New Zealand Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4)
Visual Arts
A course by
UCOL
Develop your creative voice and proficiency in the language of art and design. Choose a specialty and receive foundational education in visual arts, design media, textiles/fashion and more, taught by industry-experienced staff, and prepare for future study or entry-level creative roles.
NZ$3,981
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop Creative Practice
Develop technical and conceptual skills across a range of arts and design fields, applying tools, techniques, and processes appropriate to directed creative briefs.
Understand Art and Design History
Gain foundational knowledge of national and international art/design practice, including key historical principles, contexts, and conventions.
About This Course
This programme is designed for creative thinkers who want to explore, experiment, and develop their unique artistic voice. Students will be introduced to a range of materials and methods, build research skills for creative problem-solving, and learn from lecturers who are active, nationally and internationally recognised designers and artists. Areas of study include glass arts, visual arts, design media, and fashion design. Core skill-building courses in drawing, art and design history, and practical studio experience support specialty electives. The course includes both compulsory and elective modules and offers access to modern facilities, industry connections, and pathways to higher-level art and design qualifications.
Course Content
- Art/Design History: Introduction to national and international art/design practice, key principles and contexts.
- Creative Methodology: Develop creative skills through tools, techniques and processes for art/design briefs.
- Drawing and creative problem-solving.
- Compulsory skill-building workshops.
- Elective: Visual Arts Studio (2D & 3D), Whanganui campus.
- Elective: Fashion Design, Whanganui campus.
- Elective: Graphic Design, Palmerston North or Whanganui campus.
- Elective: Photography, Palmerston North or Whanganui campus.
- Elective: Digital Media, Palmerston North or Whanganui campus.
- Studio-based practical learning.
- Research and applied visual communication.
- Health and safety practices in studio environments.
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Entry level positions in arts and/or creative industriesStudio assistantFreelance creative rolesSupport roles in art and design projectsPathway to higher level study
Build skills in these industries
ArtsDesignFashion
UCOL is a polytechnic built around the kind of learning that actually sticks — hands-on, practical, and grounded in the real world. With campuses across the lower North Island and a programme range that stretches from trades and health to creative arts and IT, it's a strong fit for learners who want a clear path into work without unnecessary detours. Whether you're fresh out of school, changing direction, or building on what you already know, UCOL is set up to meet you where you are.
