Frequently Asked Questions

Question Answer
a. How do I apply for Music? https://ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
Am I on track to graduate? How do I make an Advising Appointment? Would you like help evaluating your degree progress report? The Office of Advising and Integrated Student Services (OAISS) is your destination for undergraduate advising with personalized guidance around your degree requirements as well as resources, workshops and information to support you throughout your degree. To book an advising or petition advising appointment, please visit OAISS at 322 CFA or call (416) 736-5135 between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm. Please make sure you speak directly with the receptionist to book your appointment. OAISS is unable to book appointment requests left in voicemail.
Any advice for a successful portfolio? Show only work which reflects your strengths – both creative and technical. After you upload your portfolio files, add a title to each piece. This will help the reviewer in understanding your portfolio work. Please limit your titles to a maximum of thirty (30) characters.
Are there specific clubs for AMPD students? Yes, Winters College has clubs specifically for AMPD students while York University has clubs open to all students. View them here.
b. When is the application deadline? https://ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
c. What happens after I apply to Music? Music applicants are admitted based on GPA and audition. Once you have applied to York’s music program you will be invited to complete a supplementary application which allows you to tell us more about your musical interests, training, and aspirations.  When your supplementary application is completed you may book your on-campus audition which will consist of a 20-minute audition/interview with a faculty member. If you live more than 300 km away and are unable to come to York University, or if you are otherwise unable to attend a live audition, you may submit your audition performance videos online as part of your supplementary application. If we require more information we may contact you to arrange a brief Zoom interview.   Have questions about the supplementary application for this program? Ask us at evalampd@yorku.ca.
Can I apply to more than one of the programs in AMPD? Yes. You can apply to as many programs as you want. You will need to complete and pay for each audition/interview/portfolio review for as many programs who require them.
Can I skip Music levels and take private lessons without the prerequisites? Students must ask area coordinators for permission to do so.
Can I switch programs within AMPD after I accept an admissions offer? Upon successful admittance to AMPD, students may apply for a program change request to a different program at York. Students will need to complete the admission process for that program and are not guaranteed acceptance.
Can I take a tour of your facilities? Tours take place regularly throughout the year. Tour dates will be added as they become available. You can view available tour times and book your tour at: ampd.yorku.ca/take-a-tour.
Can I take more than 30 credits a year? If so, how? Students must submit an academic petition to take a course overload. This petition is submitted to the OAISS for review.   For more information about petitions visit: https://myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/academic-petitions
d. How do I book my audition? Once you have applied to the music program you will be emailed details about accessing the website. On the website, you will complete the supplementary evaluation questionnaire and then be able to book your on-campus evaluation appointment or submit your materials online.
Do all applicants receive a portfolio review? Yes. We ask all applicants to submit their work through the online portfolio system for review.
Do all production students get to make films? Answer Yes, they are required to. Screenwriting students will also make films in their first year.
Do I have to complete an audition/interview/portfolio review? Not every AMPD program requires an audition/interview/portfolio review. The programs that require an audition/interview/portfolio review are Design, Dance, Cinema Production, Cinema Screenwriting, Media Arts, Music, Theatre and Visual Arts – Studio.
Do I have to take private lessons on campus or can I take lessons with an instructor I wish, outside of campus, to fulfill that requirement? Only private lessons taken from the Department of Music at York can fulfill private lesson requirements.
Does the Department of Music provide students with instruments? No, we do not. Other than pianos and drums that can be used in the practice rooms, students must bring in their own instruments.
e. Are there online auditions? Yes. As described above, if you live more than 300 km away and are unable to come to York University, or if you are otherwise unable to attend a live audition, you may submit your audition performance videos online as part of your supplementary application. If we require more information we may contact you to arrange a brief Zoom interview. Interviews for those applying to Digital/Electronic Music will take place online (see further instructions below) Have questions about the supplementary application for this program? Ask us at evalampd@yorku.ca.
f. Do I need to audition if I want to take music as a minor? Yes, you must audition.
For my Design portfolio can I use work I have submitted as projects or on other applications? Typically, the applicant selects their pieces to show in their portfolio from school assigned projects, personal interest projects (e.g. a book cover you designed on your own for your favourite novel), ideas (sketchbook, concept/idea book, etc.), development/variations of ideas (design process documentation), extra curricular art/design classes and professional work where appropriate.
g. Do I need to audition if I’m doing a program change into Music? Yes, you must audition.
h. What if I canʼt find a suitable time in the online scheduling for my Music audition? Please email musicprg@yorku.ca and/or call the Music Office at 416-736-5186 and we will try to accommodate you by arranging a substitute audition time.
How are the Dance auditions structured? The York U Dance Auditions take place throughout a full morning and are normally made up a few different activities. There is a welcome reception for students and parents, a warmup session for the auditioning students, an observation class or demonstration (where prospective students can watch current students dance), the audition class (all the students auditioning that day participate in a class as a group for a number of faculty assessors), and then a Q&A session. Auditioning students do not need to prepare solos or anything in advance, they are simply asked to participate in the various activities and styles during the class.
How can AMPD help me virtually connect to other students? AMPD and Winters College connect students through club events and mentorship programs taking place both in-person and online. Visit winters.ampd.yorku.ca for more information.  
How can I find out about ways to get involved in student clubs and organizations? http://studentclubs.scld.yorku.ca/
How can I find out about whats happening in AMPD? For a full list of AMPD events visit https://ampd.yorku.ca/news-events/events/
How can I find out about Winters College Council? http://winters.yorku.ca/winters-college-student-council
How can I get free online academic writing support? http://www.yorku.ca/spark
How can I see if I have been accepted to my program? Students can check the status of their application anytime at yorku.ca/myfile. Students who applied through OUAC can also check their status through their account at ouac.on.ca.
