Comments on: NSCAD – Self Directed Learning

By: Janet

Janet — Sun, 16 May 2010 19:20:42 +0000

I graduated from the NSCAD design program in 2004, and I have to say that I agree with pretty much everything said in this review – specifically about the theory over technical skill comment. After several years in the industry, I will say that I understand why they did this. A strong theory base will always stay with you. The software and skill base required constantly changes as the industry evolves, so one does in real life have to take the continued initiative to keep on top of industry standards anyways.

The only thing I would add is that I found NSCAD rather idealistic – too much so almost – in terms of the real world application. Some of the theories I learned while at NSCAD are simply too theoretical or academically driven to work, especially in terms of commercial use. I currently work in packaging design (something the program seriously lacked in earnest and practical effort), and found that I had a serious shift to make in my thinking when working with real clients – which often has decision makers at the helm that do not understand the least little thing about design or pushing the envelope. They are involved with making sales – not pretty packaging most of the time. The same may be able to be said about print design (which is what the majority of the NSCAD program focuses on), but in my professional experience, the program lacked a certain functional quality.

That being said, the best thing I gained from the program was the mantra of one of the main design professors there, “It might be pretty, but does it work?”. This really is a genius attitude to enter the industry with. The heads of Pentagram and other major players all pretty much come from the same school of thought.

One last thing I will comment on is the web design, or lack thereof. When I applied to attend NSCAD in 1999, I actually applied to their major in interactive design. Little did I know, but after the dot.com bubble burst, there was a sharp downward trend in learning in that area, and NSCAD promptly cut the program just as I was entering my 3rd year of the program (1st year of 2 in their design major). Apparently it was only I, and two others who had applied for the web program. So I ended up having to settle for the general program, after which I discovered my love of packaging design, and not UI work.

NSCAD was mostly invaluable to me in allowing me a learning setting where everyone was very very serious about what they’re doing. Everyone there wants to be there. It takes a lot to be admitted, and even more back breaking work, time, and money, to get into the design program – but it is worth it.

By: Chris

Chris — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:03:09 +0000

Those are great and true comments John. Overall the faculty is excellent, though there have been an instructor or 2 in my experience that have inhibited learning as opposed to supported it.

By: John

John — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:41:37 +0000

I go to NSCAD currently and have been attending since 2008.

Compared to my previous school this has so much to offer (ocad).

The professors are intelligent, thoughtful and very dedicated.

The administration, unfortunately is kind of just functioning. Nothing special there. No vision really.

The students are amazing, everyone is really hardworking and wants to be there.

I feel like there is a real community, gallery openings you seen others you know, in the painting studio everyone is pretty open and friendly. Its a place that will change your life for the good, as long as its soul is kept intact. I am afraid for the future of this lovely place. The port campus was a huge waste of money. If you are in fine art or craft, (which is what i know) GO TO THIS SCHOOL!

By: Marc LaTulippe

Marc LaTulippe — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 15:46:40 +0000

Great review Chris.

I bet we probably learned more from working with each other at NSCAD then from some of the staff.

That being said, 1 or 2 instructors made all the difference in my experience there, for the best and the worst.