Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Visual Arts is a three-year, studio-focused programme that balances practical studio practice with art history, theory and professional development. In first year you develop core skills across a range of media and processes, and learn ways of researching and presenting ideas. In later years you specialise in one or more pathways—commonly painting, sculpture, print media, photography, time-based media/digital art, and intermedia—while continuing to take contextual studies in contemporary art, critical theory, and curatorial practice.

• Studio practice and technical workshops (drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital media)
• Contemporary art theory and art history
• Research methods, professional practice and exhibition-making
• Interdisciplinary projects and collaborative studio work
• Final-year major project and public exhibition or equivalent portfolio presentation
• Electives that may include curatorial studies, Māori and Pacific arts perspectives, and cross-campus creative collaborations

Entry requirements

Entry typically requires university entrance or an equivalent secondary qualification. Applicants must submit a portfolio of recent artwork that demonstrates creative potential, technical ability and conceptual engagement; portfolios are assessed as part of the selection process. Some applicants are invited to an interview or studio review. International applicants need to meet AUT's general academic and English-language entry requirements or demonstrate an approved equivalent.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Bachelor of Visual Arts pursue a wide range of careers within the creative and cultural sectors. Many continue as practising artists exhibiting nationally and internationally, while others move into roles such as:

• Gallery and museum work (curating, collections support, exhibitions coordination)
• Arts administration and cultural project management
• Creative industry roles (visual content creation, illustration, art direction)
• Education and community arts facilitation
• Technical and conservation support roles within arts organisations

Some graduates also choose to undertake further study at postgraduate level to specialise in research, curatorship or teaching.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers a studio-rich environment with specialist facilities—print studios, wood and metal workshops, metal fabrication, ceramics facilities, photographic darkrooms and digital media labs—supporting hands-on learning across diverse media. The programme emphasises contemporary practice, industry engagement and public presentation, with regular exhibitions in on-campus gallery spaces and links to Auckland's vibrant arts scene. Teaching combines experienced studio staff and visiting artists, and the curriculum incorporates Māori and Pacific perspectives alongside international contemporary art discourse, providing a broad and locally relevant grounding in visual arts practice.