Bachelor of Design (Applied Visual Art)
Prepare yourself for independent art practice in a studio environment.
This degree will enable you to become an independent art practitioner, photographer or designer. You’ll learn how to frame and develop creative ideas through hands-on interaction with a range of media, and you’ll gain professional and business skills for self-employment.
Core skills taught include design strategies, drawing, printmaking, painting, photography, and sculpture. In addition, you’ll choose three courses from a range of electives which will enable you to develop complementary skills in particular areas of interest.
As well as studio courses, you’ll complete a group of core courses in academic subjects. These include both professional and contextual studies, which will equip you with developed communication skills, a background in the history and sociology of creative practices, insights into contemporary professional ethics and some business skills.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved* subjects and:
- Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing,
- Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
OR a qualification on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework at Level 4 or above in a related discipline.
Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same
* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Portfolio demonstrating art/design work
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Programme selection committees will ensure that the selection process is consistent across the five specialisations of the degree
These committees review applications received to determine which may be accepted.
The committees also establish criteria and a marking schedule by which all candidates are assessed
The selection committees are made up of tutors from the specialisations
Selection is designed to assess potential for a successful career in a design-related industry and is based on:
- portfolio material
Those who are not initially accepted but who meet the standard are waitlisted in order of ranking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
You will be well prepared to work within the wide and dynamic creative industries, either in companies or independently as a creative practitioner, craft cooperative designer, curator, gallery assistant, theatre/film/TV designer.
Our graduates work across areas like jewellery, ceramics, sculpture, illustration, fabric design and printing. They also take on design studio roles in a range of related industries including galleries, museums and theatres, or in art departments for film and television productions.
Study pathways
Graduates may choose to enrol in a wide range of programmes including postgraduate study including:
- Masters of Creative Practice (CH4077)
- Postgrad Diploma in Creative Practice (CH4078)
- PGDipFA (Massey)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Art & Design (AUT)
Recommended school subjects
- Design
- Photography
- Art
- Graphics
- English or English-rich subjects
Bachelor of Design (Applied Visual Art)
Prepare yourself for independent art practice in a studio environment.
Information | |
---|---|
Type | Degree |
Code | CH3756 |
Next Starts | February 2025 |
May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
International application close date | Please enquire |
Credits | 360 |
Level | 7 |
Additional Equipment/Fees | $1000 per year |
May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
Reference | CH3756-APPV |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
Portfolio demonstrating art/design work
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- Bach Design Additional Requirements Form PDF, 91 KB
- Bach Design Portfolio information PDF, 90 KB
Area of Interest
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