New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design
Visual Arts
A course by
UCOL
The UCOL New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design (Level 5) is a 1-year full-time diploma designed to develop creative skills across areas such as Glass Arts, Visual Arts, Design Media, and Textiles/Fashion Design. It introduces students to a range of materials and methods, research skills, art and design history, studio practice, and professional art/design practices.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
UCOL Whanganui, Whanganui
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Develop creative and technical skills in art and design
Students will gain proficiency in a range of visual arts and design techniques including drawing, glass art, textiles, and digital media to develop unique artistic solutions.
Understand visual language and contemporary art/design theory
Students will study formal art elements and critically engage with theoretical texts to inform their creative practice and presentations.
Apply research methods to art and design projects
What You're Signing Up For
This diploma is suited to people wanting to find their creative voice by selecting one of several areas of study including Glass Arts, Visual Arts, Design Media, and Textiles/Fashion Design. The programme consists of 120 credits and covers fundamental art and design skills including drawing, art/design history, research methods, health and safety in studios, and project management. Students engage with both theory and practical work to develop their personal artistic and design concepts. The programme prepares graduates for careers in various art and design fields and provides pathways for further study at bachelor's and postgraduate levels.
Course Content
- Visual Language (15 credits): Study of formal art/design elements and contemporary visual culture theory.
- Art/Design LAB 1 (15 credits): Creative design process, problem-solving, research, and exploration of materials.
- Art/Design LAB 2 (15 credits): Extended conceptual and practice-based design processes with 2D and 3D materials.
- Design Practical 1 (15 credits): Use of technologies and industry-standard software for art and design production.
- Art/Design History 1 (15 credits): Introduction to the significance of art, design, and fashion across cultures including indigenous contexts.
- Drawing 1 (15 credits): Develop technical drawing skills and knowledge of historical and contemporary drawing trends.
- Electives (30 credits) in one of the following areas: Glass Arts (glass 2D and 3D), Design Media (graphic design, animation, publication), Visual Arts (2D and 3D art media), Textiles/Fashion Design (design, pattern drafting, construction).
What you need to know first
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Arts and Culture
Creative Arts
Design Studios
Future employment opportunities might be
Object design
Visual arts practice
Gallery practice