Get an Art History Major without a Portfolio
Nova Scotia College of Art and Design // January 25, 2012
NSCAD is making it easier to study art history at the place where history is made.
NSCAD is the only university in Nova Scotia which offers students a major in art history. However, like all students at NSCAD, art history majors enter NSCAD through the Foundation program in their first year, a program which combines academic and studio-based courses. Completing a portfolio is a key element of the Foundation application process.
But now NSCAD will accept students by another entry route. Students can be accepted to the BA program, Major in Art History, after completing at least one year of study in the social sciences or humanities at another university or college. The change, two years in the making, was instigated by student demand. It was recently approved by the Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission.
“Students were frustrated with the entry process because they couldn’t get in without a portfolio,” says Laurelle LeVert, registrar and director of student services. “The change helps those who are interested in history but may not have the artistic inclination to complete a portfolio or even want to take studio classes.”
For students who are interested in art history, NSCAD is definitely the place to be, says Sandra Alfoldy, chair of the Historical and Critical Studies Division.
“We are totally keyed up about this,” says Prof. Alfoldy. “There really is so much offered that students can specialize in areas that are meaningful and unique to them.” As well, she expects students who have studied anthropology, philosophy or economics—just to provide a few examples—will add complexity and depth to classroom debate.
Applications to Bachelor of Arts Major in Art History are now being accepted. The application deadline is March 1. Admission requirements are outlined on the NSCAD website at: http://nscad.ca/en/home/admissions/undergraduate/arthistory.aspx