How can I travel safely on campus at night? GoSafe and Security Services staff will walk students to and from any campus location: http://gosafe.info.yorku.ca Look for any Blue Light Emergency Phone, on campus pay phone (Free), go SAFE button on any campus safety phone
How do I accept my offer? Login to MyFile
How do I add a course that is restricted or reserved? Undergraduate students can request enrolment into a course that requires departmental permission by completing the MachForm at ampd.yorku.ca/permission  This form may be used up until  the last date to add a course without permission (refer to registrar.yorku.ca/enrol/dates under Add/Drop Deadlines to find the dates for the current academic term).  After such time, students need permission of the instructor to add a course. AMPD Departments handle these permissions differently and it is best to ask the Department for advice or to get copies of the required paperwork (if by voicemail or email, always include your full name, student number, the course code and instructors name)
How do I add a Minor in Dance to my degree? If your degree allows options for a minor, you're welcome to add a Dance Minor to your current degree program. There is no audition process for the Minor, so you can simply request a program change on the Registrar's Office website: http://myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/program-change More information about Double Major and Minor combinations across York University can be found at https://futurestudents.yorku.ca/majors-minors
How do I apply for Art History? https://vaah.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/how-to-apply-ba/
How do I apply for Cinema & Media Studies? https://cma.ampd.yorku.ca/how-to-apply/ba-cinema-and-media-studies-how-to-apply/
How do I apply for Dance? https://dance.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
How do I apply for Design? https://design.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
How do I apply for Film Production? https://cma.ampd.yorku.ca/how-to-apply/bfa-production-how-to-apply/
How do I apply for Independent Studies in Visual Arts & Art History? Independent Studies In Visual Arts & Art History designed so that students may pursue an intensive independent project under the supervision of a Visual Art & Art History faculty member on topics that are not generally available in the standard department curriculum. No more than one Independent Studies course may be taken in any given year. Applicable supplementary fees are charged for Independent Studies courses in studio areas where such fees are required. Prerequisite/Restrictions
    1. Independent Studies applicants must be in their final year of study
    2. Independent Studies applicants must have successfully completed a 4000-level course in the requested area of study e.g., painting, sculpture, 20th century art, Renaissance, etc.
    3. Students can only take 6.0 credits in Independent Studies in a single academic session.
To apply for an Independent Study there is a form available at the Department of Visual Arts & Art History reception area which you will need to fill out and have the professor sign.
How do I apply for Media Arts? https://cma.ampd.yorku.ca/how-to-apply/bfa-in-media-arts-how-to-apply/
How do I apply for Screenwriting? https://cma.ampd.yorku.ca/how-to-apply/bfa-screenwriting-how-to-apply/
How do I apply for Theatre? https://theatre.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
How do I apply for Visual Art – Studio? https://vaah.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/how-to-apply-bfa/
How do I apply? Applications can be made to the Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC) www.ouac.on.ca. Check out this page for more details: https://ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
How do I book my on-campus audition/interview/portfolio review? Once you have submitted your questionnaire and paid your evaluation fee, you will be able to book your on-campus audition/interview/portfolio review. All dates that are currently available will be shown on your account. Most on-campus evaluations take place in February and March.
How do I choose a Digital Media stream?
  • Answer Students will choose a stream in their second year using the Program Change Request online form: myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/program-change This cannot be done in first year. Choose one of Digital Media Arts, Digital Media Development or Digital Media Game Arts. For basic information about the streams visit: computationalarts.ampd.yorku.ca/apply For in depth information about the streams visitalendars.students.yorku.ca/
    • Search Digital Media, (open the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design version)
    • Click the Degree Requirements button
    • Select the Program Specific Degree Requirements section
How do I complete my audition/interview/portfolio review?
Once you have applied to a program that requires an audition/interview/portfolio review, you will be emailed with instructions on how to register your unique account to complete the process, this can take 5-10 business days to arrive. Once you have registered your account, you can complete your evaluation at your own pace and book your on-campus appointment or upload your materials online.
How do I find a quiet study spot on campus? http://vpfa.info.yorku.ca/files/2013/10/131017-Student-Space-for-Casual-Use.pdf
How do I find out about food options on campus? https://foodservices.info.yorku.ca/ Food Bank, Food4Thought http://yfs.ca/yfs-food-services YorkU Farmers Market http://foodservices.info.yorku.ca/yum-farmers-market/  
How do I find out about support for international students? http://yorkinternational.yorku.ca Look for AMPD World Café and AMPD World Cabaret events for fun ways to meet your fellow AMPD and Winters College students
How do I find out about the Degree Requirements for my Program? Degree requirements are found in the Undergraduate Calendar at http://calendars.registrar.yorku.ca/ You must fulfill the degree requirements for the year that you entered your current program. For example, if you entered the School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design (AMPD) in 2018 as a Film BFA student, but in 2019 became a Film BA student, you will look for the Film BA degree requirements Degree requirements for 2019. The Office of Advising and Integrated Student Services (OAISS) offers personalized 1:1 undergraduate advising. To book an advising or petition advising appointment, please visit OAISS at 322 CFA or call 416-736-5135 between 10:00am and 3:00pm.
Booking Appointment
Please make sure you speak directly with the receptionist to book your appointment. We are unable to book appointment requests left in voice mail.
How do I find out about tutoring and study groups? http://studyhub.info.yorku.ca
How do I find out about Winters College? http://winters.yorku.ca
How do I get a parking permit? http://www.yorku.ca/parking/permits.html
How do I get in touch with my Professor? You can find your professor’s email address by looking them up in the York Atlas or your course syllabus. You can also contact your professor to find out what their office hours are to talk in person.
