Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This bachelor degree combines hands-on studio practice with theoretical study and professional development. Core study areas include drawing and observational practice, painting, sculpture and 3D making, photography and digital media, printmaking, time-based media, and contemporary design disciplines such as graphic communication, typography and visual communication.

Students also study contextual units that cover art history, contemporary theory, curatorial studies and critical writing, along with modules in professional practice that address portfolio development, exhibition-making, arts entrepreneurship and project management. The course is structured to progress from foundation studios in the early years through to advanced, self-directed studio projects and a major capstone exhibition or project in the final year.

• Foundation studios: drawing, colour, material processes
• Specialist studios: painting, sculpture, photography, print, time-based media
• Design principles: visual communication, typography, digital design workflows
• Context and theory: art history, contemporary practice, curatorial studies
• Professional practice: portfolio, exhibition curation, industry engagement
• Capstone: major project or final-year exhibition

Entry requirements

Admission is usually based on successful completion of secondary school or an equivalent qualification. Applicants are often required to submit a folio or portfolio of recent creative work; some campuses may invite applicants to an interview or portfolio review. ACU also admits mature-age students and provides pathways from vocational education and training and bridging programs.

Domestic applicants should meet the university's general entrance criteria; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or qualification. Specific campuses or streams may have additional requirements, so prospective students should check the ACU course page or contact admissions for tailored guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates from this program enter a wide range of creative and cultural roles. Typical career outcomes include working as practising visual artists, illustrators, graphic designers, photographers, gallery and exhibition technicians, curators, arts administrators, educators in community or school settings, and makers or product designers. Skills gained in the degree—such as visual problem solving, project management, professional presentation and digital competencies—are also relevant to roles in marketing, user experience and creative industries entrepreneurship.

The degree emphasises real-world practice and professional development to help graduates build portfolios, engage with industry networks, and pursue further study such as honours, postgraduate coursework or research degrees.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU offers a practice-focused visual arts and design program with small studio classes, access to specialist workshops and equipment, and opportunities to exhibit work in on-campus and public galleries. The university emphasises ethical and community-engaged practice, supporting students to consider social and cultural responsibilities in their creative work.

Students benefit from supportive teaching staff with professional practice experience, industry links for placements and collaborative projects, and pathways to postgraduate study. ACU’s inclusive campus environment and student support services help students balance creative development with academic and professional goals.