OCAD University is Canada's oldest and largest university dedicated to art, design, and media, located in downtown Toronto. Founded in 1876, it offers 17 undergraduate programs and 7 graduate programs, known for its studio-based learning and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
| Acronym | OCAD U |
| Motto / Slogan | Imagination is everything |
| Colour | Silver |
| Founded | 1876 |
| Undergraduate Programmes | |
| Postgraduate Programmes | 7 |
| Location | Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Address | 100 McCaul Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1W1 |
OCAD University advances interdisciplinary art and design education and research grounded in liberal arts and science and driven by leading-edge technologies, innovative teaching and professional practice.
OCAD University is a vibrant community of bold, curious and compassionate artists, designers and scholars imagining and creating a joyful, equitable and sustainable world.
OCAD University's primary objective is to provide innovative art and design education, research, and practice, contributing to a broader STEAM + D (science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and design) field that prioritizes creativity, sustainability, and social transformation.
OCAD U emphasizes practical, studio-based education with access to over 20 unique, state-of-the-art shops and production facilities (including for woodworking, ceramics, digital printing, and 3D animation), allowing students to experiment with both traditional tools and new technology.
OCAD U attracts a diverse body of students and faculty from around the world, fostering a creative and supportive community that encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
The campus is in the heart of Canada's cultural capital, steps away from the Art Gallery of Ontario, cultural hubs, and the business district. This provides a vibrant, inspiring backdrop and access to a vast network of creative professionals and opportunities.
Students benefit from experiential learning opportunities, field placements, internships, and in-class projects with real-world industry partners. The RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers provides support for early-career advancement, including one-on-one career advising for up to five years post-graduation.
For detailed information on the application requirements and program-specific eligibility, view the Undergraduate Application Requirements page and the English Language Proficiency Requirements.
For detailed information on the application requirements and program-specific eligibility, view the Graduate Application Requirements page and the English Language Proficiency Requirements.
FOR UNDERGRADUATE: All applications for admission are made online through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
FOR POSTGRADUATE: All applicants to Graduate Studies at OCAD University must complete a graduate application through the Graduate Application Portal. If you are applying to more than one graduate program, you must submit a separate application for each program for which you wish to be considered.
Email: [email protected]
Phone : 1-800-382-6516
Ana Serrano, who assumed the role of President and Vice-Chancellor on July 1, 2020, is an award-winning leader with more than 25 years of experience in transforming organizations, creating award-winning digital products and cultural experiences, and designing cutting-edge programs to strengthen creative sectors and industries.
OCAD University was founded as the Ontario School of Art in 1876 by the Ontario Society of Artists, and had 14 registered students. In 1912, they were incorporated as the Ontario College of Art (OCA), becoming Canada’s first school dedicated to educating artists. Esteemed artists such as G.A. Reid and J.E.H. MacDonald of the Group of Seven have served as presidents, and many celebrated alums have come from here.
