Program Overview

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Introduction to the Master of Arts in Contemporary Art Theory

The Department of Visual Arts offers a graduate program leading to the degree of Master of Arts in Contemporary Art Theory. This bilingual program is designed to develop research capabilities in various fields of art history and to graduate scholars specializing in areas such as contemporary art, contemporary visual culture (cinema, television, internet), and visual theory.

Program Overview

The program is one year in duration and is offered on a full-time basis only. It is governed by the academic regulations in force for graduate studies. The program consists of two options: a thesis option and a course option.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for admission, candidates must hold an honors bachelor's degree or equivalent in art history or a closely related field, with a minimum average of A- (80%) in the last two years of study. Candidates who are not graduates with specialization may, in specific cases, be recommended by the Department of Visual Arts for admission to a qualifying program.

Language Requirements

The majority of seminars are bilingual, with French and English used equally in teaching. Students may express themselves in the language of their choice but must have a good understanding of the other language, both spoken and written. According to the University of Ottawa's regulations, assignments, exams, and research papers may be submitted in English or French.

Program Structure

Thesis Option

The thesis option consists of 15 credits of coursework and a thesis. The required courses are:

• ART 5971: Art and Cultural Theory
• ART 5518: Special Topics in Contemporary Art Theory
• ART 6972: Art and Its Mediation
• ART 6973: The Work of Art in Context
• 3 credits of elective coursework in visual arts or a secondary discipline

Course Option

The course option consists of 24 credits of coursework to be completed in three terms (12 months) or two terms if courses are taken in the fall and winter. The required courses are:

• ART 5971: Art and Cultural Theory
• ART 5518: Special Topics in Contemporary Art Theory
• ART 6972: Art and Its Mediation
• ART 6973: The Work of Art in Context
• 9 credits of elective coursework in visual arts or a secondary discipline

Research at the University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa is one of the top 10 research universities in Canada. Our research is founded on excellence, relevance, and impact, and is conducted in an environment of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The University's research community is developed around four strategic axes:

• Creating a sustainable environment
• Promoting just societies
• Shaping the digital world
• Fostering health and well-being throughout life

Research at the Faculty of Arts

The Faculty of Arts is proud of the cutting-edge research conducted by its professors. To better promote this research to the university community and the general public, the Faculty has created three types of research promotion activities: the Dean's Lecture Series, Treasures of the Library, and Encounters with Excellence.

Facilities, Research Centers, and Institutes at the Faculty of Arts

The Faculty of Arts is home to several research centers and institutes, including:

• The Centre for Research on Canadian Francophone Culture
• The Institute for Indigenous Research and Studies
• The Institute for Science, Society, and Policy
• The Official Languages and Bilingualism Institute (ILOB)
• The Morisset Library

Course Offerings

A wide range of courses are available to students in the Master of Arts in Contemporary Art Theory program, including:

• ART 5063: Independent Studio
• ART 5115: Special Topics in History and Theory of Art
• ART 5118: Special Topics in Contemporary Art Theory
• ART 5119: Curating Contemporary Art
• ART 5515: Special Topics in History and Theory of Art
• ART 5518: Special Topics in Contemporary Art Theory
• ART 5519: Curating Contemporary Art
• ART 5900: Professional Internship
• ART 5901: Professional Internship: Ottawa Art Gallery Curation
• ART 5915: Special Topics in History and Theory of Art
• ART 5916: Special Topics in Arts, Heritage, and Policy
• ART 5918: Special Topics in Contemporary Art Theory
• ART 5920: Art and Well-Being
• ART 5955: Research Seminar in Art History
• ART 5956: Directed Research
• ART 5961: Integrated Studio I
• ART 5962: Integrated Studio II
• ART 5971: Art and Cultural Theory
• ART 6118: Advanced Topics in Contemporary Art Theory and Practice
• ART 6518: Advanced Topics in Contemporary Art Theory and Practice
• ART 6964: Advanced Studio I
• ART 6965: Advanced Studio II
• ART 6972: Art and Its Mediation
• ART 6973: The Work of Art in Context
• ART 6999: Major Research Paper
• ART 7999: Thesis Presentation