Call for Applications: Fall 2025 Art Diploma Program at Dundas Valley School of Art

Photo courtesy of DVSA.

Studio Fine Art Practice & Theory Diploma Program

Places are still available for Fall 2025 entry into this full-time, accredited diploma program at one of Canada’s leading independent art schools located in Hamilton, ON.

Gain the skills and knowledge you need to move forward as a professional artist and/or work in the visual arts industry.

Established in 1964, Dundas Valley School of Art (DVSA) offers a unique learning experience and a vibrant and creative environment. It has provided the springboard for numerous visual artists who have gone on to achieve national and international success.

DVSA’s Studio Fine Art Practice & Theory is a 3-year diploma program dedicated to the study and practice of contemporary art within a multidisciplinary environment. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your visual art studio practice to a high level while focusing on the uniqueness of your desired interests and concerns.

The wide-ranging curriculum includes studio work in two and three-dimensional studies as well as time-based work, along with contemporary critical art theory and art history. It also incorporates elements such as marketing for artists, grant writing, financial management, project planning, exhibition curation and more.

Offered as an innovative alternative to conventional art education, the curriculum is flexible and based on the individual needs of each student. Unlike larger institutions, at DVSA we’re able to offer small class sizes and provide intimate one-on-one instruction in a focused environment where you can grow and be challenged.

Successful graduates will receive a college diploma in Fine Art and Theory.

Photo courtesy of DVSA.

We offer:

  • Small class sizes and intimate one-on-one instruction in a focused environment where you can grow and be challenged
  • Access to the school’s part-time classes in drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography and more as elective options
  • Artist Talks and studio visits with local artists
  • Opportunities to exhibit in the school’s Gallery which includes training in hanging and lighting exhibitions, writing an artist’s statement and pricing your work
  • Exposure to a wide-ranging and well-educated audience of DVSA students, faculty and members of the community.

The program is open to students of all ages who have successfully completed Grade 12 and demonstrate evidence they may well succeed in the program. DVSA promotes a creative culture where we can be our best selves, supporting one another and making a difference to the individuals and communities we serve. We are committed to practices of anti-oppression, anti-racism, equity and accessibility and ensuring safer spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ students and faculty.

Applications are now being accepted for Fall 2025. We are looking for enthusiastic students ready to make a serious commitment to learning and growing as a creative visual artist. We welcome you to submit an application with encouragement for individuals from equity-seeking communities.

Application Deadline: Open until filled

For more information on the program and how to apply, visit dvsa.ca/full-time.

Photo courtesy of DVSA.

About Dundas Valley School of Art

One of Canada’s leading independent art schools, Dundas Valley School of Art (DVSA) has served the Hamilton, ON region since 1964 and provides high-quality and accessible visual arts education to over 8,000 registrants annually. Beginner to Advanced level programs are offered for individuals of all ages in art history, ceramics, drawing, jewellery-making, painting, printmaking, photography and sculpture, and are taught by more than 75 highly regarded faculty members who are also working artists. The school also offers a full-time diploma program in Studio Fine Art.

Level of accessibility: Accessible

Dundas Valley School of Art
21 Ogilvie Street
Dundas, ON L9H 2S1
905.628.6357
info@dvsa.ca

Website: dvsa.ca
Diploma program: dvsa.ca/full-time

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