The Yukon School of Visual Arts (YSOVA) offers a rigorous eight-month Foundation Year Program in Dawson City, Yukon. This program is accredited at Yukon University and is equivalent to the first year of an arts degree, offering students a comprehensive introduction to visual arts. With world-renowned faculty, small class sizes, and custom studio spaces, students explore a wide range of disciplines including painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, video, sculpture, and performance. The program also emphasizes understanding critical theories, histories, and contexts of contemporary arts, integrating studio practice with academic studies, including English courses tailored to visual arts. Students benefit from field trips to heritage sites, visiting artists, and a vibrant arts community, all within the unique cultural setting of Dawson City, situated within the Traditional Territory of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in.
Why this course is highly recommended
This program is an excellent choice for students seeking a solid foundation in visual arts, especially those interested in starting their art education close to nature and within a vibrant arts community. Its accreditation, small class environment, and world-class faculty make it an ideal entry point for aspiring artists or those wanting to begin working independently in art. Additionally, students have the opportunity to transfer to various Canadian universities for further studies, making it flexible as a first step in their arts education.
The program covers a broad spectrum of disciplines such as painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, video, sculpture, installation, and performance. It emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore multiple mediums and techniques while making critical connections between art practice, history, theory, and community context, specifically within Dawson City.
Application fees
7.41L
1st year tuition fees
7.41L
Living cost
The Foundation Year Program at YSOVA is accredited at Yukon University and is equivalent to the first year of an arts degree. After completing this program, students can pursue their Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) at YSOVA-affiliated art schools across Canada, including OCAD University, NSCAD University, Alberta University of Art + Design, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, the University of Ottawa, and Mount Allison University.

English language test
Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria,
and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Yukon University admission page
for complete details.
Graduates of this program can continue their studies at various Canadian institutions, which may lead to careers as professional artists, art educators, curators, or arts administrators. The broad range of disciplines and critical understanding fostered by the program also prepares students for careers in contemporary arts practice, community arts projects, and arts-related fields.