Art

This project-based Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research degree will provide the framework, the focus and the discipline necessary to conduct speculative inquiry in the field of art.

The PhD offers a rigorous, supportive and dynamic environment where the investigation of ideas and material practice pertinent to artistic research informs the production of art. Central to the program is a balance between studio practice and the conceptual and theoretical concerns that underpin artistic research.

You may work with installation, sculpture, ceramics, hybrid and spatial practices, sound, performance, media arts, video, painting, printmaking, drawing, photography, gold-and silversmithing and object based practice.

You will consider the artistic, cultural and social position of your research and draw upon trans-disciplinary practices and enquiries.

You will undertake a major project that culminates in an exhibition, performance or presentation of work for assessment, accompanied by an exegesis that includes visual and sonic documentation of the creative research.

To graduate you must complete the following:

If you are a full-time candidate you must enrol in exactly 48 credit points in total for each semester. If you are a part-time candidate you must enrol in exactly 24 credit points in total for each semester.

All courses listed may not be available each semester.

Coursework Courses

Complete the following One (1) Course:

ANDIn consultation with your supervisory team, you may also elect to take either or both of the following:

AND

Project Courses

The remaining allocation of credit points for each semester should be made up of the following Courses:

Applicants for doctor of philosophy programs must have completed one of the following from a recognised higher education institution:

• a masters by research degree;

or

• a masters by coursework degree which includes research courses or a research project with a duration of at least 25% of a full-time (or equivalent part-time) academic year and an overall distinction average;

or

• a four year bachelor honours degree (with a minimum H2A achieved across the four years); 

or

• a three year bachelor degree and a one year bachelor honours degree program (with a minimum H2A achieved in the honours year); 

or

• another award deemed to be equivalent in character and standard to the above degrees.

Alternatively applicants may:

• provide evidence of appropriate academic qualifications and experience that satisfies the Dean of the School of Graduate Research or nominee that the applicant has developed knowledge of the field of study or cognate field and the potential for research sufficient to undertake the proposed program;

or

• have current candidature for an RMIT master by research program approved for transfer to a doctor of philosophy program through the process prescribed in the RMIT Higher Degree by Research policies and procedures.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in Art programs, designed to make education accessible and affordable. International students have the opportunity to apply for scholarships specific to arts and design disciplines, which are awarded based on merit and portfolio submissions. Additionally, RMIT participates in various government-funded bursary schemes and grants that can assist students in covering tuition fees and living expenses. Domestic students can access Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which substantially reduce tuition costs through government subsidies, although eligibility criteria apply. For those not eligible for CSP, full fee-paying options are available, with payment plans allowing students to split tuition fees into manageable installments over the semester. RMIT also provides guidance on eligibility for Higher Education Loans Program (HELP), which enables eligible Australian students to defer tuition payments through Commonwealth government loans, repaid via taxation once income exceeds a certain threshold. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external scholarships from arts foundations, cultural organizations, and industry partners that support emerging artists and designers. The university's financial advisory services assist students in planning their finances, applying for financial aid, and understanding the full scope of tuition costs, additional fees, and potential funding sources. RMIT's commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment includes dedicated support for students facing financial hardship, offering emergency assistance and short-term loans. Overall, the financing options for RMIT's Art programs aim to reduce financial barriers, providing students with the necessary resources to focus on their creative pursuits and academic success.

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Art at RMIT University is a comprehensive program designed to develop students' skills and knowledge in various aspects of visual arts and creative practice. This program offers a combination of theoretical and practical coursework that explores different artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, installation, digital media, and emerging forms of artistic expression. Students are encouraged to engage critically with contemporary art practices and to develop their own creative voices through sustained studio work, research, and exhibitions.

Throughout the course, students gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized studios, workshops, and digital labs, enabling them to experiment with diverse media and techniques. The curriculum emphasizes both individual artistic development and understanding of the historical, cultural, and social contexts of art. Participants have opportunities for internships, collaborations, and exhibitions, fostering professional growth and industry engagement. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in fine art, arts management, curation, education, and further academic research.

The Art Honours program also includes a significant research component, where students undertake an independent project under supervision. This research aims to deepen their analytical abilities and contribute original ideas to the field of contemporary art. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue postgraduate studies or enter the creative industry with a solid foundation of practical skills and theoretical knowledge. Overall, RMIT's Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Art provides a dynamic environment for aspiring artists to explore their potential, develop critical insights, and participate actively in the vibrant art community.