Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Develop advanced research and studio practice skills in the visual arts, culminating in a critically engaged body of work and research paper.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year

Produce a body of creative work in the visual arts that demonstrates advanced conceptual, technical, and critical engagement.

Complete a research essay (up to 5,000 words) which contextualises and supports your studio work within contemporary theory and practice.

Participate in seminars, critiques, and group discussions to enhance your understanding and articulation of visual arts practice.
Ideal for passionate artists seeking to refine their studio and research skills, the Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) enables you to produce a body of critically engaged work supported by a substantial research paper. This Level 8 qualification provides individual supervision and access to outstanding workshops and facilities. You will explore contemporary visual arts thinking through a proposal-based project, supported by studio and theory supervisors, as well as a visiting artists programme and group work opportunities. The programme finishes with a graduate exhibition and research essay. Graduates are well equipped for roles in the arts sector or for progressing to master's level study.
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Visual Arts (Level 7) or equivalent bachelor's level qualification with B (70%) or higher in final year studio and essay papers

Visual Arts
Creative Arts

Practising artist
Curatorial work
Teaching in art education
Arts management

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.
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Develop advanced research and studio practice skills in the visual arts, culminating in a critically engaged body of work and research paper.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year

Produce a body of creative work in the visual arts that demonstrates advanced conceptual, technical, and critical engagement.

Complete a research essay (up to 5,000 words) which contextualises and supports your studio work within contemporary theory and practice.

Participate in seminars, critiques, and group discussions to enhance your understanding and articulation of visual arts practice.
Ideal for passionate artists seeking to refine their studio and research skills, the Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) enables you to produce a body of critically engaged work supported by a substantial research paper. This Level 8 qualification provides individual supervision and access to outstanding workshops and facilities. You will explore contemporary visual arts thinking through a proposal-based project, supported by studio and theory supervisors, as well as a visiting artists programme and group work opportunities. The programme finishes with a graduate exhibition and research essay. Graduates are well equipped for roles in the arts sector or for progressing to master's level study.
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Visual Arts (Level 7) or equivalent bachelor's level qualification with B (70%) or higher in final year studio and essay papers

Visual Arts
Creative Arts

Practising artist
Curatorial work
Teaching in art education
Arts management

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.
Portfolio submission
Curriculum vitae
Project proposal
Interview
If the above qualification is not held, demonstrated appropriate ability through portfolio and writings, subject to Postgraduate Admissions Committee approval
International students individually assessed for readiness
Public art projects
Design projects
Work in arts outreach and access fields
Portfolio submission
Curriculum vitae
Project proposal
Interview
If the above qualification is not held, demonstrated appropriate ability through portfolio and writings, subject to Postgraduate Admissions Committee approval
International students individually assessed for readiness
Public art projects
Design projects
Work in arts outreach and access fields