CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Certificate programs provide many opportunities for people who
wish to pursue studies after obtaining an undergraduate degree.
They prepare you for a full graduate degree, augment your professional certifications, and expand your expertise in a particular field of practice.
When to pursue certificate studies?
The Post-Baccalaureate in Design is not specific to any particular area of design, as it is meant to be a generalist design credential — the certificate program may be the recommended preparatory course of study for students wishing to apply to the MDes. 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 — the Visual Arts Certificate in Studio is designed for both art specialists and non-art specialists. The Visual Arts Certificate for Teachers is designed for all teachers interested in strengthening their knowledge of the visual arts for integration into their teaching practices.
Expand your knowledge, create more opportunity.
PBAC | VAC | VACT
PBAC | Post-Baccalaureate 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 Master 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.
VAC | 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.
VACT | 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.
If you believe that
creative ideas can build
a better world,
there’s a place for
you here.