Carleton University | School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC)
Carleton University’s School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC) is a vibrant academic hub dedicated to exploring the dynamic intersections of art, culture, and society through the programs of Art History, Film Studies, Music, Curatorial Studies. Located in Ottawa, Canada, SSAC offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the visual, auditory, and performative dimensions of human expression. With a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and cultural engagement, the school provides students with the tools to analyze and contribute to the ever-evolving world of art and culture.
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Overview of the School for Studies in Art and Culture
The School for Studies in Art and Culture at Carleton University is a cornerstone of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, renowned for its innovative programs and research initiatives. SSAC brings together four distinct yet interconnected disciplines: Art History, Film Studies, Music, and Curatorial Studies. This unique structure allows students to engage with a broad spectrum of cultural practices while developing specialized expertise in their chosen field.
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The school is committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to explore the historical, theoretical, and practical dimensions of art and culture. Through a combination of rigorous academic training and hands-on experiences, SSAC prepares graduates for diverse careers in the arts, academia, cultural institutions, and beyond.
Academic Programs
SSAC offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to cater to diverse interests and career aspirations. Each program is tailored to provide students with a deep understanding of their chosen discipline while encouraging interdisciplinary exploration.
- Art History: This program delves into the history of visual arts, from ancient to contemporary periods, examining the social, political, and cultural contexts that shape artistic production. Students gain critical skills in visual analysis, research, and interpretation.
- Film Studies: Focusing on the history, theory, and aesthetics of cinema, this program explores film as a powerful medium of cultural expression. Students analyze films from around the world, studying their artistic, social, and political significance.
- Music: The music program emphasizes both theoretical and practical approaches to music, covering areas such as composition, performance, and musicology. Students engage with diverse musical traditions and develop a nuanced understanding of music’s role in society.
- Curatorial Studies: This interdisciplinary program trains students in the theory and practice of curating, preparing them for careers in museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. Students learn to conceptualize and organize exhibitions, working with a variety of artistic media.
In addition to these core programs, SSAC offers combined honors options, allowing students to pair their studies with other disciplines such as Anthropology, English, or History. Graduate programs, including MA and PhD options, provide advanced training for those pursuing academic or professional careers in the arts.
Research and Innovation
SSAC is a leader in research and innovation, with faculty and students actively contributing to the advancement of knowledge in art and culture. The school supports a wide range of research projects, from traditional scholarly work to creative and experimental endeavors.
Research areas include:
- The role of art in social and political movements
- The impact of digital technologies on cultural production
- The preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage
- The intersection of music, sound, and identity
The school also hosts conferences, workshops, and public lectures, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among scholars, artists, and the broader community.
Facilities and Resources
SSAC students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their academic and creative pursuits. These include:
- The Carleton University Art Gallery (CUAG): A hub for contemporary art exhibitions and curatorial projects, offering students hands-on experience in gallery management and exhibition design.
- Film Studies Screening Room: A dedicated space for film screenings and discussions, equipped with advanced audiovisual technology.
- Music Practice Rooms and Studios: Fully equipped spaces for music rehearsal, composition, and recording.
- Research Libraries and Archives: Extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources related to art, film, music, and curatorial studies.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
SSAC is deeply committed to community engagement, fostering connections between the university and the wider cultural sector. The school collaborates with local and international museums, galleries, film festivals, and music organizations to provide students with real-world experiences and networking opportunities.
Partnerships with institutions such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Ottawa International Animation Festival enable students to participate in internships, co-op placements, and collaborative projects.
Student Life and Opportunities
Students at SSAC benefit from a vibrant and supportive community, with numerous opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities and professional development. The school hosts student-run clubs, such as the Art History Association and the Carleton Film Society, which organize events, screenings, and exhibitions.
SSAC also offers study abroad programs, allowing students to gain international perspectives on art and culture. Scholarships and awards are available to recognize academic excellence and support students in their educational journey.
Faculty Expertise
The faculty at SSAC comprises accomplished scholars, artists, and practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. Their expertise spans a wide range of topics, including contemporary art, global cinema, musicology, and curatorial practice. Faculty members are actively involved in research, publication, and creative projects, contributing to the school’s reputation as a leader in the field.
Alumni Success
Graduates of SSAC have gone on to achieve success in a variety of fields, including academia, arts administration, film production, music performance, and museum curation. The school’s alumni network is a testament to the quality of its programs and the impact of its graduates on the cultural landscape.
Why Choose SSAC?
Choosing the School for Studies in Art and Culture at Carleton University means joining a community that values creativity, critical inquiry, and cultural engagement. With its interdisciplinary approach, world-class faculty, and extensive resources, SSAC offers an unparalleled educational experience for students passionate about art and culture.
Whether you aspire to become a curator, filmmaker, musicologist, or art historian, SSAC provides the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to turn your passion into a meaningful career.
By fostering a deep understanding of the arts and their role in society, SSAC empowers students to make a lasting impact on the cultural world.
