University of Auckland

What you'll study

The BFAHons is an intensive, research‑led year that combines advanced studio practice with critical and contextual studies. You develop a significant independent honours project (studio work, curatorial project, or practice‑based research) under individual supervision, supported by coursework in research methodologies, critical theory, and professional practice.

• Advanced Studio Practice: sustained practical work in the student’s chosen media, which may include painting, sculpture, printmaking, time‑based media, performance, installation and new media.
• Research Studio/Thesis: an extended practice‑based project or written thesis that demonstrates original research and contributes to contemporary debates in fine art.
• Theoretical and Critical Studies: seminars and readings that situate practice in contemporary art history, theory, and critical discourse, including methodologies for practice‑led research.
• Curatorial and Exhibition Practice: modules that cover exhibition design, curatorial research, cataloguing, and professional presentation of work.
• Professional Practice: skills for career development such as grant writing, portfolio presentation, artist statements, networking, and engagement with galleries, festivals and cultural institutions.
• Interdisciplinary Opportunities: access to cross‑disciplinary electives, collaborations with other departments, and shared workshops and specialist facilities.

Structure

The programme is normally taken as a one‑year full‑time honours year following a relevant undergraduate degree. Teaching is delivered through a combination of individual supervision, seminars, studio critiques, practical workshops and an exhibition or public presentation of your honours project.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for example a BFA or a related bachelor) with a strong academic record and substantial creative work. Admission decisions are made on the basis of academic transcripts, a portfolio of recent work, a research statement or proposal, and usually a written or interview component.

• Academic qualification: an undergraduate degree in fine art or a closely related discipline with a level of achievement demonstrating readiness for honours‑level study.
• Portfolio: a curated selection of recent practical work that evidences technical competence, conceptual rigour and the ability to sustain a practice.
• Research proposal / statement: a clear outline of the proposed honours project, research questions and methods, and anticipated outcomes.
• References and interview: academic or professional referees and, where required, an interview with academic staff to discuss the proposal and fit with available supervision.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from the BFAHons are prepared for a range of professional and research pathways within the creative sector. The programme strengthens capabilities for independent creative practice and enhances prospects for employment and further study.

• Professional visual artist or collaborative practitioner working across public and commercial contexts.
• Curator, exhibition producer or gallery professional in public galleries, artist‑run spaces and private galleries.
• Arts manager, cultural producer, or project coordinator in festivals, museums and cultural organisations.
• Educator or community arts facilitator in tertiary, secondary or community settings.
• Further academic study such as a research master’s (MPhil/MFA) or doctoral programmes leading to careers in research and higher education.

Why study at University of Auckland

The BFAHons is offered through Elam School of Fine Arts, one of New Zealand’s established centres for studio‑based and practice‑led art education. Students benefit from intensive supervision, specialist workshops and shared studio spaces, and engagement with the vibrant arts ecology of Auckland, including public galleries, independent spaces and professional networks.

• Research‑led teaching: supervisors who are active practitioners and researchers provide tailored support for practice‑based investigation.
• Facilities and resources: access to workshops, digital media labs, fabrication equipment and exhibition spaces to realise ambitious projects.
• Exhibition opportunities: students present their honours work in public exhibitions or curated presentations, gaining experience in professional display and public engagement.
• Connections and networks: proximity to national and regional arts organisations, festivals and galleries supports professional development and creative collaborations.