Overview

The Contemporary Arts M.A. at Simon Fraser University provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary framework for scholars to examine the fine and performing arts through diverse theoretical lenses. This programme is designed for those seeking to bridge the gap between academic research and professional application within the vibrant cultural landscape of downtown Vancouver.

Why Contemporary Arts at Simon Fraser University?

Students benefit from an intimate learning environment that encourages creative experimentation alongside M.F.A. candidates. The School for the Contemporary Arts maintains an international reputation, offering access to high-profile facilities such as the Audain Gallery. Institutional strengths include the Audain Visual Artist in Residence programme and the student-led Comparative Media Arts Journal, which provide unique platforms for professional engagement and scholarly publication.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 3431 per semester
National fee: CAD 3150 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and professional development within the arts. Modules may include:

Research Methods in Contemporary Arts
Research Colloquium in Contemporary Arts
Professional Practices Seminar
New Approaches in Visual Art and Culture
New Approaches in Moving-Image Studies
New Approaches in Digital Art Studies
New Approaches in Performance Studies
New Approaches to Sound and the Arts
Practicum in Contemporary Arts

Careers with Contemporary Arts

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of leadership roles within the global cultural sector. The programme equips students with the skills necessary for successful careers in arts administration, curating, and professional arts writing. Many alumni secure positions as festival programmers, gallery managers, and researchers within artist-run centres. Additionally, the rigorous academic training provides a strong foundation for those intending to pursue doctoral studies in the fine and performing arts.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Research Methods in Contemporary Arts

Research Colloquium in Contemporary Arts

Extended Essay in Contemporary Arts

New approaches in visual art and culture

New approaches in moving-image studies

New approaches in digital art studies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-31 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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IELTS

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Credits

30 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Burnaby, Canada

Disciplines

Visual Arts Art History View 35 other Masters in Visual Arts in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

a bachelor’s degree from SFU or its equivalent from a recognized institution.

a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.33 scale, or 3.33 on a 4.33 scale (B+) based on the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses. All graduate work is also considered.

submitted evidence, usually references from qualified referees, of the applicant’s ability to undertake advanced studies in the area of interest.

proof of English Language proficiency.

In exceptional circumstances, a student may be admitted with lower formal qualifications when there is significant experience relevant to the proposed area of scholarship.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

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Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Simon Fraser University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

1715 CAD / year

≈ 1715 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

1575 CAD / year

≈ 1575 CAD / year

Living costs

Burnaby

Canada

1600 - 2700 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Contemporary Arts.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Burnaby

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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