How do I get to and from campus without a car http://transportation.info.yorku.ca
How do I pay my student account? http://sfs.yorku.ca/fees/paying
How do I submit my supplementary application? To begin and submit your supplementary application, please register at suppeval.ampd.yorku.ca. For detailed instructions, visit How to Apply – AMPD (yorku.ca)
How do the Film degrees differ? cma.ampd.yorku.ca/undergraduate/
How does parking work on campus? Please visit yorku.ca/parking for more information on parking on campus including lots, rates and passes.
How far is the campus from downtown Toronto? The York University subway station is located in the heart of campus and connects directly to downtown Toronto in a short 30min subway ride.
How is York different from other film schools? Our program is distinctive due to:
  • The extent and variety of our curricular offerings, the combination of writing, theory and practice refined over the 50 years of our existence and constantly kept abreast of the changes brought to the field by new technologies
  • A tightly knit community based on experiential group learning and mentorship which is made of the extraordinary talent, inventiveness and commitment of our students
  • The rich knowledge base of our faculty, who are practicing award-winning filmmakers and prominent film scholars
  • Cross-listed courses with other areas such as Production Design, as well as acting and directing that are offered in conjunction with the Department of Theatre
  • Field placements are available for both BFA & BA students in their senior years
How large are Film classes? Most of the classes offered in the Department of Cinema & Media Arts are small. Studio (production) courses range between about 15 to 25 students. Studies courses vary from very large courses with tutorials to small, intensely focused seminars in the upper years.
How many film productions are made in the program in a given year? Every year approximately 175 undergraduate student works are produced in our department.
How many pieces should I include in my portfolio? Include 8 portfolio pieces. Additionally, upload scanned or photos of 8 pages from your sketchbook as a single file.
How will my portfolio be evaluated? Your portfolio score is based upon a 100 point system as follows:
  1. Quality of the work: 60 points
  2. Ability to embrace process: 40 points
How will studying Film at York prepare me for a job?

BFA graduates are known and respected throughout the Canadian industry for their technical and creative proficiency. As active professional filmmakers and media creators, the faculty are involved in the industry, allowing us to bring that experience and understanding into the classroom. The size of the department, its extensive facilities, its broad curriculum, the scale of student productions and perhaps most of all the extraordinary talent and dedication of our student body, all combine to create an accelerated learning experience like no other. York is located in the heart of the GTA, one of Canada’s primary film centres, and our Department is actively involved in the Canadian film, television and media industries. Professionals from all sectors of the industry regularly make their way up to visit our students. Upper level students may participate in a summer internship program that gives them on-the-job experience. For a significant number of students, their internship has led directly to employment with prominent companies in the film and television industry. Every year the Toronto International Film Festival includes York talent, with features and short films produced by alumni, faculty and often also current students. A university is very different from a training program which focuses solely on technical instruction.

York faculty are not only active in the industry but have chosen to work within the university setting because we like to think about what we do. The university experience is about much more than finding a job. At the same time, we believe the all-around experience York offers makes our graduates employable in a wider range of positions. This is demonstrated by the successes of our alumni, who include not only prominent directors, cinematographers, producers and editors, but also industry executives, casting directors, special effects designers etc. Our BA/Cinema and Media Studies graduates have gone on to positions as film critics, publicists, curators, educators, film festival organizers, book and magazine editors, teachers and professors. They have found a variety of jobs in the cultural industries working for film production houses, museums and galleries, in the broadcasting sector (TVO, History Channel, VisionTV, CBC etc) and (in two recent cases) setting up their own publishing company devoted to independent cinema. Some of our students have received prestigious scholarships to go on to graduate school to train as cutting-edge media researchers and film scholars.

I am a York Student, how do I change my major or minor? If you are currently enrolled and registered as an undergraduate student and wish to request a transfer to a different academic program/degree, please review the information at: https://myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/program-change and submit your program change request via the following link: https://passportyork.yorku.ca/ppylogin/ppylogin. A number of AMPD programs require an audition/interview/portfolio review before you can be admitted. When you submit your program change request, you should also contact the Department office (if by voicemail or email, always include your full name, student number, the course code, and instructors name) Cinema & Media Arts (Film) CFT 221 or 416-736-5149 or cma@yorku.ca Computational Arts (Digital Media) GCFA 232 or 416-736-5187 or comparts@yorku.ca Dance ACE 301 or 416-736-5137 or dance@yorku.ca Music ACE 371 or 416-736-5186 or musicprg@yorku.ca Theatre CFT 322 or 416-736-5172 or theadept@yorku.ca Visual Art & Art History GCFA 235 or 416-736-5187 or vaah@yorku.ca   Please note: Design is unable to accommodate Internal York Transfer students for 2019/20 and 2020/21.
I can’t log into my audition/interview/portfolio review? If you have previously logged on successfully, please use the “reset my password” option on the website. If you haven’t ever logged on successfully please email evalampd@yorku.ca with your name and student number.
I disagree with my grade, what can I do? https://myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/grade-reappraisal-policy
I have completed previous education, will I receive transfer credits? Students who have completed previous college, university or IB credits could be eligible for transfer credits. After you apply, your transcripts will be evaluated and you will be notified of your transfer credits with your offer of admission. More information is available here: futurestudents.yorku.ca/transfer
I need an exception, what can I petition? https://myacademicrecord.students.yorku.ca/academic-petitions Examples of regulations you can apply to petition (note not all petitions are successful) Academic Standing Regulation Waived, Add Course(s) Past The Published Deadline(s), Course Overload, Deferred Standing, Degree Requirements Waived or Altered, Drop Course(s) From the Transcript, Exemption from the Deadline to Submit a Request for a Grade Reappraisal, Exemption from the Deadline to Submit a Petition for Deferred Standing, Re-entry to the Faculty of Education, Request for a Second Stop-Out Year in the Faculty of Education.  
