New Zealand Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4)
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Develop foundational skills in art and design, build a portfolio for future study, and prepare for junior roles in creative industries.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin Campus, Dunedin
It will take a total of 17 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Apply technical and presentation skills
Demonstrate a range of technical skills and technologies to produce and present arts, craft, or design creative work.
Use professional creative processes
Utilize practices of discovery, conceptualisation, review, iteration, prototyping and presentation to deliver design solutions to different project briefs.
Evaluate creative work
Apply knowledge of the elements and principles of arts, crafts or design to evaluate the quality of creative outcomes.
What You're Signing Up For
This 17-week, full-time NZQA Level 4 certificate at Otago Polytechnic introduces students to the world of art and design. You will develop technical and conceptual skills in drawing, illustration, sculpture, art and design history, creative methodologies, and complete a studio project. The program builds the portfolio and skills necessary to progress into degree-level study in design, visual arts, architecture, or to begin working in a junior creative role.
Course Content
- Art and Design History: Introduction to local and international art and design, historical principles, contexts, and conventions.
- Creative Methodology: Develop technical and conceptual creative skills, apply tools, techniques and processes to art and design briefs.
- Visual Arts: Work in 2D and 3D forms using various visual art mediums.
- Studio Project: Integrate and apply creative skills through a learner-led capstone project.
What you need to know first
Passion for design and art
Ability to communicate ideas
Interest in people and working with others
Portfolio of creative work (10-12 examples, variety of techniques and interests)
May require interview
Open entry for domestic students; international students assessed individually for secondary school equivalence
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Creative Industries
Arts
Design
Future employment opportunities might be
Junior role in creative workplaces
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.