SPAO: Photographic Arts Centre

SPAO houses the only two-year photographic arts college diploma program in all of Canada.

The Photographic Arts and Production College Diploma Program is an incredibly unique opportunity to acquire comprehensive analogue and digital photography skills, develop a broad understanding of photographic theory and history, and cultivate individual vision and craft. 

The Photographic Arts and Production College Diploma Program is an intensive, hands-on, community-oriented, and collaborative learning experience. Small class sizes mean students get ample one-on-one attention and a personalized learning experience. SPAO has one of the most well-appointed darkrooms in the region, providing students with access to rare equipment, specialized techniques, and a full understanding of photographic processes.  

Educated and evaluated in large part through their performance, students develop a critical approach to their portfolios and create signature pieces for exhibition in The SPAO Centre Gallery, paving the way for career goals.

Integrated learning topics include photographic theory, photographic history and ideas, studio and lighting techniques, printmaking techniques, digital techniques, and portfolio design and production. Students learn through lectures and practicums, critiques and advisory sessions, and regular engagements with professional photographers, curators, gallerists, academics, and critics. Graduates of the program emerge prepared for a specialized career in the photographic arts. 

SPAO's Photographic Arts and Production College Diploma Program is approved as a vocational program under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005.