Visual arts (Double degree)

The Monash University Double Degree in Visual Arts offers students a comprehensive and immersive educational experience, combining rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical artistic skills. This innovative program is designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in the visual arts sector, equipping them with the creative, technical, and critical skills necessary to excel in diverse artistic disciplines. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to undertake in-depth studies in painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, and other contemporary art practices, while also gaining expertise in art history, theory, and critique. The program emphasizes the development of individual artistic voices within a supportive academic environment, encouraging innovative experimentation and critical reflection. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and didactic resources, as well as mentorship from distinguished faculty members who are active practitioners in their fields. The double degree structure allows students to earn two qualifications simultaneously, broadening their professional prospects and interdisciplinary understanding. Upon graduation, students will be well-equipped to pursue careers as professional artists, curators, arts administrators, or to continue their studies at postgraduate levels. The program also fosters connections with local and international art communities through exhibitions, internships, and collaborative projects. Emphasizing both creative practice and critical engagement, the Monash University Double Degree in Visual Arts aims to cultivate innovative thinkers capable of making meaningful contributions to contemporary art and society.

You will develop a critical awareness and understanding of artwork in its production, interpretation and presentation, and a sound knowledge of the theories and practices required for talented people to work professionally in and with the visual arts. In studio classes you will investigate the broader function of the visual arts in society today, learn from active visualart practitioners and develop your own skills and creativity. These classes rotate through a range of workshops including painting, printmaking, photography and sculpture. Studio units may be interdisciplinary, or focus on a particular medium or mode of practice.

You will be exposed to a range of studio and theoretical frameworks and discipline areas as a basis for individual as well as collaborative cultural research and production. You will engage with professional and research practices that apply the skills learnt in the studio units to a diverse range of public contexts. 

Year 1

• Visual practices 1
• Drawing 1
• Introduction to visual culture
• companion degree
• Introduction to art and design health and safety
• Visual practices 2
• Research practices
• Modernism and the avant-garde 

Year 2

• Professional practice
• Workshop elective in drawing, film, glass, jewellery, painting, photography, printmaking or sculpture
• International art 1945-2000
• companion degree
• Research practices advanced
• Electives

Year 3

• Professional practice advanced
• Workshop elective in drawing, film, glass, jewellery, painting, photography, printmaking or sculpture
• companion degree
• Visual practices 3
• Art history and theory selective
• Electives

Year 4

• companion degree

Applicants must also meet the English language requirements. Your application must include one original test:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System - Academic)
• TOEFL (American Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
• Cambridge English

Secondary school qualifications

• Satisfactory completion of final year secondary school, or equivalent, including English
• Satisfactory completion of the International Baccalaureate (IB), including English
• Satisfactory completion of the New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), including English
• Completion of the Gaokao (for minimum scores, see Gaokao entry requirements)

Applicants with complete or incomplete overseas tertiary qualifications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Australian government scholarships for international students

The Australia Awards are prestigious international scholarships and fellowships funded by the Australian Government. They offer the next generation of global leaders the opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development in Australia.

The scholarships and fellowships are administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), and the Department of Education.

Australia Awards scholarships

• Contribute to the long-term objectives of developing countries to promote growth and stability.
• Open to students from participating countries.
• For full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study.

Australia Awards Leadership Program

• Offers leadership learning and development opportunities.
• Open to current and future leaders in academic, business, government and non-government services.
• For masters and doctoral degrees only.

Australia Awards Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships

• Internationally competitive, merit-based scholarships for study, research and professional development.
• Options of undergraduate and postgraduate, postdoctoral research,  and professional development opportunities.

The Visual Arts (Double Degree) program at Monash University offers students a comprehensive education in the creative and practical aspects of visual arts, combining rigorous academic coursework with hands-on studio experience. Designed for students seeking a broad and in-depth understanding of art production, theory, history, and contemporary practices, this program enables graduates to develop a versatile skill set suitable for various careers in the arts sector. The curriculum typically includes core subjects in drawing, painting, sculpture, digital arts, and new media, alongside specialized electives that reflect the evolving landscape of visual arts. Students are encouraged to explore diverse media, develop their individual artistic voice, and engage critically with contemporary art practices and dialogues.

One of the distinguishing features of this double degree is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, often integrating elements of design, multimedia, and technological innovation. The program may also include opportunities for internships, exhibitions, and collaborative projects that connect students with professional artists, galleries, and cultural institutions. Such experiences are intended to foster practical skills, professional networks, and a deeper understanding of the art industry. Additionally, with access to Monash’s state-of-the-art facilities, students can experiment with emerging technologies like virtual reality, 3D printing, and digital fabrication, preparing them for diverse roles in the creative economy.

Graduates from the Visual Arts (Double Degree) program are equipped to pursue careers as professional artists, curators, gallery managers, arts administrators, or educators. Furthermore, the program's emphasis on critical thinking, visual literacy, and innovative practice ensures that students are well-prepared for further postgraduate studies or entrepreneurial endeavors in the arts sector. The program typically spans across several years, combining Bachelor’s and Master’s level coursework, thereby providing a seamless pathway from undergraduate to advanced professional qualifications. Admission requirements generally include a portfolio submission and academic prerequisites, and the program is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, studio practice, and independent study. Overall, the Visual Arts (Double Degree) at Monash University aims to cultivate creative, reflective, and skilled artists capable of contributing meaningfully to the vibrant arts community locally and globally.