Bachelor of Visual Arts
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A three-year degree focused on studio-based learning and specialist visual arts disciplines, preparing graduates for diverse artistic careers and further study.
NZ$9,322
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop advanced skills in a chosen visual arts discipline
Students gain specialist practical and technical skills in one of seven studio disciplines after a foundation year of broader experience.
Build creative, academic, and research abilities
About This Course
The Bachelor of Visual Arts at Otago Polytechnic offers students the opportunity to develop their creativity and technical skills across seven specialist studio disciplines: ceramics, jewellery and metalsmithing, painting, photography, print, sculpture, and textiles. Students engage in core art courses, art history, and theory in their first year, before specialising in a discipline and building towards an independent body of work and public exhibition. The programme is renowned for excellent studio-based teaching and a nationally unique range of facilities. Graduates gain broad transferable skills valuable both in creative professions and other fields and are well prepared for roles such as practising artist, curator, art educator, researcher, or roles within design, management, or digital/film industries. The qualification also acts as a bridge to postgraduate study.
Course Content
- Ceramics: wood, salt, electric and gas kilns, clay-making workshops
- Jewellery and Metalsmithing: design for the body, visual language, practical skills
- Painting: contemporary practice, historical methodologies
- Photography: black and white, colour, alternative processes, equipment and technique
- Printmaking: extensive print processes, creative concept development
- Sculpture: form and spatial analysis, wood/metal/plastics fabrication, casting
- Textiles: cloth in visual arts, construction, screen-print, embroidery, 3D sewing
- Studio Methodologies: art-making and research skills
- Art History and Theory: foundations in art history and critical theory
- Professional Methodologies & Studio Research: preparing final year exhibition and art practice in context
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Practising ArtistCuratorArt EducatorResearcherDesignerPhotographerJewellery DesignerArt Manager
Build skills in these industries
Arts
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
