Fine Art

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Practice at The University of Auckland is a comprehensive program designed for students passionate about developing their creative skills and exploring diverse artistic disciplines. This degree offers a unique blend of practical studio work, theoretical studies, and professional development, allowing students to cultivate their individual artistic voice while gaining essential skills for a successful career in the arts. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative artworks, and critical reflection, supported by experienced faculty members who are practicing artists and researchers. The curriculum covers various mediums, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital media, encouraging experimentation and innovation. Students participate in exhibitions, internships, and community-based projects, which provide valuable real-world experience and opportunities to showcase their work. The program emphasizes critical thinking, conceptual development, and technical proficiency, enabling graduates to transition seamlessly into professional artistic environments, education, curatorial practices, or further postgraduate studies. State-of-the-art facilities, dedicated studios, and access to the university's extensive networks across the arts community foster a dynamic learning environment. With a focus on individual growth and artistic exploration, the Bachelor of Fine Arts prepares students to become thoughtful, skilled, and socially engaged artists capable of contributing meaningfully to the cultural landscape locally and internationally.

You will work under supervision to produce a substantial thesis representing original research into an approved topic that contributes significantly to knowledge and understanding or application of knowledge.

A doctoral degree is normally carried out over a minimum of 3 full-time years, with candidates preparing a thesis on the conduct and results of their research.

The doctorate is directed by an appointed supervisor and an academic committee and usually takes 3 years of full-time study. Your thesis is then assessed by a panel of examiners (including at least two external to the University) appointed by the University’s Senate. In most cases, this is followed by an oral examination of the thesis and your knowledge in the area before the degree is awarded.

To be eligible for this programme you need to have completed a Master of Fine Arts by research (as distinct from a coursework programme) or equivalent, and have achieved to an appropriate standard. 

English language requirements 

• IELTS (Academic): Overall score of 6.5 and all bands 6.0 or better
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT): Overall score of 90 plus a written score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL: Overall score of 575 plus Essay (TWE) of 4.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) and Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): Overall score of 176 and all bands 169 or better
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: Overall score of 58 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50. 
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB): 85

You will also need to have the following information to hand, including some documents in electronic format ready for uploading:

• your IELTS, TOEFL and TWE test scores if you have taken such tests within the last two years
• relevant academic reports – GPA B+
• two letters of academic recommendation from your previous professors
• curriculum vitae and/or resume (optional)
• Statement of Research Intent – you'll need to write a 1000-word summary of your intended topic of interest for doctoral study, including your reasons for choosing this topic and an explanation of what you hope to achieve during your studies at The University of Auckland

There are several types of postgraduate scholarships: 

• University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarships
• Carol Ada Cliff Doctoral Scholarship 
• Anne Reid Memorial Trust Scholarship
• The Snickel Lane Urban Art Award

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Art at The University of Auckland offers students a comprehensive and immersive experience in the visual arts, emphasizing both practical skills and critical thinking. This programme is designed for individuals passionate about developing their artistic talents and engaging with contemporary issues through creative expression. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital arts, and installation art, enabling them to discover their preferred mediums and develop a personal artistic voice.

The programme combines studio practice with theoretical courses, fostering an environment where students can critically analyze their own work and that of others within broader cultural and historical contexts. Throughout their studies, students participate in exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations that enhance their professional development and networking skills. The BFA in Fine Art encourages experimentation and innovation, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support diverse artistic practices.

Students also benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty members, many of whom are active practitioners and exhibiting artists, offering valuable insights into both the artistic process and the professional art world. The curriculum includes opportunities for community engagement and public art projects, emphasizing the role of art in society. Graduates of the programme are equipped with the skills necessary for careers in fine art, arts education, curatorial work, and other related fields, with many going on to exhibit their work nationally and internationally. The University of Auckland’s vibrant arts community and connections to galleries, museums, and cultural institutions provide excellent pathways for emerging artists to advance their careers.