice, BFA

Canada's first undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers as curators and critics.

Liberal Studies

This program offers a vibrant array of courses in humanities, social sciences, science and entrepreneurship.

FAS events

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FAS news

OCAD U and EU transform Canada Malting Silos into monumental living body of water at Nuit Blanche

On Oct. 4, OCAD U and the European Union light up Nuit Blanche with a vast cinematic projection at Toronto’s waterfront.

September 17, 2025

Design as a catalyst for positive change

As founder of the social innovation lab, DESIGNwith, Associate Professor Ranee Lee is advancing research on sustainability, community impact and biomaterials – bridging academia, industry and public engagement.

September 15, 2025

Celebrating the revitalization of Butterfield Park

OCAD University welcomed over 100 guests to Butterfield Park on September 10 to celebrate the revitalized space and recognize the donors who made the transformation possible.

September 12, 2025

David Binet’s philanthropy surpasses $1 million with new gift to OCAD U

OCAD University is recognizing long-time supporter and former Board of Governors Vice-Chair David Binet, whose philanthropy to the University has now surpassed $1 million, with a recent $700,000 gift to establish the David Binet Design Leadership Fund.

September 11, 2025

OCAD U hosts global colloquium to reimagine birth spaces

Transforming Birthspace: A Global Colloquium, from Oct. 24 to 27, features global experts who will share research, case studies and strategies for designing respectful and supportive spaces for childbirth.

September 10, 2025