School of the Arts
Welcome to the School of the Arts (SOTA), where our students learn to express their creative visions through arts of all kinds. We promote excellence in artistic production in all its diverse forms, as well as critical and theoretical analysis and study in both historic and contemporary contexts.
Our Vision
To empower students to act as engaged global citizens who contribute to the transformative roles of the arts in society.
SOTA graduates are resourceful, innovative and highly adaptable learners who can navigate the social, cultural and economic complexities of the contemporary world and contribute in a meaningful way to the decision-making processes of their societies. As the arts hub at McMaster, SOTA organizes and hosts concerts, exhibitions, performances, visiting artists and workshops, which connect our faculty to the vibrant cultural communities of downtown Hamilton, and bring our students into direct engagement with the public at large.
Our Mission
The School of the Arts at McMaster is supported by staff and faculty that are dedicated to high quality teaching and research. Through close connection with faculty, we promote excellence in artistic production in all its diverse forms, as well as critical, theoretical analysis and study in historical and contemporary contexts.
SOTA’s faculty recognize the integral role of the arts in individual and public well-being, community building, inclusivity and global awareness. We offer a unique balance of hands-on and experiential opportunities combined with historical, theoretical and critical approaches. Our students study the social and cultural implications of the arts, and they collaborate with faculty in studio and laboratory settings, mount and critique exhibitions and theatrical productions, and train as solo and ensemble performers.
Our Values
Through creative arts practices, critical analysis and experiential learning, we ignite curiosity and inspire students to question and engage as contributors in their immediate communities and broader society. Our values are rooted in a commitment to diversity and multi-faceted learning experiences.