Bachelor of Fine Arts
Visual Arts
A course by
University of Canterbury
Gain a broad knowledge in visual arts, multimedia, and design before specialising in one studio area. UC's Bachelor of Fine Arts is a prestigious degree, offering practical and conceptual training, access to personal studios, and strong community support.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 4 years
Core skills this course teaches
Develop expertise in visual arts practice
Gain technical and conceptual skills in your chosen fine arts specialisation, such as painting, sculpture, photography, moving image, or graphic design.
Build a personal and professional artistic identity
Explore and shape your own identity as an artist within a supportive and diverse community of practitioners.
Critical and creative thinking
Enhance your ability to analyse, critique, and reflect on your own work and that of others, incorporating theory and history of art and design.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) at the University of Canterbury develops both practical and conceptual skills in visual arts, design, and multimedia. Students begin with a broad-based introduction in all studio specialisations before selecting one area for further focus. The degree emphasises individual artistic development, critical thinking, and professional practice. Students work in purpose-built studios, engage with art history and theory, and benefit from a supportive community of practitioners. Graduates exhibit their work, participate in community projects, and acquire key organisational, creative, and technical skills. The BFA can also provide a pathway to honours and postgraduate study.
Course Content
- Introduction to all five studio specialisations in Year 1: Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Moving Image, Graphic Design
- Compulsory courses: FINA101 What is Practice?, FINA102 Communities of Practice, FINA103 Studio Practice
- Compulsory Art History and/or Cinema Studies courses
- Studio practice in chosen specialisation from Year 2 onward
- Access to personal studio space from Year 2
- Workshops: technician workshops, workrooms, darkrooms, computer labs
- Use of Ilam Campus Gallery
- Exhibitions and community art projects
- Theory courses in Art History, Theory, and/or Cinema Studies
- Portfolio development and presentation skills
What you need to know first
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Arts
Creative Industries
Media
Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Professional Artist
Art Gallery Director
Photojournalist