I need more time, how can I request deferred standing? Occasionally, a student may become sick, have a personal/family emergency, or religious observance which requires them to ask for special consideration for an alternate date to write their final exam or submit their outstanding coursework beyond the last day of classes. Students in these situations may request deferred standing. You must formally request deferred standing. The deadline to submit the information listed below is no later than one week after the missed examination or the last day of classes. Most instructors will provide procedures and information about deferred standing in course outlines. Refer to those procedures for instructions specific to the course. To apply:
  1. Download and complete the Final Exam/Assignment Deferred Standing Agreement.
  2. Gather any relevant supporting documentation. Health issues will require an Attending Physician's Statement.
  3. Contact your instructor to review the form and receive approval for deferred standing. If the instructor does not approve the form, you may choose to submit an academic petition. Note that petitions may not be successful.
  4. Submit the signed, approved deferred standing form to the academic department which offers the course. Please ensure you keep a copy for yourself.
  5. Work towards completing the course work and/or writing the exam as per the agreed timeline on the signed form.
 
I need support applying for a student visa, can York help me? Yes, For all assistance about visas and permits, please get in touch with iadvisor@yorku.ca.
I want to take a course at another university, can it count towards my degree? https://registrar.yorku.ca/enrol/lop
I was granted permission for a class, why can’t I enroll? Top two reasons students can’t enroll even though they were granted permission:
  1. The class is full (often this relates to Fire Code Regulations). Keep trying to enroll because other students might drop the course.
  2. Outstanding fee (check your student account https://sfs.yorku.ca/fees/your-student-account)
i. Where will the Music auditions take place? All live auditions will take place in the Accolade East building at York University’s Keele Campus.  When you enter the Accolade East building, please take the elevator or stairs to the second floor where a registration desk will be located near room 210.  An excellent campus map may be found at https://www.yorku.ca/parking/wp-content/uploads/sites/51/2022/07/2D-KEELE_Map.pdf  The Accolade East building is number 92 on this map.
If I don’t see a club I’m interested in can I create my own? Yes, you can make a club through Student Community & Leadership Development and YU Connect. Visit yorku.ca/scld for more information.
If I’m a Cinema and Media Studies (BA) Major, can I take production courses? Production courses are reserved for Production students.
If I’m a Production (BFA) or Cinema and Media Studies (BA) Major, can I take screenwriting courses? All film students are eligible to take introductory screenwriting courses, and all production students are required to take screenwriting courses in first and second year. Admission to upper level screenwriting courses is extremely competitive and is based on submission of a writing portfolio.
If I’m a Screenwriting (BFA) Major, can I take production courses? Screenwriting students take the first year production course. Outside of class they are encouraged to work on the shoots of upper level production students to become more familiar with the production process.
Is it possible to see the film productions made by students? All student films are screened on campus during a two-week period in April at an event called The Finish Line. The screenings are free and open to the public. From these screenings, CMA faculty members select the strongest work produced in the department that year. A external jury of prominent figures in the film and television industries looks at the work, selects the best productions for a showcase screening, and designates awards. This special screening, titled CineSiege, takes place each year in October at the Hot Docs Bloor Cinema in downtown Toronto.
Is there a different supplementary application process for external transfer students? No. All applicants applying for the same program will complete the same application.
Is there a different supplementary application process for internal transfer students? No. All applicants applying for the same program will complete the same application.
Is there a different supplementary application process for international students? No. All applicants applying for the same program will complete the same application.
Is there a different supplementary application process for mature students? No. All applicants applying for the same program will complete the same applications.
Is there a focused stream in the music degree that I can take and graduate with? Students can choose to focus on composition, jazz, classical, or world music. However, the degree they graduate with will be a BA or BFA in Music.
Is there a preferred file format? Still image files may be sent in pdf, jpg, png, or gif formats. Each still image file should be no larger than 5 MB. Do not include more than one work per file. Videos will be accepted in mpg, mp4, mov, avi, wmv, m4v formats. Video files should be no longer than two minutes in length and the size of each video upload is limited to 60 MB. Please note that videos are considered part of your selection and should not be used as a method of showing examples of additional still images. It is recommended that the sketchbook be a multipage (8-10 pages) document (e.g. pdf)
Is there a specific residence for AMPD students? For more information on housing at York, visit www.yorku.ca/housing
I’m a student at York but not a music major. May I use the practice rooms? No, practice rooms are for music majors only, for liability issues.
j. How long before my audition should I check in? We recommend that you check in at the registration desk at least one hour prior to your audition time.  A warm-up room will be provided for you and, at the appropriate time, you will be escorted to the audition room.
k. Where do I check in on the day of my Music audition? A check-in table will be set up on the second floor of the Accolade East Building near room 210.
l. How long are the Music auditions? Your audition will take approximately 20-minutes.
m. What happens at the music interview/audition? Your audition will take approximately 20-minutes and will generally include: – A performance of your two contrasting pieces – A discussion of your musical knowledge as well as your goals and aspirations – An assessment of your theory and musicianship skills through the identifying of intervals, scales and  chord types, and you may be asked to sing pitches, intervals or scales – Sight reading and additional exercises if further information is needed to make a complete assessment of your abilities and potential Helpful information regarding choosing appropriate repertoire for your specific audition type may be found below in these FAQs.
