Master of Visual Arts

Visual Arts

A course by

AUT

An interdisciplinary postgraduate degree for creative professionals, focusing on research and practice in visual arts.

NZ$12,903

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 9 Certification (180 Credits)

Study Level

Post Grad

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

City Campus, Auckland

It will take a total of 18 months

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Conduct independent creative practice-based research

Students will design and undertake a major creative or research project in the visual arts, culminating in a substantial thesis.

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Demonstrate advanced understanding of research methods and ethics

Develop critical awareness of research methodologies and ethical considerations relevant to contemporary visual arts practice.

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Engage in critical analysis and discussion of visual art

Participate in group critiques, contextual reviews, and provide constructive feedback on peers’ creative practice.

What You're Signing Up For

The Master of Visual Arts at AUT is a flexible, interdisciplinary research degree designed for visual arts graduates and creative professionals. The programme enables students to tailor their studies around personal art practices and professional interests, with access to dedicated studio spaces, specialist facilities, and ongoing supervisory support. Through engagement in group discussions, critiques, and research, students contribute to contemporary dialogues in the visual arts.

Course Content

  • Practice-based or theoretical thesis (120 points)
  • Research methods and ethics
  • Craft practices
  • Drawing
  • Installation
  • Interactive technologies
  • Lens-based practices
  • Moving image
  • Painting
  • Participatory practices
  • Photography
  • Printmaking
  • Performance
  • Social art practices
  • Sound
  • Sculpture
  • Temporal practices
  • Video
  • Core courses (e.g., Creative Practice Research Design, Contextual Review)
  • Elective courses in visual arts studio and related topics

What you need to know first

Bachelor of Visual Arts or equivalent with a B grade average or higher in Level 7 courses

Applicants without the above may be considered based on a combination of academic and professional experience

Portfolio submission and interview may be required

Submission of research proposal outlining project and area of exploration

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Visual Arts

  • Creative Industries

  • Art and Design

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Professional visual artist

  • Art educator

  • Gallery professional

  • Creative practitioner

  • Researcher