Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This practice-focused master's combines studio-based learning with critical theory and research training. You will develop a sustained body of work in your chosen medium or across disciplines, supported by seminars, workshops and individual supervision. Typical study areas include painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, moving image, installation, performance, expanded media and digital/new media art.

• Studio Practice and Development — sustained practical work under individual supervision, experimentation with materials and processes, and development of a coherent studio programme.
• Contemporary Art Theory and Criticism — critical frameworks, art histories, curatorial discourse and contemporary critical debates that inform practice.
• Research Methods for Creative Practice — methodologies for practice-led research, documentation, reflective writing and ethical considerations in arts research.
• Curatorial and Exhibition Practice — strategies for developing exhibitions, public engagement, installation logistics and collaboration with galleries and community partners.
• Professional Practice — portfolio development, arts management, grant applications, networking and strategies for sustaining a career in the arts.
• Electives and Cross-Disciplinary Modules — options that may include digital media, animation, sound, design collaboration, or community arts projects.
• Major Project / Thesis — a culminating project usually presented as a public exhibition, installation, performance series or a written thesis accompanied by practice documentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate degree in visual arts, fine art, design or a closely related discipline, or to demonstrate equivalent professional studio experience. Entry typically requires a portfolio of recent work, a curriculum vitae, an artist statement or research proposal outlining intended practice and objectives, and academic references. International applicants must meet the university's English language entry standards or provide recognised evidence of English proficiency. Shortlisted applicants may be interviewed or asked to provide further documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of creative and cultural roles. Common career outcomes include independent exhibiting artist, curator, gallery or museum professional, arts educator, arts manager, creative director, or specialist roles in digital and media arts. The programme also positions graduates for further academic research (PhD) and for work with cultural organisations, public art projects, community arts initiatives, publishing and creative entrepreneurship.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

Auckland University of Technology offers an art programme within a contemporary, industry-connected university located in New Zealand's largest city. Students benefit from well-equipped studios, digital media labs, print and fabrication facilities, and access to exhibition spaces where final projects can be publicly presented. The school emphasises professional pathways, interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with Auckland's vibrant arts sector, galleries and cultural institutions. Staff combine active professional and research profiles with supervision across media, and the programme supports partnerships, residencies and opportunities to present work locally and internationally.