BestUniversitiesCanada

6 Best Arts, Design & Architecture PhD Universities in Canada

Ranked by our transparent composite score, with QS rankings, tuition fees and entry requirements.

6 universities · ranked best first

how we rank
1
UW University of Windsor logo

University of Windsor

Windsor, Ontario · Public University

★ 52 QS World #701 Star rating 4 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 26,000 – CAD 40,000/yr
Founded
1857
2
NS NSCAD University logo

NSCAD University

Halifax, Nova Scotia · Public University

★ 51 Star rating 4 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 22,000 – CAD 30,000/yr
Founded
1887
3
TR Thompson Rivers University logo

Thompson Rivers University

Kamloops, British Columbia · Public University

★ 49 Star rating 3 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 20,000 – CAD 30,000/yr
Founded
1970
4
CA Carleton University logo

Carleton University

Ottawa, Ontario · Public University

★ 46 QS World #651 Star rating 4 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 29,000 – CAD 44,000/yr
Founded
1942
5
BR Brandon University logo

Brandon University

Brandon, Manitoba · Public University

★ 42 Star rating 3 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 16,000 – CAD 24,000/yr
Founded
1899
6
UW University of Winnipeg logo

University of Winnipeg

Winnipeg, Manitoba · Public University

★ 41 Star rating 3 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 16,000 – CAD 26,000/yr
Founded
1967

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best universities in Canada for PhD Arts, Design & Architecture?

Based on our composite ranking, the top choices include University of Windsor, NSCAD University, Thompson Rivers University. See the full ranked list above with QS positions, tuition fees and entry requirements.

How much does a PhD in Arts, Design & Architecture cost in Canada?

Tuition varies by university and is indicative on each profile — public universities are generally the most affordable, while private and international branch campuses charge more. Scholarships can reduce costs significantly.

Can international students study Arts, Design & Architecture in Canada?

Yes. Most programmes are taught in English and open to international students, who apply for a study permit through IRCC after accepting an offer.

How are these universities ranked?

We use a transparent composite score combining QS World/Asia positions, Canada’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — never paid placement. See our ranking methodology for the exact weights.

Studying Arts, Design & Architecture at PhD level in Canada

Canada is a popular, affordable destination for Arts, Design & Architecture at PhD level, with provincially accredited programmes taught in English at both public and private universities, plus international branch campuses. The universities above are ordered by our composite ranking score, which combines QS World and QS Americas positions, Canada’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — with no paid placement.

Get Canada university & scholarship updates

New scholarships, application deadlines and admission guides — a couple of emails a month, no spam.