FINE 243 Experiential Learning in Fine Arts (.25 credit course)
FINE 343 Experiential Learning in Fine Arts (.25 credit course)
The Experiential Learning in Fine Arts courses give you the chance to step directly into the professional art world—working with galleries, museums, and artists across the region. Enrolling in either course provides you time and space to build hands-on experience, grow your network, and develop real-world skills that complement your creative practice. Whether you’re interested in curating, digital arts, arts education, creative programming, or working with contemporary artists, this is your opportunity to shape your future in the arts while earning credit toward your degree.
After you enroll and once the term starts, all course information/documents (including important milestone dates and step-by-step instructions on how to progress through this course) will be made available to you on a dedicated LEARN shell.
Here is a sample of the syllabus: FINE 243|343 course syllabus (PDF).
FINE 243|343 Questions and Answers
How do I register for 243/343?
To enroll in FINE 243 or 343 you must be a Fine Arts major in, at least, your 2A term.
Can I take 243 and 343 at the same time?
Yes! It is possible to take 243 and 343 in the same term. However, they must be distinctly different internships. Both internships can be in the same location or institution but must be two distinct projects with different supervisors. Plus, there is a minimum of 36 hours of unpaid internship required work for each course/internship.
How should I introduce myself to a potential institution or supervisor?
A template sample letter is included in your course materials on the 243/343 LEARN site. You will have access to this document once enrolled in the course, at the start of term.
Your letter/email of introduction should include:
- Salutation should be formal: Dear Ms. | Mr.
- Introduce yourself: name, program, course
- Describe your specific interest – short or long term is OK
- Thank them in advance for considering your request
- Use formal closing signature: Sincerely
- Leave preferred contact information
Is it possible to start an internship in one term and complete it in the next?
All 243/343 internships must be completed in the term that they are begun. There are no extensions.
How do I find an internship?
This course requires students to be self-directed in securing their intern placement. Students can find internship opportunities independently (see question below); however, each placement needs to be approved 2 weeks in advance by the course instructor, and intern placements must meet all mandatory safety and training criteria outlined by the course expectations (see step-by-step instructions which include expectations of supervisors). Alternatively, the Fine Arts Department has established formal relationships with a variety of regional art institutions and local artists who have agreed to act as supervisors in the program – we offer a great network for students to start looking from. (The list of potential participating institutions will be provided on the dedicated LEARN site post-enrollment into the course).
Students are responsible for making initial contact with the institution or artist of their choice. Precise duties and scheduling of hours are agreed upon by the institution/artist and the student and then approved by the course instructor.
Is it possible to set up an internship with an institution that the department does not already have a formal agreement with?
It is possible to set up your own internship in an art-related field. If you have found a potential institution (gallery, museum, etc.) that you would like to intern with, you will need to give the course instructor at least two weeks notice before the work agreement is due. The course instructor will need to approve the placement, and not all employers are eligible. The internship employer should be made aware of the current syllabus and the employers guidelines (PDF) which are both available on the 243/343 LEARN website.
Can I arrange an internship outside of Ontario?
Sorry, it is not possible to arrange and internship outside of Ontario. As an intern in Ontario students are covered by the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act. The Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act offers protection to interns in the province of Ontario with regards to their health and safety while on the job. It is important for all employers to ensure a safe working environment for their employees, including interns.
Can I get paid for my internship?
Sorry no, an internship is a method of on-the-job training towards a professional career and the department intends the course to be unpaid work experience.
Can I use the internship as part of my 100 hours for Teaching Preparation Specialization?
Yes, for those students pursuing the Fine Arts Teaching Preparation Specialization, hours spent working in a teaching capacity in these courses can be counted toward the 100 hours of relevant work experience required for that program. Please note: Your internship must be directed towards education for it to count.
Can I internship with my mom, uncle, best friend, next door neighbour........?
Sorry no family or friends, the supervisor and agreement must be at Arm's Length (arm's length).