My desired program does not require a supplementary application, can I still submit one? No. If you have not applied to a program requiring a supplementary application, you are not permitted to submit one.
n. What should I play in my Music Audition?
o. Do I need an accompanist? You may choose to have an accompanist if that helps show your abilities in their best light however, it is not required. Here is a list of recommended accompanists for hire.  Specific suggestions for jazz audition accompaniments are below.
p. If I audition for the jazz program what kind of accompaniment do I bring? We encourage you to bring an accompanist if you wish to do so but please do not use drums as part of your accompaniment for the audition. Please refer to the following “instrument – specific” accompaniment guidelines: Jazz vocalists should be accompanied by piano or guitar. Jazz guitarists and pianists may perform solo or be accompanied by bass. Jazz wind or string players may perform solo or be accompanied by piano or guitar and/or bass. Jazz bassists may perform solo or be accompanied by piano or guitar. Jazz drummers should perform solo, without accompaniment.
q. May I use a recorded accompaniment for my Music audition? Yes. (As mentioned above, Jazz drummers should perform solo, without accompaniment.) Here is a list of recommended accompanists for hire.
r. Will I be asked to perform anything for my Music audition other than my two contrasting pieces?
s. How should I prepare for an audition in Digital/Electronic Music? Please upload at least two examples of your digital music projects to the audition website along with your supplementary application. Your examples should be between 3 and 10 minutes in length. If you send a performance, submit the audio/video as indicated on the online form. You may include a brief (5 - 10 minute) video of yourself describing your production process using one of your projects as a sample. Interviews for this area will be conducted via Zoom. Please book an interview time using the online scheduling system once your supplementary application is complete.
t. Will I be asked to complete a separate theory test? Your interview will include some general theory questions. There will be no separate theory evaluation.
u. Is there a minimum piano proficiency requirement for all Music applicants? There is not. However, all of your musical training will be taken into consideration when assessing your application.
v. What if I want to audition on the same instrument for two different areas of the Music program such as Jazz and Classical? You may only audition in a single area but make your other abilities clear on your supplemental application. Music students can take courses from all the areas they are interested in, no matter what they auditioned for (though some courses require additional auditions).
w. What do I do if I want to audition for Music on two different instruments? You may only audition on a single instrument but be sure to include information regarding your skills and training on a second instrument on your supplemental application.
What am I required to submit for my supplementary application? Each program has different requirements for supplementary applications, and not every program requires one. Note that BA programs do not require a supplementary application. Above, under "Step 2" we have listed the programs that require a supplementary application and what is required for each program.
What are prerequisites for Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) courses? Prerequisites may include both specific courses and, at the 2000-, 3000- and 4000- levels, also the requirement of a cumulative GPA of 4.5 or higher computed over all EECS major courses. “General Prerequisites” is a term used to describe prerequisites that apply to (almost) every course at a particular level.
What are the academic requirements if I am applying to Design directly from a high school in Ontario? Ontario Secondary School Diploma OSSD which includes six 4U or 4M courses, including ENG4U, and all Faculty or program specific prerequisites. Francophone applicants may present FRA4U, FEF4U or FIF4U. We accept a combination of U and M courses. We may offer you early conditional admission if you have strong Grade 11 finals and/or interim Grade 12 results. Applicants must meet the admission requirements in order to participate in the selection process for final admission. The Executive Committee may consider applicants not meeting the requirements on an individual basis.
What are the admission requirements for AMPD? To be considered for admission, Ontario high school students require six 4U or 4M courses including ENG4U. Applicants to Digital Media also require a 4U Math.
What are the Dance streams? Following the common first-year experience, students complete their studies in one of the two specialized streams. In April, faculty assist first-year BFA students in making the stream choice by assessing area strengths demonstrated during the first two academic terms of study (i.e., Fall/Winter). For more information visit https://dance.ampd.yorku.ca/bfa/  
What are the general education requirements for students in School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design? As a student in the School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design, you must take 6.0 credits in the area of humanities, 6.0 in the area of natural science, and 6.0 in the area of social science. Each requirement can be satisfied by a single 6.0 credit course, or two separate 3.0 credit courses. The FA/XXXX 1900 courses you take as part of the program can count toward the humanities area 6.0 requirement. That leaves only 6.0 credits in the natural science area and 6.0 in the social science remaining as your gen eds. Other courses required AMPD courses may also qualify. For more information, see: http://calendars.students.yorku.ca Humanities: classical studies, English, French, history, humanities, languages, modes of reasoning, philosophy. Natural Science: biology, chemistry, earth and atmospheric science, environmental studies ES/ENVS 1500 6.00, natural science, physics and astronomy, science and technology studies (SC/STS). Social Science: anthropology, economics, geography, political science, social science, sociology
What are the Music studies/studio courses that I can take? Refer to online Undergraduate Programme Guide found at: https://music.ampd.yorku.ca/programs/courses/
What are the requirements of my program? The requirements of the program will depend on where you have completed your previous education. To see the requirements specific to you, please visit http://futurestudents.yorku.ca/requirements. You can also see more information about the application process on our “how to apply” page.
What are the Theatre streams? All Theatre students start as Specialized Honours BA Theatre-Theatre Studies students, and do a General First Year that introduces them to all aspects of Theatre, including Acting, Production/Design, and Performance Creation & Research. At the end of first year, students choose their path in our Next Steps process in order to enter Performance Creation & Research, Devised Theatre, Playwriting & New Play Dramaturgy, Production/Design, and Acting Conservatory. For more information visit https://theatre.ampd.yorku.ca/programs/
What are the Visual Art Portfolio requirements? Portfolio requirements vary by program.
    • Admission to the Art History (BA Honours) program is based solely on academic performance.
    • Admission to Visual Arts (BFA Honours) program is based both on academic performance and artistic merit. Both programs require the completion of a portfolio.
Portfolio Review Once you have applied to the program, you will receive an email that will include your reference ID and directions for completing the portfolio review. This email will be sent approximately 5-10 business days after you submit your application.
  • Visual Arts (BFA)
    • The applicant portfolio should comprise 8 artworks that illustrate the student’s technical and creative abilities. At least two different media should be presented from the following: drawing, photography, sculpture, digital art, printmaking, computer-generated imagery, painting, audio-video, experimental work. Slides or photographs are acceptable for large or awkward pieces but original, unmounted artwork is preferred. Your portfolio may include work carried out for class assignments as well as independent projects. A current sketchbook, idea book or journal is required and will count as one of your 8 pieces.
