Capital University

What you'll study

The programme provides a mix of foundation studies, advanced studio courses and art‑historical/contextual learning. Early modules focus on drawing, two‑ and three‑dimensional design, colour theory and basic materials/techniques to build a robust technical grounding. As you progress, you choose from concentrations such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography/digital media and mixed media, while maintaining a breadth of practice through elective studios.

• Foundation studio courses — drawing, design, colour, materials and processes.
• Advanced studios — painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography/digital, mixed media and installation.
• Art history and theory — survey courses and topical seminars covering historical movements, contemporary practice and critical theory.
• Professional practice — portfolio development, curatorial practice, exhibition design, grant writing and arts entrepreneurship.
• Senior capstone — an independently conceived body of work culminating in a public exhibition and written artist statement or thesis.

Learning and assessment

Teaching combines studio contact hours, seminars, critiques and independent studio time. Assessment is typically through practical projects, juried critiques, written assignments, presentations and the final capstone exhibition.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school completion or equivalent. Admission places strong emphasis on a creative portfolio that demonstrates observational skill, conceptual development and technical potential. Applicants may also be asked for a personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals, and to attend an interview or portfolio review.

• Academic background — satisfactory secondary school qualifications or equivalent.
• Portfolio — a curated selection of recent work, showing technique, process and creative thinking.
• Supporting materials — personal statement; references may be requested.
• Other considerations — relevant preparatory experience (school or community arts programmes) is advantageous; mature applicants are welcomed and assessed on a combination of portfolio and experience.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical studio skills, critical awareness and professional readiness applicable to a range of pathways. Many go on to work as practising studio artists, exhibiting and selling work, or pursue postgraduate study such as an MFA. Other common careers include gallery and museum roles (curation, collections and education), arts administration, community arts coordination, gallery management, illustration and commercial design. With further qualification or training, graduates may enter conservation, art therapy or secondary and further education teaching.

Why study at Capital University

Capital University offers a supportive, studio‑focused environment with small class sizes and regular critique-based learning, allowing personalised feedback from faculty who are practising artists and scholars. Students benefit from dedicated studio spaces, access to specialist workshops and opportunities to exhibit work in campus galleries. The university’s location provides connections to regional arts organisations, internships and community partnerships that help students gain real-world experience and professional networks while building their practice and portfolio.