New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design
Visual Arts
A course by
UCOL
A hands-on diploma programme to develop creative skills in visual arts, design, fashion/textiles, glass arts, and digital design. Provides foundational knowledge and prepares learners for further study or a career in creative industries.
NZ$9,175
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Develop creative skills in art and design media
Students will gain foundational knowledge and hands-on experience across a range of art and design media, including drawing, digital, and craft-based techniques.
Apply critical and historical understanding
Students will explore art and design history, theory, and contemporary practices, with emphasis on Aotearoa New Zealand and indigenous perspectives.
About This Course
The New Zealand Diploma in Arts and Design is an ideal starting point for students to discover and grow their skills across visual arts, design, fashion, textiles, glass arts, and digital media. The programme offers compulsory courses in drawing, art and design history, creative processes, and practical design, alongside electives in specialist areas. Delivered by experienced practitioners and through active community partnerships, students build a strong foundation in artistic media, art history, and critical approaches, preparing them for higher-level study or entry into creative industries.
Course Content
- Visual Language (art/design concepts, critique, art theory, research, including Tikanga and Taha Māori, Raranga practices)
- Art/Design LAB 1 and LAB 2 (hands-on creative process, materials exploration, project briefs)
- Design Practical 1 (production techniques, industry-standard software and print processes, project management)
- Art/Design History 1 (art, design, and fashion history, New Zealand art and indigenous culture)
- Drawing 1 (technical drawing, trends, local context)
- Elective Streams (students choose one):
- - Glass Arts (2D and 3D glass media, studio practice)
- - Design Media (typography, publication design, motion graphics, digital technologies)
- - Visual Arts (2D and 3D studio practice, contemporary practice)
- - Textiles/Fashion (design and construction, fabric techniques, patternmaking, Raranga, health and safety)
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Object designVisual arts practiceGallery practiceCommercial glass studiosCraft production
Build skills in these industries
Creative IndustriesArts & DesignFashion/Textiles
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.
