The Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCAD U) is a renowned institution located in Toronto, Canada, dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation through art, design, and digital media education. As Canada's largest and oldest university specializing in art and design, OCAD U offers a diverse range of programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as continuing studies and research opportunities. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD U provides a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where students can explore their artistic passions, engage in critical discourse, and develop the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in the creative industries.

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This is Canada’s top advertising program. Take classes in graphic design, branding, creative copywriting and career-building skills. You will learn storytelling from many different points of views. You will be encouraged to challenge tradition and consider different viewpoints and values. In fourth year, you’ll work in boot camps with real clients and create real campaigns. In the past, students have worked with McCain Pizza Pockets and Sony Playstation. This means you can say you’ve sold a creative concept before even finishing school – a huge advantage when you’re looking for a job. You’ll also benefit from guest speakers from Canada’s biggest ad agencies and have the opportunity to do internships. Acclaimed alum of the program include many top creative directors in Canada and worldwide, including Elspeth Lynn, Creative Director for Saatchi & Saatchi in London, UK, Wain Choi, Global VP ECD at Cheil Worldwide in Korea and Carlos Moreno, Global Chief Creative Officer for Cossette. Show less

First Year
In first year, you’ll take intro to advertising courses and a good base of art and design classes including:

Typography
Drawing
Colour and two dimensional design
Writing
Design history

Second Year
In second year, you’ll learn advertising strategy and concept. You’ll also take:

Digital advertising design
Typography
Photography
Your choice of classes in English, social sciences or humanities

Third Year
Third year features your choice of art classes and:

Advertising concepts
Advertising research
Art of persuasion
Advertising storytelling
Advertising copywriting
Retail advertising and user experience
Your choice of classes in English, social sciences or humanities

Fourth Year
In fourth year, you’ll work with real clients in advertising boot camp. You will create real campaigns from scratch and present it to clients such as McCain or Sony. You’ll also work on your thesis project and showcase your work at OCAD U’s GradEx, the biggest free art and design exhibition in Toronto with over 40,000 visitors.

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OCAD University, formerly known as the Ontario College of Art and Design University, is a leading institution dedicated to fostering innovation, creativity, and critical thinking in the fields of art, design, and digital media. Located in Toronto, Canada, OCAD U has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1876. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as continuing studies, research opportunities, and professional development courses. As Canada's largest and oldest university specialized in art and design, OCAD U is renowned for its forward-thinking approach to education and its commitment to preparing students for the rapidly evolving creative industries. The university embraces an interdisciplinary approach that encourages collaboration and exploration across disciplines, enabling students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the creative process. OCAD U boasts a vibrant and diverse community of students, faculty, and staff, who contribute to the rich tapestry of artistic expression and innovation on campus. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized studios, labs, and exhibition spaces, where students can experiment, create, and showcase their work. At OCAD U, students have the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty members who are accomplished artists, designers, and scholars in their respective fields. Through a combination of rigorous academic instruction, hands-on studio work, and critical discourse, students develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become leaders and change-makers in their chosen creative fields. Beyond the classroom, OCAD U actively promotes community engagement and collaboration. The university encourages students to connect with the vibrant arts and design scene in Toronto, forging meaningful partnerships with industry professionals and cultural organizations. This emphasis on real-world experience prepares students for successful careers and entrepreneurial endeavors in the global creative economy. With its rich heritage, commitment to innovation, and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, OCAD University continues to be at the forefront of art, design, and digital media education. It nurtures and empowers the next generation of creative thinkers, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and making a significant impact in the cultural landscape of Canada and beyond.

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You will need to book the accommodation after you have been accepted.

You can choose to live on campus or off campus in private accommodation.

How to book:

• Make a booking online after you have been accepted (in this case please let us know your choice when you apply).
• Register when you arrive - its not possible to reserve a room before arriving. You can arrive a few days before and book it

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