New Zealand Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4)
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Begin to build skills and a degree-level portfolio for further study in visual arts and design or to take a junior role in a creative workplace.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 17 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Apply technical skills and technologies
Produce and present arts, craft, or design creative work by extending technical skills and using appropriate technologies.
Demonstrate creative processes and professional practices
Use discovery, conceptualisation, review, iteration, prototyping, and presentation in response to various arts, craft, or design briefs.
Evaluate creative work using elements and principles of practice
What You're Signing Up For
This 17-week full-time programme introduces students to foundational art and design practices, preparing them for pathways into Otago Polytechnic’s bachelor degrees in Design and Visual Arts, or a junior role in a creative industry. Students gain skills in art and design history, creative processes, drawing, illustration, sculpture, and will complete their own art or design project. There is open entry with a portfolio required. The course is delivered on-campus in Dunedin.
Course Content
- Art and Design History: An introduction to national and international art and design practice, historical principles, contexts, and conventions.
- Creative Methodology: Develop technical and conceptual creative skills through application of tools, techniques, and processes.
- Visual Arts: Work in two- and three-dimensional forms using a variety of visual art mediums.
- Studio Project: Apply technical and conceptual skills in a learner-led capstone art or design project.
What you need to know first
Open entry.
A portfolio or evidence of creative work is required.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Creative Industries
Visual Arts
Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Junior role in a creative workplace
Assistant in art or design studios
Start of pathway towards professional creative careers
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.