The Bachelor of Creative Practice is New Zealand’s first project-based creative degree focused on developing practical, professional, and interdisciplinary creative skills. Students engage in real-world projects while exploring multiple creative disciplines before developing their own specialisation pathways.

Key Reasons International Students Choose This Programme

• Project-based learning with real-world industry collaboration
• Strong focus on creativity, innovation, and professional practice
• Opportunity to explore multiple creative disciplines
• Hands-on studio learning and workshop access
• Industry-standard software and equipment training
• Strong links with New Zealand creative communities
• Flexible creative pathways across visual arts and design
• Public exhibitions, performances, screenings, and internships
• Portfolio and professional practice development
• Small class sizes with personalised mentoring

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

The programme progressively develops technical, conceptual, and professional creative skills across three years.

Year One – Foundations (Level 5)

The first year focuses on foundational creative skills and introduces students to multiple creative media areas.

Visual Arts & Design Topics

Students may study:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Drawing
• Painting (acrylic and oils)
• Printmaking
• Sculpture
• Ceramics
• Art and Design History
• Creative Processes
• Research Methods
• Idea Generation

Students also explore:

• Professional practice
• Concept development
• Technical studio skills
• Creative experimentation

Year Two – Development (Level 6)

The second year becomes increasingly self-directed and industry-oriented.

Students develop:

• Advanced studio practice
• Creative project management
• Marketing and business skills
• Legal and ethical understanding
• Contemporary creative industry awareness
• Independent project work
• Professional communication

Year Three – Professional Creative Practice (Level 7)

The final year focuses heavily on:

• Self-directed creative projects
• Industry internships
• Public exhibitions and showcases
• Portfolio development
• Advanced professional practice
• Creative leadership
• Research-led creative work

Students complete:

• Major creative projects
• Internship or industry-based learning opportunities
• Public exhibitions/performance/showcase presentations

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students may explore pathways including:

• Visual Arts
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Printmaking
• Painting
• Sculpture
• Ceramics
• Fashion
• Screen Production
• Music Production
• Photography
• Multimedia Design
• Advertising & Branding
• Digital Design

Software & Creative Tools Used

Students gain practical experience using industry-standard creative software including:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Adobe Premiere Pro
• Adobe After Effects
• Ableton Live
• Pro Tools

Students may also use:

• Camera equipment
• Sound and lighting equipment
• Printmaking and sculpture workshops
• Ceramics studios
• Digital production facilities

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers including:

Visual Arts Careers

• Painter
• Sculptor
• Illustrator
• Printmaker
• Multimedia Artist
• Photographer
• Ceramic Artist

Design Careers

• Graphic Designer
• Web Designer
• Brand Designer
• Advertising Designer
• Animation Designer
• Spatial Designer

Creative Industries Careers

• Curator
• Creative Producer
• Creative Entrepreneur
• Gallery Assistant
• Arts Educator
• Community Arts Facilitator

Graduates may also progress into:

• Honours programmes
• Master’s degrees
• Independent creative practice

Highlights of the Programme

New Zealand’s First Project-Based Creative Degree

The programme focuses heavily on practical creative work and industry-style projects instead of traditional lecture-only teaching.

Interdisciplinary Learning

Students can move across multiple creative disciplines while developing a personalised creative identity.

Public Showcases & Exhibitions

Students present their work through exhibitions, performances, screenings, and fashion showcases.

Industry Connections

EIT maintains strong links with local and national creative industries, offering internship and collaborative project opportunities.

Strong Student Support

International students benefit from:

• International student advisors
• Academic learning support
• Wellbeing support
• Disability support services
• M?ori and Pasifika support services

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

Current Updates

• EIT is currently enrolling students for 2026 intakes
• Creative programmes continue to emphasise project-based learning and industry collaboration
• Portfolio-based admission remains compulsory for most creative applicants

Important Requirements

Students should prepare:

• Digital creative portfolio
• Reliable laptop/device
• Studio materials and supplies
• Strong self-management skills
• Willingness to participate in collaborative creative projects

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand Student Visa
• Offer of Place from EIT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency evidence
• Valid passport

Final Summary

The Eastern Institute of Technology Bachelor of Creative Practice is an innovative, project-based Level 7 degree designed for students wanting careers in visual arts, design, and wider creative industries.

The programme is especially suitable for international students seeking:

• Hands-on studio learning
• Flexible creative pathways
• Strong portfolio development
• Real-world industry projects
• Public exhibitions and internships
• Interdisciplinary creative practice