Academic Programs Offered at Carleton University | School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC)
The School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC) at Carleton University offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to provide students with a deep understanding of art, culture, and their societal impacts. These programs are structured to combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for careers in the arts, academia, and cultural industries. Below is a detailed outline of the programs offered, categorized by discipline.
Art History Programs
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Description: This program explores the history of visual arts from ancient to contemporary periods, examining the social, political, and cultural contexts that shape artistic production. Students develop critical skills in visual analysis, research, and interpretation.
Key Features:
- Courses cover a wide range of topics, including Renaissance art, modern and contemporary art, Indigenous art, and global art histories.
- Opportunities for hands-on learning through internships at museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.
- Emphasis on developing writing and presentation skills for academic and professional contexts.
Master of Arts (MA) in Art History
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Description: This graduate program provides advanced training in art historical research and theory. Students engage in specialized studies and complete a thesis or major research project.
Key Features:
- Focus on interdisciplinary approaches to art history, including digital humanities and curatorial studies.
- Access to Carleton University Art Gallery (CUAG) and other cultural resources for research and practical experience.
- Opportunities to present research at conferences and publish in academic journals.
Film Studies Programs
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Film Studies
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Description: This program examines the history, theory, and aesthetics of cinema, exploring film as a powerful medium of cultural expression. Students analyze films from around the world, studying their artistic, social, and political significance.
Key Features:
- Courses cover topics such as film theory, national cinemas, documentary film, and digital media.
- Access to a dedicated film screening room and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment.
- Opportunities to participate in film festivals, internships, and collaborative projects.
Master of Arts (MA) in Film Studies
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Description: This graduate program offers advanced study in film theory, history, and criticism. Students conduct original research and complete a thesis or major research project.
Key Features:
- Focus on interdisciplinary approaches, including film and media studies, cultural studies, and digital humanities.
- Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects and publications.
- Access to extensive film archives and resources for research.
Music Programs
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Description: This program emphasizes both theoretical and practical approaches to music, covering areas such as composition, performance, and musicology. Students engage with diverse musical traditions and develop a nuanced understanding of music’s role in society.
Key Features:
- Courses include music theory, history, ethnomusicology, and performance studies.
- Access to music practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces.
- Opportunities to participate in ensembles, concerts, and community outreach programs.
Master of Arts (MA) in Music and Culture
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Description: This graduate program focuses on the study of music within its cultural and historical contexts. Students conduct original research and complete a thesis or major research project.
Key Features:
- Emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, including musicology, ethnomusicology, and sound studies.
- Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research and creative projects.
- Access to Carleton’s music archives and digital resources.
Curatorial Studies Programs
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Curatorial Studies
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Description: This interdisciplinary program trains students in the theory and practice of curating, preparing them for careers in museums, galleries, and other cultural institutions. Students learn to conceptualize and organize exhibitions, working with a variety of artistic media.
Key Features:
- Courses cover curatorial theory, exhibition design, art criticism, and museum studies.
- Hands-on experience through internships and collaborations with Carleton University Art Gallery (CUAG).
- Opportunities to curate student exhibitions and participate in public programming.
Master of Arts (MA) in Curatorial Studies
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Description: This graduate program provides advanced training in curatorial practice and theory. Students engage in original research and complete a thesis or major curatorial project.
Key Features:
- Focus on contemporary curatorial practices, including digital curation and community engagement.
- Opportunities to collaborate with faculty and cultural institutions on curatorial projects.
- Access to Carleton’s art collections and exhibition spaces for research and practice.
Combined Honors Programs
SSAC offers combined honors options, allowing students to pair their studies in Art History, Film Studies, Music, or Curatorial Studies with another discipline. These programs provide a broader academic foundation and enhance career prospects.
Examples of Combined Honors Programs:
- Art History and Anthropology
- Film Studies and English
- Music and History
- Curatorial Studies and Sociology
Duration: 4 years (full-time)
Description: Combined honors programs enable students to explore interdisciplinary connections and develop a diverse skill set. Students complete requirements for both disciplines, culminating in a thesis or major project.
Graduate Diplomas and Certificates
SSAC also offers graduate diplomas and certificates for students seeking specialized training without committing to a full degree program.
Graduate Diploma in Curatorial Studies
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Description: This program provides focused training in curatorial practice, preparing students for careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.
Graduate Certificate in Digital Humanities
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Description: This program explores the intersection of digital technologies and cultural studies, equipping students with skills in digital curation, data analysis, and digital storytelling.
Contact Information for Carleton University | School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC)
Contact Information
Address:
School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC)
Carleton University
1125 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6
Canada
Phone:
+1 (613) 520-2600
Email:
General Inquiries: ssac@carleton.ca
Undergraduate Program Inquiries: ssac.undergrad@carleton.ca
Graduate Program Inquiries: ssac.grad@carleton.ca
Website:
https://carleton.ca/ssac/
Social Media Accounts:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Carleton_SSAC
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarletonSSAC
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carleton_ssac/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/carleton-university/
Carleton University | School for Studies in Art and Culture (SSAC)
