Creative Industries (Visual Arts)

The Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) at the University of Canberra is a comprehensive program designed to develop students' skills, knowledge, and creative potential in the diverse field of visual arts. This degree aims to cultivate innovative thinking and practical expertise, enabling graduates to thrive in Australia's dynamic arts and cultural sectors. The program offers a balanced combination of theoretical studies and hands-on studio practice, providing students with a solid foundation in various visual art disciplines such as painting, sculpture, digital art, printmaking, and installation art. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, workshops, and digital laboratories, facilitating an immersive learning environment that encourages experimentation and artistic exploration.

Throughout the course, students will engage with contemporary art practices and critical theories, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the cultural, social, and political contexts that shape visual art today. The curriculum emphasizes developing personal artistic identity while also understanding the commercial aspects of the arts industry, such as exhibition practices, arts management, and entrepreneurship. Students are encouraged to participate in exhibitions, internships, and collaborative projects, gaining invaluable real-world experience and professional networks. The program also offers pathways for students interested in further academic pursuits, including postgraduate studies in fine arts, curatorial practice, or arts management.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) will be equipped to pursue careers in various fields, including gallery and museum work, public art projects, arts administration, freelance artistic practice, and creative industries consulting. With a focus on innovation, critical thinking, and practical skills, this program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the evolving cultural landscape. The University of Canberra's vibrant artistic community, combined with industry connections, ensures students are well-positioned to succeed in their creative careers or continue their educational journey in advanced study.

Program content description for the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) at the University of Canberra

The Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) at the University of Canberra offers students a comprehensive and innovative educational experience designed to develop their artistic skills, critical thinking, and understanding of contemporary visual arts practices. This program provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, enabling students to explore various mediums such as painting, sculpture, digital media, installation art, and mixed-media techniques.

Throughout the course, students are encouraged to engage deeply with both traditional and emerging art forms, fostering experimentation and creative exploration. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of cultural, social, and historical contexts in shaping visual arts today, encouraging students to develop a nuanced perspective on their work and its impact on society. Core courses cover foundational topics including art history, visual theory, and the principles of design, while advanced modules allow students to specialize in areas such as contemporary art practice, visual storytelling, or new media art.

Hands-on studio work is a critical component of the program, offering students access to state-of-the-art facilities and mentorship from experienced instructors and practicing artists. This practical focus helps students build a strong portfolio of work suited for careers in exhibitions, galleries, public art projects, or independent art practice. In addition, the program highlights professional development skills, including exhibition planning, curation, arts management, and digital marketing—preparing graduates for both creative careers and entrepreneurial ventures within the arts sector.

Collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches are also strongly encouraged across courses, with opportunities for students to work on real-world projects, engage with local art communities, and participate in exhibitions and showcases hosted by the university. The program fosters a vibrant creative environment that supports artistic innovation and personal growth, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the visual arts landscape.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) are well-prepared for diverse career paths, including professional artist, gallery manager, arts administrator, curator, art educator, or pursuing further postgraduate study. The university’s strong links with local, national, and international arts organizations provide valuable networking opportunities and pathways into the professional arts community. By the end of the program, students will have developed a cohesive portfolio demonstrating their artistic development and readiness to engage with the creative industries in dynamic and meaningful ways.

Entry to the program relies on an entry position. A position can be accomplished by means of a year 1 2 ATAR, other Australian eligibility, work experience, or an overseas qualification.

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 Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) at the University of Canberra offers a diverse range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Domestic students can access various government-funded schemes, including FEE-HELP, a loan program that assists eligible students in paying tuition fees. FEE-HELP allows students to defer payment and settle their tuition debt through their income after graduation, making higher education more accessible and affordable. International students are required to pay tuition fees upfront or through approved payment plans, with the university providing detailed financial information and guidance to assist in planning their finances.

In addition to government assistance, the university offers scholarships and bursaries tailored to students pursuing degrees in creative arts and industries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, creative talent, or financial need, and they provide partial or full tuition fee coverage. Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships early, as competition is often fierce, and specific eligibility criteria may apply.

The university also provides payment plans that allow students to spread their tuition fees over manageable installments, reducing the financial burden and facilitating easier cash flow management. These plans are flexible and designed to accommodate students' varying financial circumstances. Moreover, students can seek financial advice and planning services from the university's student support center to better understand their options and develop personal budgets aligned with their study costs.

Living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and teaching materials are additional costs that students must consider. While these are not covered by university financing programs, the university offers resources and guidance on budgeting, part-time employment opportunities, and financial literacy to help students manage their overall financial situation effectively.

The university also partners with external financial institutions and scholarship providers to facilitate access to financial products and opportunities for students in creative industries. For instance, some students may benefit from student credit schemes or creative industry grants aimed at supporting emerging artists and designers.

Overall, the financing landscape for students enrolled in the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) is designed to be comprehensive and flexible, aiming to mitigate financial barriers and enable students to focus on their educational and creative development. Students are encouraged to explore all available options early in their academic journey to maximize financial support and minimize financial stress during their studies.

The Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) at the University of Canberra offers students a comprehensive education in the field of visual arts within a broader creative industries context. The program is designed to foster artistic skills, critical thinking, and innovative practices, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the creative sector. Students engage in a variety of studio-based projects, conceptual explorations, and practical applications that cultivate their artistic abilities and understanding of contemporary visual arts. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional techniques and innovative digital media, ensuring graduates are well-versed in current trends, technologies, and methodologies relevant to the visual arts industry. Throughout the course, students have opportunities to develop their personal artistic voice, build a professional portfolio, and gain insights into the art world through industry placements, exhibitions, and collaborations with local and international artists. The program also underscores the importance of understanding the business side of the arts, such as marketing, entrepreneurship, and curatorial practices, enabling students to navigate a range of career paths post-graduation. Facilities at the University of Canberra include modern studios, digital labs, and exhibition spaces that support hands-on learning and creative experimentation. The program encourages innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement, aligning with the university’s mission to produce graduates who are creative, adaptable, and socially aware. Graduates of the Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Arts) are equipped to pursue careers in fine arts, gallery and museum curation, arts administration, digital media, and entrepreneurship in the creative sector. They may also choose to further their education through postgraduate studies or engage in self-directed artistic projects and exhibitions. The University of Canberra’s strong industry connections and support services help students transition successfully into the professional arts environment, making this program an ideal choice for aspiring visual artists committed to making an impact in the contemporary art world.