In 1973, an Art in America article suggested NSCAD just might be “the best art school in North America.” Three decades later, our reputation still holds strong. Maclean’s magazine lauds us as “a big reason Halifax is seen as one of the hippest cities in the land,” in its national guide to universities. Our creative, thought-provoking environment spills out into the city, with dozens of galleries, pubs and eateries within a very close radius of the school. When it comes to our actual studies, NSCAD has several major advantages over other art schools. Our modest class sizes foster intimate, in-depth discussion, and a high teacher-student ratio means you’ll benefit from more individual attention. Students here have access to much more studio space, and much of it is open around the clock, seven days a week. The size of the school also helps break down the borders between fine art, craft and design. Many students opt for interdisciplinary studies, using a variety of media and approaches in their work.

There are no boring institutional walls here – our Victorian-era campus surrounds you with arched windows and harbour views, hardwood floors, brick walls and high ceilings. Our four-storey library, one of Canada’s finest art libraries, offers many nooks and crannies for quiet study. Our student lounge is a comfortable gathering spot, with couches and tables, vending machines, and a snack bar offering hearty lunches, including vegetarian options. Adjacent is the SUNSCAD office – every student is a member of our student union, an active lobbying and advocacy organization for post-secondary education issues.

Student exhibitions are a highlight, with opening receptions each Monday evening at our Anna Leonowens Gallery and twice a month on alternating Tuesday evenings at the Port Loggia Gallery. You can also test your artwork in the marketplace through the Seeds Gallery, a shop for student and alumni work, as well as testing your creative talents and gaining practical experience with a variety of community projects, including the Wearable Art Show. Organized by textiles and fashion students, the Wearable Art Show is an alternative fashion show fundraiser for the AIDS Coalition of Nova Scotia.

If you want to explore other parts of the world, NSCAD offers exchanges with 70 art institutions in 15 countries as far as Mexico and Korea, and our World Travel Program offers affordable school trips to key historical and cultural sites.