What can I do to improve my chances for being accepted into Film? Immerse yourself as much as you can in thought and activity related to film and media! Watch films outside the mainstream. Learn about the Canadian film industry and film communities. The students who do best in our admissions process tend to be those who have tested their own interest and discovered that it is a passion.
What courses would I take in Media Arts? In the BFA Media Arts program, the first two years include survey courses in cinema and media studies, introduction to screenwriting and 9 credits in Media Practices I, which provides creative exploration in a wide range of media, from Print, Web, Sound and Video, to AR, VR, 360 cinema, games, digital fabrication and other cutting edge technologies. In the third and fourth year, students take advanced courses in cinema and media studies, as well as specialty courses in transmedia storytelling, producing, digital culture, and interactive documentary, as well as further instruction and mentorship in creative media practices. Fourth year students may choose between creating a personal final project, a collaborative cross-university capstone project, or field placements with professional media organizations and businesses, which provide a springboard to graduation and beyond. You will also take courses outside of the Cinema and Media Arts Department, drawn from the rich offerings of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (visual arts, theatre, music, design, digital media, dance) and the University at large.
What courses would I take in the Film BA/Cinema and Media Studies Program? The first two years focus on survey courses, which introduce students to a broad knowledge of film history and theory. The upper level courses specialize in a range of topics. Students can take courses in such areas as the role of film in society, gender and sexuality studies, national cinemas (for example Asian studies) , digital film and new media, television studies, Canadian cinema, film history, experimental and alternative cinemas, documentary, contemporary theory and more. You will also take courses outside of the Cinema and Media Arts Department, drawn from the rich offerings of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (visual arts, theatre, music, design, digital media, dance) and the University at large.
What courses would I take in the Film BFA Production Program? The first two years include 12 credits in film production, 9 credits in screenwriting and 12 credits in film studies. In third and fourth year, the students choose from over 100 credits of offerings in production and screenwriting courses. These include project workshops, which provide creative mentoring in the making of narrative, documentary and experimental film and video projects, and specialty courses which provide advanced instruction in the various craft specializations of filmmaking: cinematography, editing, sound, directing, producing, screenwriting. Production students may also choose to take advanced cinema and media studies courses. Through their choice of courses, students at the upper level may specialize in one particular area or diversify, as they wish. Whichever program you are in, you will also take courses outside of the Cinema and Media Arts Department, drawn from the rich offerings of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (visual arts, theatre, music, design, digital media, dance) and the University at large.
What courses would I take in the Film BFA Screenwriting Program? The first two years include basic courses in production and screenwriting, and survey courses in cinema and media studies. In third and fourth year, screenwriting students take up to 36 (but at least 18) credits in screenwriting, including up to 12 credits in feature film screenwriting, 9 credits in writing for television, and courses in story editing, transmedia storytelling, scene writing, and the history of screenwriting. Screenwriting students may also choose to take some advanced cinema and media studies courses. You will also take courses outside of the Cinema and Media Arts Department, drawn from the rich offerings of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design (visual arts, theatre, music, design, digital media, dance) and the University at large.
What does guaranteed consideration mean? Can I apply or complete my audition/interview/portfolio review after the deadline? Anyone who completes their application before the deadlines listed for their application cycle will have their application reviewed. Applications may be accepted after the guaranteed consideration deadline on a first come first served basis until the program is full.
What exactly are you looking for in Film BA prospective students? We are looking for students who are creative and inquisitive, love cinema and media, and who have superior analytical abilities and excellent writing and research skills. We want students who are eager to join a community of scholars seeking to understand the art and culture of cinema, and who can meet the rigorous challenges of our program.
What exactly are you looking for in Film BFA prospective students? We are looking for students who are passionately creative, have inquiring minds and think critically, have already given serious thought to their impulse to study film, and who are self-motivated and good collaborators. In short, we are looking for students who are a good fit and likely to thrive in our extraordinarily demanding program. For students applying to the Screenwriting program, we also look for demonstrated writing talent.
What Film degree would I obtain? The Department of Cinema & Media Arts offers the following degrees: Production students obtain a BFA Honours Degree (120 credits, of which at least 60 credits are in Film). Screenwriting students obtain a BFA Honours Degree (120 credits, of which at least 48 credits are in Film). Media Arts students obtain a BA Honours Degree (120 credits, of which at least 54 credits are in Film). Cinema and Media Studies students obtain a BA Honours Degree (120 credits, of which at least 48 credits are in Film). There is also a Cinema and Media Studies BA (90 credits, of which 42 are in Film).
What happens after I apply to Digital Media? Digital Media Applicants are admitted based on their GPA.  To check the requirements, visit computationalarts.ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
What happens after I apply to Film? BA applicants are admitted based on their GPA. Once BFA applications have been reviewed and assessed, we invite a portion of the applicants to the campus for an in-person interview. The interview day also includes a tour of our facilities and screenings of students’ films. If you are invited for an interview but live more than 300 km away and are unable to come, we will arrange a phone or Skype interview.
What happens after I apply to Theatre? Theatre applicants are admitted based on GPA.  To check the requirements, please visit theatre.ampd.yorku.ca/apply
What Happens after I apply to Visual Arts & Art History (BA and BFA)? Visual Arts & Art History BA applicants are admitted based on their GPA. BFA applicants are admitted based on GPA and portfolio review.  Once you have applied you will be invited to complete a questionnaire and book your on-campus portfolio review.  The review comprises of a 10 minute one on one discussion with a faculty member where you will discuss your portfolio materials and artistic methods. If you live more than 300 km away and are unable to come, you can submit your portfolio online.  To check the requirements please visit vaah.ampd.yorku.ca/apply
What if I do not submit my supplementary application by the due date? The deadline dates are for guaranteed consideration. Applications will continue to be processed and reviewed following these dates until the program capacity is filled. It is recommended all students submit their supplementary application before the due date. ​​
What if I submit my OUAC application but not my supplementary application? If you do not submit all requirements of your application, you will eventually receive notice you were not admitted, or that your application is ineligible.
