University Diploma - Fine Arts at KPU - Kwantlen Polytechnic University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

The Diploma in Fine Arts at Kwantlen Polytechnic University is an undergraduate program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the basic skills of visual arts. This two-year program enables students to develop both intellectual and technical skills necessary to work effectively with a variety of media. Graduates will be well-prepared to pursue further studies, such as the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual Arts, or to transfer to other post-secondary institutions. The program is open for intake in Fall (September), Spring (January), and Summer (May), making it accessible for students at different times of the year.

Program structure

The Diploma in Fine Arts program is structured to be completed in a two-year timeframe, allowing students to accumulate a total of 60 credits. The program can be pursued on a full-time or part-time basis, providing flexibility for students. Key features of the program structure include:

Completion of 6 credits in Art History (ARTH)
48 credits in Fine Arts (FINA)
6 additional academic credits

Students are encouraged to specialize in various areas such as ceramics, painting, drawing, photography, print media, sculpture, and digital media. The program also allows for selected courses to be applied towards a third-year entry into the KPU BFA, Visual Arts program or for university transfer credit in Fine Arts and Education.

Featured Experiences

The Diploma in Fine Arts program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey for students:

Hands-on training with a wide range of media, fostering creativity and technical skills.
Opportunities for specialization in various artistic disciplines.
Access to experienced faculty who provide guidance and mentorship.
Potential for collaboration with other students and departments, enriching the educational experience.
Preparation for further studies in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program.

Career Options

Graduates of the Diploma in Fine Arts program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Visual Artist: Create original works of art for exhibitions, galleries, and private collections.
Art Educator: Teach art in schools or community programs, sharing knowledge and skills with students.
Graphic Designer: Design visual content for print and digital media, including advertisements, websites, and branding.
Art Curator: Manage and organize art exhibitions in galleries or museums, selecting works and creating displays.
Illustrator: Produce illustrations for books, magazines, and other publications, bringing stories and concepts to life visually.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit KPU - Kwantlen Polytechnic University official website

Last updated on 2025-08-07

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Diploma in Fine Arts program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University has specific academic requirements that prospective students must meet. Here are the key points to consider:

The program does not specify a minimum GPA requirement.
For international students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to meet KPU's undergraduate English Proficiency Requirement.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Students must complete a total of 60 credits to earn the diploma, which can be accumulated on a full or part-time basis.
Curricular requirements include:
- 6 credits of Art History (ARTH)
- 48 credits of Fine Arts (FINA)
- 6 additional academic credits
It is strongly recommended that students take ENGL 1100 as it is a required prerequisite to some FINA and/or ARTH courses.

For any clarification or support regarding the application process, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors. They are here to help you navigate through your academic journey!

Language Requirements

To apply for the University Diploma in Fine Arts at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following accepted tests:

Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Score of 70 or higher with no sub score less than 60, taken within the last two years from the term of admission.
Duolingo English Test: Score of 110 or higher, taken within the last two years from the term of admission.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Test: overall band of 6.5 or higher, with a minimum 6.0 in each band, taken within the last two years from the term of admission.
Pearson Test of English (PTE): Score of 61 or higher, taken within the last two years from the term of admission.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): iBT 88 or higher, with no sub score less than 20, taken within the last two years from the term of admission.
Accuplacer: Reading score of 260, Writing score of 250 and WritePlacer Essay score of 6, or higher, taken within the last 2 years from the term of admission.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!