All NSCAD campuses closed at noon, February 24, 2024 due to freezing rain. All campuses will reopen at 9 a.m. on February 25.

Certificate
Programs

NSCAD University offers three certificate programs for those wishing to pursue studies after obtaining an undergraduate degree.

The Visual Arts Certificate in Studio

Individuals interested in expanding their expertise in the visual arts and have earned an undergraduate university degree have a unique opportunity to earn a graduate certificate from NSCAD University. Approved through the NSCAD Academic Council, NSCAD Board of Governors and Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission (MPHEC), the 30-credit Visual Arts Certificate in Studio is designed for both art specialists and non-art specialists.

The Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers

Approved by the Nova Scotia Department of Education, the 30-credit Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers meets Nova Scotia provincial requirements for one level of Advanced Teacher Certification. The program is designed for all teachers interested in strengthening their knowledge of the visual arts for integration into their teaching practices. Art specialist teachers will upgrade their studio skills and further their knowledge of contemporary visual arts issues. Non-art specialist teachers will gain an understanding of art-making, its application to the classroom and the role of the visual arts in contemporary culture.

The Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers

NSCAD University’s Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers has been designed specifically for teachers interested in strengthening their knowledge of the history and theories of visual art and in honing their studio skills and knowledge of teaching methods. Approved by the Nova Scotia Department of Education, Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission (MPHEC) and NSCAD’s Academic Council, the Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers meets Nova Scotia’s provincial requirements for one level of Advanced Teacher Certification.

Art specialist teachers will upgrade their studio skills and pedagogical practices in the visual arts and further their knowledge of art historical and critical studies. Non-specialist teachers will gain some experience and understanding of art-making, its application to the classroom and the role of the visual arts in contemporary culture.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Design

The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Design is a 30-credit program normally taken in the fall and winter semesters. It is composed of a mix of Studio (21 credits) and liberal arts and science (9 credits) courses. This program is not specific to any particular area of design, as it is meant to be a generalist design credential, in keeping with the broad, interdisciplinary approach in NSCAD’s Bachelot of Design (BDes) and Mater of Design (MDes). Qualified applicants will have at least a BDes granted by a postsecondary institution in which the language of instruction may or may not be English, a letter of intent stating their commitment to advanced design studies and a portfolio of visual work. The certificate program may be the recommended preparatory course of study for students wishing to apply to the MDes.