What is a 1900 course and why is there no scheduled time? Six credits from the AMPD 1900 3.00 series of courses, outside the major, are required of all School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design degrees. These courses may be used toward satisfying the humanities general education requirement, the in/out requirements or an AMPD elective. For students admitted to the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design with a minimum of 54 transfer credits, the six credits from the 1900 3.00 series of courses outside the major are optional. Only courses with FA/_ _ _ _ 1900 in the course code fulfill this requirement. You can find them in the York University Courses website by searching School of the Arts, Music, Performance & Design, the Department and 1900 under 'Faculty, Subject and Number.' Some 1900 courses such as Dance have online lectures so when you add them to your schedule there won't be a scheduled time for class but there may still be a scheduled tutorial.
What is a “ supplementary application”?  Supplementary application is an additional application process you must undergo after applying through the OUAC portal. The application takes different forms and looks at an applicant's creative abilities necessary for success. Not all programs have supplementary applications.  To see if a program has a supplementary application visit ampd.yorku.ca/apply.
What is an AMPD Elective or In/Out? All students in an AMPD degree program or an Honours Major/Minor program must complete a number of credits in fine arts but outside their major discipline (which is where the term in/out comes from). For more specific information about degree requirements visit the Academic Calendar from the year you started your degree, https://calendars.students.yorku.ca/2019-2020/other-calendars/previous-undergraduate-calendars  
What is the difference between “add”, “exchange” and “transfer” a course? Add – add a course using Cat# Exchange – select a course that you want to drop if the new course you want to add is available. Using this option means if the new course you are trying to add does not go through, you will not be de-enrolled from the course you were about to drop. Transfer – used to transfer among various sections/tutorials/labs in the same course
What is the fee for my audition/interview/portfolio review? Each audition/interview/portfolio review has a fee of $60 payable by credit card. This fee is separate from your application fee. The system accepts most VISA and Mastercard cards.
What is the York BDes looking for in a portfolio? During your portfolio review, the faculty will be looking for the following:
  1. The breadth and quality of investigation in your work (as demonstrated in the selected pieces shown, your idea/concept books, and your design process documentation),
  2. Evidence of the various creative thinking processes employed in your work,
  3. Demonstrated visual abilities in your work (typography, colour, composition, perspective, drawing),
  4. Technical skill in a diverse range of media and tools used,
  5. Communication skills as demonstrated by your ability to discuss your work and thought processes in your writing
  6. Care in the selection and presentation of your work.
What kind of film equipment is available? cma.ampd.yorku.ca/about/facilities-equipment/  
What media do Film production students work in? Students start off in first year working with 16mm film cameras as well as digital cinema cameras. Because many of our incoming students have no previous experience in film production, this allows them to encounter the particular challenges of the both film and digital media. For the next three years students follow digital workflows from camera to the screen – moving from Black Magic Pocket Cinema Cameras to Canon C300 MkII and Sony F7 4K cameras.
What on-campus common spaces are provided to AMPD students? Yes, areas in Winters College, Accolade East, Centre for Film & Theatre and Joan & Martin Goldfarb Centre for Fine Arts host study and common spaces to connect with peers or independent study.
What programs does York offer in Film? The Department of Cinema & Media Arts, which is part of the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design, offers four distinct undergraduate courses of study: Production, Media Arts, Cinema and Media Studies and Screenwriting. For more info visit https://cma.ampd.yorku.ca/undergraduate/  
What work should I include in my portfolio? Assembling Your Portfolio Your portfolio should comprise 10 to 12 samples of original work that demonstrate a wide range of ideas and competency with different media and tools. At least one piece in your portfolio should present word(s) and image(s) that communicate a message. In addition to the types of work listed below, 8-10 scanned pages from your sketchbook or concept/idea book are required. Your portfolio should contain your best work from at least 3 of the following areas (areas 1-6 are highly recommended for inclusion):
  1. Two-dimensional design work e.g. designs for posters, logos, letterheads, book/magazine covers and interior page spreads.
  2. Typography e.g. poetry or words using an expressive font or page layout, typeface designs, expressive lettering, projects with text settings designed for clear communication. Drawings and experiments with typographic form.
  3. Interactive media e.g. web site design and/or other interactive work.
  4. Motion graphics e.g. video or animation using images and typography. Short pieces with a strong message are preferred.
  5. Drawing & Illustration e.g. direct observational drawings are preferred (not drawn from photographs). Imaginative drawing is also welcome. It is good to demonstrate the use of a wide variety of media (pen & ink, charcoal, pastel, coloured pencil, marker pen, collage, digital drawings).
  6. Photography e.g. B&W prints, colour prints, hand-tinted prints, digitally manipulated.
  7. Painting e.g. representative and/or non-representative in oil, acrylic, watercolour, gouache.
  8. 3D Design/Sculpture e.g. scale models from plan drawings, craft and fibre experiments.
The sketchbook or concept/idea book is a very important component of the portfolio. It should contain a variety of studies and examples of your media/tools experiments and demonstrate an exploration of visual and annotated ideas, comments and critiques. It will represent a variety of things that interest you and the ongoing development of ideas. Include 8-10 scanned pages from your sketchbook as a single file.
When are applications due? Please visit futurestudents.yorku.ca/requirements/deadlines for a complete list of deadlines.
