‘Great bridge program’

Agreement allows for credits to York University

Graduates from Holland College’s School of Performing Arts programs will be able to receive credits toward a bachelor of fine arts degree from York University thanks to a new articulation agreement signed between the two institutions.

The School of Performing Arts (SoPA), which is a partnership between Holland College and Confederation Centre of the Arts, offers two-year diploma programs in music performance, dance performance and theatre performance.

Eligible students following the Holland College – York University Performing Arts Pathway will be granted a block of 48 transfer credits toward the 120 credits required for a BFA Honours degree in dance, music or theatre. Coupled with the eligibility to transfer up to 12 additional university credits, this provides the option of completing the York BFA within two years, following graduation from Holland College.

Gaylene Carragher, director of SoPA, said the new agreement gives the students the opportunity to transition into the prestigious program at York University in Toronto seamlessly and cost effectively.

“Agreements such as this ensure that SoPA students transition into university to pursue their educational and artistic aspirations without having to go through the arduous process of applying for credit transfers on a course by course basis,” she said.

“With small class sizes and a small town setting, SoPA can be a great bridge program as students adjust to post-secondary study,” added Peggy Reddin, director of Arts Education at Confederation Centre and manager of the dance performance and theatre performance programs