Overview
NSCAD University is a public art, craft and design university in downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, governed under the University Act of Nova Scotia by a Board of Governors and a Senate.
It began in 1887 as the Victoria School of Art and Design, founded by educator Anna Leonowens with Helen Kenny and the sisters Ella and Eliza Ritchie to mark Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee; it was incorporated by provincial charter as the Nova Scotia College of Art in 1925 and became the degree-granting Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in 1969, the year design studies were formally recognized. Teaching is spread across three campuses: the Fountain Campus, a block of heritage buildings on Duke Street that the university bought in 2002; the Academy Campus beside the Halifax Citadel; and the Port Campus on the Halifax waterfront.
Every undergraduate starts with a year-long Foundation Studies program before moving into a Bachelor of Fine Arts major in ceramics, drawing, expanded media, film, interdisciplinary arts, jewellery design and metalsmithing, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture or textiles and fashion, a Bachelor of Design in interdisciplinary design, or a Bachelor of Arts in art history. Graduate study covers a studio-based Master of Fine Arts, a Master of Design and a Master of Arts in Art Education, alongside a post-baccalaureate certificate in design and visual arts certificates.
The university runs the Anna Leonowens Gallery and the NSCAD Press, and its Lithography Workshop prints are held by collections such as the Victoria and Albert Museum; Andy Warhol accepted an honorary degree here in 1972.
Roughly $200,000 in internal and external scholarships and bursaries is awarded each academic year, with entrance awards ranging from $500 to $9,000.
Location & Contact
Below are NSCAD University's address, location, and primary contact channels.
Academic Details
A snapshot of NSCAD University's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.
Academic Structures
The academic units through which NSCAD University delivers teaching are listed below.
Unit 9 items
- Academy Campus
- Division of Craft
- Division of Design
- Division of Fine Art
- Division of Foundation
- Division of Historical and Critical Studies
- Division of Media Arts
- Fountain Campus
- Port Campus
Programs Offered
Search and filter NSCAD University's available programmes by degree level.
20 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada
Bachelor's Degree 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
Master's Degree 3 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 3 programmes
Scholarships in Canada
Canada-wide scholarships, relevant to students considering NSCAD University or other institutions there.
How to apply to NSCAD University
Step-by-step guidance for applying to NSCAD University, in five steps.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
NSCAD University's catalogue includes 20 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for NSCAD University's admissions process.
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3
Get your documents ready
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Submit your completed application through NSCAD University's official website at nscad.ca. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. You can reach the institution by email at info@nscad.ca or by phone at +1 (888) 444 5989. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about NSCAD University
Quick reference for NSCAD University: founding, control type, and recognition status.
In what year was NSCAD University established?
NSCAD University was founded in 1887 (approximately 139 years ago).
In which city is NSCAD University?
NSCAD University is based in Halifax, Canada.
Is NSCAD University a public or private institution?
It is a public higher-education institution.
How many students study at NSCAD University?
NSCAD University has approximately 500-999 students.
What programmes are available at NSCAD University?
NSCAD University offers bachelor's and master's programmes.
What is NSCAD University's academic structure?
The institution comprises 9 academic units.
Who recognises NSCAD University?
Yes, NSCAD University is recognised by Department of Advanced Education of Nova Scotia.
Where can I learn more about NSCAD University?
The institution's website is nscad.ca.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada
The institutions topping Canada's rankings give national context for NSCAD University. Context matters because employer perception in Canada often correlates with national rankings.
Members of Universities Canada (UC)
Below: other Universities Canada (UC) member institutions, alongside NSCAD University.
Faculties at nearby universities
These universities are located near NSCAD University, listed below for students comparing options by location.
Where Else to Study Visual Arts
Below: other Canada universities that offer Visual Arts programmes.
Universities Compared with NSCAD University
Universities of a similar scale and standing to NSCAD University are listed below.
Studying in Canada: guides and resources
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