When are supplementary applications due? Supplementary applications are due January 31, 2023, for Ontario and non-Ontario high school students and international students. Supplementary applications are due on March 1, 2023 for university/college transfer students and mature students. Visit futurestudents.yorku.ca/requirements/deadlines for all deadlines.
When do classes start and other important dates? https://registrar.yorku.ca/enrol/dates
When is my supplementary application due? The supplementary application deadline is February 1, 2024 for guaranteed consideration.
When is the application deadline? https://ampd.yorku.ca/apply/
When is the deadline to accept my offer for Fall 2022? You can accept your offer by June 1, 2022
When will I get a response to my application? York can send out responses as soon as your application is complete. A complete application can be different depending on the student and the program applied to. For a list of required documents please visit the York website here: futurestudents.yorku.ca/requirements/docs-required Applicants can check yorku.ca/myfile at any time to see if they have any missing requirements. If you feel that a missing requirement is listed in error you can contact admissions at 416-736-5000. Responses for applications that do not require an audition/interview/portfolio review can go out as early as December if York University has received all required documentation. For programs that require an audition/interview/portfolio review, your response will be sent once you have completed the evaluation.
Where can I access health services? http://healthed.scld.yorku.ca
Where can I find a job? http://careers.yorku.ca/students-and-new-grads/looking-for-a-job/consider-a-job-on-campus/
Where can I find a peer mentor in my program? Email your questions to our peer mentors at ampdsam@yorku.ca
Where can I find free learning skills workshops to help me succeed? Visit website for workshop times, locations, and individual appointments: http://lss.info.yorku.ca/workshops
Where can I find help if English isn’t my first language? http://eslolc.laps.yorku.ca
Where can I find information about the bookstore? http://bookstore.yorku.ca
Where can I find information and resources for mature and/or part-time students? Visit the Atkinson Centre for Mature and Part-Time Students (111 Central Square). For more information, call 416-736-5770, visit http://acmaps.info.yorku.ca or email acmaps@yorku.ca
Where can I find information on housing? http://studenthousing.info.yorku.ca
Where can I go for personal counselling information and resources for students with different disabilities? Visit Counselling and Disability Services, N110 Bennett Centre for Student Services, 416-736-5297, cds.info.yorku.ca Mental Health Disabilities mhds.info.yorku.ca Learning Disabilities lds.info.yorku.ca Centre for Human Rights rights.info.yorku.ca Personal Counselling Services: pcs.info.yorku.ca Physical, Sensory, and/or Medical Disabilities Physical, Sensory & Medical Disability Services: http://psmd.info.yorku.ca
Where can I learn about the College system? http://calendars.students.yorku.ca/2016-2017/academic-and-financial-information/academic-services/the-college-system
Where can I learn about the libraries? http://library.yorku.ca/web
Where can I look up courses? https://w2prod.sis.yorku.ca/Apps/WebObjects/cdm
Where do I find information and forms about Academic Resources (such as changing your program or petitioning etc.)? You can find information at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do I find information and forms about Campus Services (Bookstore, Housing etc.)? You can find information at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do I find information and forms about Courses and Enrolment (adding and dropping courses, Important Dates etc.)? You can find information at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do I find information and forms about Future Planning (Career Centre, Convocation etc.)? You can find information at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do I find information and forms about Money Matters (fees, financial aid etc.)? You can find information about fees, financial aid, money you owe etc  at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do I find information and forms about Student Life (Conflict Resolution, Counseling & Disability Services etc.)? You can find information at the York University Current Students portal http://www.yorku.ca/yorkweb/cs.htm
Where do incoming students come from? Approximately half of our students come from somewhere in Ontario. The remainder come from across Canada and around the world.
Where do these portfolio pieces come from? Typically, the applicant selects their pieces to show in their portfolio from school assigned projects, personal interest projects (e.g. a book cover you designed on your own for your favourite novel), ideas (sketchbook, concept/idea book, etc.), development/variations of ideas (design process documentation), extra curricular art/design classes and professional work where appropriate.
Which courses can I take to fulfill my studies/studios 3rd/4th year requirements? Refer to online Undergraduate Programme Guide found at: https://music.ampd.yorku.ca/programs/courses/
Who can I call if I am stressed out?
Who owns the films made by students? Answer Students own their own film works. They are required only to acknowledge the department’s participation in an on-screen credit
Who pays for the cost of student films? The department provides equipment, facilities and support. Students crew on one another’s projects. In general, hard costs are borne by the students. Students who enroll in the BFA program can expect to spend $500 in their first year and $1000 in second year. In third and fourth year, costs depend entirely on what projects students choose to undertake. Costs are generally shared between key crew members who are gaining academic credit for a production (usually 4 or 5 key crew positions); the director has primary overall responsibility. The approved spending cap for third year and fourth year productions is $ 4000
Who teaches in the Department of Cinema & Media Arts at York? cma.ampd.yorku.ca/people/full-time/
Why does Dance 1400 not have a regular scheduled class time? Answer Dance 1400 is a studio course intended for those who do not have a background in dance. This course has no 'class' (lecture) component so you only need to attend your scheduled lab.
Will Orientation Week 2022 be online? Health and safety are top priorities at York University. The School is monitoring public health guidelines and will keep students updated on Orientation Week 2022 as the pandemic progresses. Please visit yorku.ca/bettertogether for the most up-to-date information.
Will there be in-person university sanctioned events? Health and safety is always top priority at York University. The School is monitoring public health guidelines and will update students as the pandemic progresses. Please visit yorku.ca/bettertogether for the most up-to-date information.
x. When will I find out the results of my Music audition?
y. What does guaranteed consideration mean? Can I apply or complete my audition/interview/portfolio review after the deadline? Anyone who completes their application before the deadlines listed for their application cycle will have their application reviewed. Applications may be accepted after the guaranteed consideration deadline on a first come first served basis until the program is full.