Master of Visual Arts
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Deep dive into practical and theory-based research in visual arts. Produce original work and critical research, culminating in a public exhibition and extended essay.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Master advanced professional, conceptual and technical skills
Develop mastery of skills relevant to your chosen visual arts field through intensive studio and theory work.
Produce and present original research and art
Independently conceptualise, create, and exhibit a cohesive body of work informed by critical research and reflective practice.
Develop critical research and writing skills
Produce a conceptual research paper and an extended essay contextualising your work within historical and contemporary paradigms.
What You're Signing Up For
Extend your art practice through this advanced master's programme that combines practical and theory-based research. In semester one, you will develop studio work, deliver a seminar paper, and write an essay for feedback. Semester two builds on this foundation with the production of an original exhibition and a 7,500-word essay. You will benefit from unique workshop facilities, professional supervision, and active engagement with Dunedin’s arts community. The programme equips you for higher-level roles in the arts sector, including education, design, curation, and arts management.
Course Content
- Studio Practice 2A: development of studio work based on an individual proposal.
- Art Theory Part 1: critical essay and seminar presentation.
- Studio Practice 2B: production of independently developed, original exhibition.
- Art Theory Part 2: extended 7,500-word essay.
- Participation in public seminars and postgraduate workshops.
- Individual research and annotated portfolio development.
- Regular studio critiques and presentations.
- Supervision from studio and theory advisors.
- Engagement with visiting artists and designers.
- Access to advanced studio facilities.
- Exploration of interdisciplinary practice (across visual arts and design specialisations).
What you need to know first
A postgraduate visual arts qualification with minimum 60 credits at Level 8 and minimum grade B (70%) or higher.
Submission of annotated portfolio, CV, and research project proposal.
Selection interview.
Applicants without the specified qualification must demonstrate appropriate ability through portfolio and writings.
International students are individually assessed for readiness.
English language requirements: NZ University Entrance OR overall Academic IELTS 6.5 (no band lower than 6.0), or acceptable alternatives.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Arts
Education
Design
Curation
Arts Management
Future employment opportunities might be
Professional visual artist
Arts educator
Arts manager
Curator or gallery professional
Editorial roles
Design sector employment
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.