Massey University

What you'll study

The BFA is structured around intensive studio practice complemented by contextual and professional studies. Across the degree you will work in a range of disciplines that commonly include drawing and painting, sculpture and installation, print media, photography and lens-based practice, time-based and moving-image work, new media and digital practices, and material-based craft processes.

Typical components include:

• Studio practice – sustained project work, individual tutorials and group critiques to develop technical skill and a personal portfolio.
• Contextual studies – art history, contemporary art theory and critical writing to situate your work within broader cultural conversations.
• Technical workshops – specialist workshops in ceramics, metalwork, printmaking, photography darkroom and digital labs where available.
• Professional practice – exhibition-making, portfolio development, curatorial projects, arts management and pathways for self-promotion and freelancing.
• Major project – a culminating body of work in the final year presented in an assessed public exhibition or equivalent outcome.

Study is a combination of practical studio hours, seminars, lectures and one-on-one supervision. Students are encouraged to pursue cross-disciplinary projects and to take advantage of opportunities for collaborative and community-based work.

Entry requirements

Entry to the BFA normally requires university entrance from secondary school or an approved equivalent qualification. Applicants are typically expected to demonstrate a creative aptitude through a submitted portfolio of recent work; the portfolio is a key part of the selection process.

• Academic – New Zealand University Entrance, or an equivalent international secondary qualification. Mature applicants with relevant experience may be considered.
• Portfolio – a curated selection of artworks showing process and finished pieces; guidelines and submission requirements are provided by the programme and applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide a visual statement.
• English language – applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Specific entry steps, portfolio guidance and advice for international or mature applicants are available from Massey’s admissions team and the College of Creative Arts information pages.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BFA follow diverse careers within the creative and cultural sectors. Common pathways include:

• Professional visual artist with gallery and exhibition practice
• Curator, gallery or museum staff and exhibition technician roles
• Arts administrator, cultural project manager or events programmer
• Designer, illustrator, photographer, film and moving-image practitioner
• Arts educator, community arts coordinator or workshop facilitator
• Further study at honours, masters or postgraduate diploma level leading to research, teaching or specialised practice

The degree also provides transferable skills valuable in related industries: project management, visual communication, critical thinking, and professional self-promotion.

Why study at Massey University

Massey’s fine arts programme offers sustained studio time, access to specialist workshops and dedicated on‑campus exhibition spaces where students show their work. Teaching staff are practising artists and academics who combine professional practice with research and industry links, offering mentorship and real-world insight into contemporary art careers.

The programme supports interdisciplinary collaboration across creative fields and provides pathways to further study and professional development. Students benefit from a community of peers, visiting artists and curators, and opportunities to participate in public exhibitions and projects that build a professional profile while completing the degree.