Postgraduate Diploma in Visual Arts
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Advance your art studies and career prospects in the arts sector with guided art research, professional exhibition experience, and transferable skills for diverse roles in education, arts, and management.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Develop mastery in professional, technical, and conceptual skills
Students display industry-level competence via original, systematically-developed studio work, exhibited professionally.
Undertake guided art research
Learners complete practical and theory-based art research, including a 2,000-word essay in semester one and a 3,000-word essay in semester two.
Critically engage with theory and contemporary practices
Students analyse and respond to historical and contemporary conventions in their chosen art field within appropriate learning contexts.
What You're Signing Up For
The Postgraduate Diploma in Visual Arts at Otago Polytechnic is a one-year, full-time (or two years part-time) Level 8 qualification for graduates with an undergraduate degree in visual arts or a related discipline. The programme offers intensive, supervised studio practice and academic research centred on students' proposals, culminating in an original exhibition and written work. The diploma develops advanced professional, conceptual, and technical skills for work in creative fields or as preparation for master's level study. Students benefit from access to exceptional workshops, regular critiques, seminar-based learning, and engagement with visiting artists and the wider arts community.
Course Content
- Studio Practice 1A (45 credits)
- Research Methodologies (15 credits)
- Studio Practice 1B (45 credits)
- Contextual Studies (15 credits)
- Seminars, research workshops, and public critique sessions
- Engagement with visiting artists and designers
- Supervised professional exhibition and associated writing
- Access to studio/workshop facilities and technical support
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Visual Arts or equivalent undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline.
Exceptional applicants with appropriate documented professional experience may be considered.
Annotated portfolio, curriculum vitae, and project proposal required.
Selection includes an admissions interview.
For non-standard applicants: Demonstrated ability through a portfolio and associated writings approved by the Postgraduate Admissions Committee.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Visual Arts
Art & Design
Education
Arts Management
Future employment opportunities might be
Practising artist
Curator
Art educator
Art project manager
Art sector roles (public art, design projects, art access work)
Arts administrator
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.