Program Overview

---

Fine Arts Diploma

Overview

The Fine Arts Diploma program at North Island College prepares students to become professional artists, focusing on traditional, interdisciplinary, and digital art practices. The program enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for a career or further education. Students work across mediums like printmaking, video, painting, drawing, digital media, ceramics, photography, and sculpture in NIC's top-tier fine arts studios.

Location

• Comox Valley

Length

• 2 years

Delivery

• In-person
• Full-time or part-time

Admission Requirements

• C in English 12 or equivalent or successful English assessment

Course Requirements

Year 1

• FIN - 100 Introduction to Art History and Visual Culture I
• FIN - 101 Introduction to Art History and Visual Culture II or FIN - 106 Art History and Visual Culture: Special Topics
• FIN - 110 Drawing & 2-Dimensional Language I
• FIN - 111 Drawing & 2-Dimensional Language II
• FIN - 120 Painting: Colour & Perception
• FIN - 121 Painting: Colour & Application
• FIN - 130 Foundation Studio in 3-Dimensional Art and Design
• FIN - 140 Creative Processes
• Plus 2 courses from the following:
  • FIN - 115 Introduction to Printmaking
  • FIN - 131 Foundation Studio in 3D Visualization + Media
  • FIN - 135 Introduction to Ceramics
  • FIN - 145 Introduction to Photography

Year 2

• All students will be required to take:
  • FIN - 210 Drawing & 2-Dimensional Language III
  • FIN - 211 Drawing & 2-Dimensional Language IV
  • PHI - 240 Philosophy of Art
  • FIN - 250 Modern Art History or FIN - 251 Modern Art History and Visual Culture: Special Topics
• Plus 2 courses from the following:
  • FIN - 200 Video + Sound 1
  • FIN - 215 Intaglio Printmaking
  • FIN - 220 Painting Intermediate 1
  • FIN - 230 3D + Integrated Media Art I
  • FIN - 235 Ceramics Intermediate I
  • FIN - 245 Photography: Integrated Practices
• Plus 2 courses from the following:
  • FIN - 231 3D + Integrated Media Art II
  • FIN - 236 Ceramics Intermediate II
  • FIN - 247 Introduction to Digital Photography
  • FIN - 201 Video + Sound 2
  • FIN - 217 Screen Printing
  • FIN - 221 Painting Intermediate II
• Plus 2 English courses from the following:
  • ENG - 107 Introduction to Creative Writing: Fiction & Non-Fiction
  • ENG - 108 Introduction to Creative Writing: Poetry & Drama
  • ENG - 122 Reading Literature
  • ENG - 127 Indigenous Literatures in Canada
  • ENG - 115 Essay Writing and Critical Analysis
  • ENG - 116 Essay Writing & Indigenous Perspectives

Completion Requirements

The program is designed to enable full-time students to complete the diploma within two years. Students are advised to complete the program within four years of acceptance to maximize post-secondary transfer opportunities.

Careers

Our graduates can expect to find careers as painters, sculptors, and other visual artists. Some may even want to pursue work as art instructors, curators, gallery managers, or in creative industries such as design, media production, and cultural programming.

Costs

Domestic

• Tuition: $6,670
• Lab: $835
• Student Union: $410
• Learner Resource: $350
• Health and Dental: $570
• Total: $8,835

International

• Tuition: $29,810
• Lab: $835
• Student Union: $410
• Learner Resource: $350
• Health and Dental: $570
• Student Services Fee: $1,840
• Total: $33,815

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of NIC's Fine Arts program, and what disciplines are covered?

The program prepares you to become a professional artist, focusing on traditional, interdisciplinary, and digital art practices. It enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for your career or further education. You'll work across mediums like printmaking, video, painting, drawing, digital media, ceramics, photography, and sculpture in NIC's top-tier fine arts studios.

What makes the NIC Fine Arts program unique?

• Transfer Agreements: Seamlessly transfer to degree programs at institutions like Emily Carr University of Art + Design, UVic, VIU, and Alberta University of the Arts.
• World-Class Facilities: Access state-of-the-art studios designed to foster creativity and skill development.
• Professional Network: Join a province-wide network of professional artists and gain real-world experience curating and exhibiting art.
• Study Abroad: Earn transferable credits while traveling internationally, completing internships, or participating in co-op opportunities.

Can high school students take Fine Arts courses?

Yes, through our Dual Credit Program, high school students can earn university transfer credits while still in school, giving them a head start in post-secondary education. Reach out to a Dual Credit coordinator to learn more.

Will I gain real-world experience during the program?

Yes, students curate and participate in exhibitions, building practical experience and a professional portfolio. There is also an end-of-year exhibition showcasing our students' work in the Shadbolt Studios in Comox Valley.

Can I take this program part-time?

Yes, the program offers flexibility to accommodate part-time studies while ensuring you can transfer credits within the recommended timeframe.

Will I have a portfolio upon completing the Fine Arts program?

Yes, you'll graduate with a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your skills and creativity across a range of mediums. Throughout the program, you'll develop and refine your work in various disciplines—such as painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media—ensuring a professional and versatile portfolio to support your artistic career or further education.