The School for the Contemporary Arts at Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Vancouver offers a transformative experience for artists seeking to enhance their practice. With access to internationally-recognized faculty and cutting-edge facilities in downtown Vancouver, the MFA and MA programs provide a unique opportunity for growth and exploration in the arts.
The interdisciplinary approach at SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts sets it apart from other institutions. The MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts, MA in Contemporary Arts, and PhD in Contemporary Arts programs bring together artists and scholars from a variety of disciplines including Dance, Film, Music & Sound, Theatre & Performance, Performance Production & Design, and Visual Art. This diverse faculty fosters a dynamic environment for creative collaboration and experimentation.
Students in the MFA program engage in a two-year journey of dialogue, theory, and creative exploration. The program encourages interdisciplinary practices and provides ample opportunities for studio work, seminars, exhibitions, performances, and public gatherings. On the other hand, the MA program offers a unique blend of theoretical and historical approaches from art history, cinema studies, performance studies, and digital arts, combined with practical applications.
For those interested in pursuing a research-intensive path, the PhD program at SFU focuses on interdisciplinary approaches to the fine and performing arts. This program supports both scholarly and practice-based research, providing a platform for in-depth exploration and innovation.
Applications for the MFA and MA programs are currently being accepted until February 15, 2026. For those interested in the PhD program, applications will open again on October 1, 2026, for a Fall 2027 intake. One notable aspect of SFU’s program is the offering of domestic tuition rates for international students, making it an accessible option for artists from around the world.
To learn more about SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts and to apply, visit sfu.ca/sca. For any questions or inquiries, feel free to contact the Graduate Program Coordinator at sca_gpa@sfu.ca. Join us in Vancouver and embark on a journey of artistic exploration and growth at SFU’s School for the Contemporary Arts.
