OCAD University: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

OCAD University had its name changed to the Ontario College of Art and Design in 1996, indicating the stellar growth of design-based programs. Although The university status was granted in 2002, it was designated as an OCAD university in 2010, while the relocation to the current site took place in 1882. 

Education at OCAD University

The institution is known for its emphasis on academics, possessing an undergraduate student count of 4,423 and 319 graduate students. The international student percentage is 21% at the university. There are several faculties, including Design, Art, Arts and Science, Continuing Studies, Graduate Studies, and more. There are English Language Learning programs, exchange programs, independent undergraduate studies, and more. 

USPs of OCAD University

Some of the USPs of the institution include the following: 

• Highly-ranked courses that fuse innovative learning methods with robust curricula prepare students to fulfil future careers. 
• Student support with career placements and recruitment. 
• Network of distinguished alumni with several industry leaders. 
• Experiential and studio-based research and education model with state of the art infrastructure and world-class faculty members. 
• Three bachelor’s streams and 18 majors and 20+ minors in related subjects including the latest innovations such as wearable technology. 

The OCAD University acceptance rate is 40-50%. The employment rates are high for students at OCAD University. They stand at 91.12% for students within two years of graduation. The overall employment rate is 78.88% within six months of graduation for students. The high employment rates aside, the institution also offers dedicated career services and many other solutions. 

Famous Alumni of OCAD University

The list of famous alumni includes the following names: 

• George A. Reid, iconic painter and designer. 
• Arthur Lismer, Group of Seven member and former vice-principal of the institution. 
• J.E.H. MacDonald, Group of Seven member and former principal of the institution. 
• Aimee Chan, actress. 
• Clark Johnson, director and actor. 
• Franklin Carmichael, artist and Group of Seven members. 
• Gregory Gallant or Seth, cartoonist. 
• Floria Sigismondi is a screenwriter, movie director, artist, music video director, and photographer. 
• Alfred Joseph Casson, Group of Seven members and artist. 

Address

100 McCaul St, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 1W1, Canada. 

Public/Private Status

The university is a public institution. 

OCAD University Ranking

The OCAD university is listed as 3,173 out of 14,160 institutions worldwide and 20 out of 24 for Ontario as per organisational data. As per QS WUR rankings, it is ranked as #101-150 by subject.

Top Offered Courses at OCAD University

Some of the popular courses for students include: 

• Master of Design- Strategic Foresight and Innovation, Inclusive Design, Digital Futures, Design for Health, etc. 
• Interdisciplinary Master’s in Art, Media and Design. 

There are innumerable majors and minors, including innovative aspects like wearable technology and more. 

The approximate OCAD University fees are $12,915.70 for 2.5 credits or roughly INR 9.69 lakh. 

Required Exams for OCAD University

Many examinations are a part of the OCAD University requirements. They include the following: 

• TOEFL iBT- minimum score of 90 with a minimum of 22 in speaking, writing, and reading, along with at least 20 in Listening. 
• IELTS Academic- Minimum score of 7 with at least seven as the minimum band score in reading, writing, listening and speaking. 
• Duolingo English Test (DET)- Minimum score of 120. 

Admission Requirements for OCAD University

The OCAD University admissions requirements include the following: 

• Official academic transcripts for courses, grades, and also degree certificates. 
• A copy of the grading scale/legend should be included. 
• Documents from any non-English-speaking academic institution should come with the certified English translation or WES assessment. 
• Three reference letters were completed via the application portal. 
• Proof of English language proficiency. 
• Completion of either secondary school or bachelor’s degree for undergraduate and graduate course applicants.
• Application fee of CAD 110 (INR 6432) payable through a portal called graduate application portal. 

Available Scholarships at OCAD University

There are Governor’s General Academic Medals which are annually given to undergraduate and graduate students showing stellar academic records upon graduation. This is called the Gold Medal for graduate programs and the Silver Medal for bachelor’s programs. They are given at the spring convocation ceremonies on behalf of the governor-general. To avail of such scholarships, no application is required.

About Placements at OCAD University

There is a specialised Career Development Office at the institution, part of the RBC Centre for Emerging Artists and Designers. This cell offers resources, guidance, and new opportunities for students with proper networks to link them to potential employers and partnership opportunities. The office enables relationships with recruiters and paid options for new creative projects and work. There are student and alumni employment/job boards and the art and design graduate school fair. 

Students also benefit from the information and workshop sessions, Career launchers for senior students and graduates to begin their practices, cultural community expos and specialised design career fairs. The office also helps connect students with established alumni, creating invaluable mentorship and guidance opportunities. The OCAD University Talent Network is the exclusive job board with several paid creative job opportunities. Students can interact with companies and recruiters at the Design Career Fair while tapping into great opportunities with the Career Launcher initiative.

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