Advanced College Diploma - Visual And Creative Arts - Advanced (PCVAD) at Sheridan College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-04-01

Program overview

Program Overview

Get the studio training and skills you need to go into business as a professional artist, designer, or creative entrepreneur in three years. The Advanced College Diploma in Visual and Creative Arts at Sheridan College is designed to help you define yourself as an artist and launch your career in art and design. With a focus on building a broad base of artistic techniques in a studio setting, you will receive guidance from a faculty of professional artists who will help you hone your artistic voice and develop a mature body of work.

Program Structure

The Advanced College Diploma in Visual and Creative Arts is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a three-year period. The program includes:

Rigorous in-studio training in various artistic techniques.
Specialty arts electives to enhance your skills and knowledge.
A unique third-year Professional Practice course focused on turning your artistic practice into a viable career.
Opportunities to learn about applying for artist residencies, grants, and exhibitions.
Access to world-class facilities and a vibrant creative community.

This program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also sets the stage for further studies in a degree program of your choice.

Featured Experiences

The Visual and Creative Arts program offers several unique experiences that enhance your learning:

Hands-on studio training with professional artists.
Opportunities to participate in exhibitions and design competitions.
Guest lectures from industry professionals.
Access to a creative community located between major art hubs, Toronto and Hamilton.
Portfolio development to showcase your work effectively.

Career Options

Graduates of the Advanced College Diploma in Visual and Creative Arts can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Fine Artist: Create original works of art for galleries, exhibitions, and private collectors.
Freelance Designer: Work independently on projects for clients in various industries, including graphic design and product design.
Illustrator: Produce illustrations for books, magazines, and digital media.
Photographer's Assistant: Support professional photographers in capturing images for various projects.
Gallery Operator: Manage art galleries, including curating exhibitions and handling sales.

With the skills and knowledge gained from this program, graduates are well-equipped to enter the creative workforce or continue their education in related fields.

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

Visit Sheridan College official website

Last updated on 2026-04-01

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Advanced College Diploma in Visual and Creative Arts at Sheridan has specific academic requirements for prospective students. To be eligible for this program, applicants must possess an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent qualification. This includes the completion of the following prerequisite course:

One English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or ENG4U)

Alternatively, applicants may qualify through mature student status.

In terms of selection, eligible applicants are chosen based on their previous academic achievements, specifically the average of their six highest senior-level credits, which must include the required courses.

For international students, it is essential to note that all applicants whose first language is not English must meet Sheridan’s English proficiency requirements. This is particularly relevant for students from Vietnam and other Asian countries, as they may have specific guidelines to follow. For any clarifications or support regarding these requirements, we encourage you to reach out to LOA Portal's advisors.

Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Language Requirements

All applicants to Sheridan must demonstrate English-language proficiency. The following English-language proficiency tests are accepted for the Advanced College Diploma - Visual And Creative Arts - Advanced (PCVAD) program:

Sheridan’s EAP program:
- A minimum score of 70% in listening and speaking and 70% in reading and writing.
Sheridan EPA test (English Proficiency Assessment):
- Listening Band – 4.0
- Reading Combined Band – 4.0
- Writing – CLB 7
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language):
- Overall score 60 with no individual section below 50.
Cambridge English Test Exams (B2 First/C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency score):
- Overall Cambridge English Scale score 169 with no individual score below 162.
Duolingo English Language Test:
- Overall score of 105 with no integrated subscore lower than 85.
IELTS Academic Level:
- Overall score 6.0 with no individual band below 5.5.
iTEP Academic-Plus:
- Overall score 3.7.
LanguageCert Academic:
- Overall score 65 with no individual skill score below 60.
PTE Academic:
- Overall score 58 with no individual section below 49.
TOEFL iBT:
- Overall score 80 with no individual section below 20.

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!