Otago Polytechnic is a government-accredited tertiary education provider based in Dunedin, New Zealand, known for its practical, hands-on approach to creative and professional education. The Dunedin School of Art, part of Otago Polytechnic, is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most respected art schools, offering postgraduate pathways that combine studio practice and research.

 

Why Study This Programme?

The Postgraduate Certificate in Visual Arts is ideal if you want to:

• Experience postgraduate-level art study without committing to a full diploma or master’s degree.

• Develop advanced studio practice and research skills.

• Build a body of critically engaged work supported by theoretical understanding and methodology.

• Use it as a stepping stone into further postgraduate study such as the Postgraduate Diploma in Visual Arts or Master of Visual Arts.

 

Studio Practice 1A

• Focuses on development of your own studio work, guided by supervisors.

• You create a critical body of visual art practice that integrates concept and craft.

Research Methodologies

• A postgraduate essay (approx. 2,000 words) focusing on research methodology relevant to your creative work.

• Strengthens your theoretical and contextual understanding at the postgraduate level.

 

Highlights & Special Features

• Professional Art Practice Integration – Connect studio work with research and theory at an advanced level.
• Studio Space & Facilities – Access workshop equipment and studios at the Dunedin School of Art.
• Supervision & Peer Learning – Individual supervision plus seminars and group critiques refine your practice and research.
• Bridge to Further Study – Successful completion allows you to progress into the Postgraduate Diploma in Visual Arts or, with strong results, potentially the Master of Visual Arts.

 

Career Outcomes

A postgraduate certificate in visual arts equips you with:

• Critical art research skills

• Professional creative practice

• Conceptual thinking

• Portfolio development

Typical career paths include:

• Practising visual artist
• Arts administrator or educator
• Curatorial assistant or gallery professional
• Arts researcher or historian
• Freelance creative practitioner

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

International students planning to study full-time in New Zealand must apply for a Student Visa before they travel. Typical requirements include:

• A valid Offer of Place from Otago Polytechnic
• Proof of sufficient funds (tuition, living expenses)
• Health/medical insurance
• Evidence of English proficiency (if required)
• Passport valid for the duration of study