The Diploma in Visual Arts Ttohu mo te Toi Ataata at AUT is a Level 5 qualification designed for students who want to develop practical visual arts skills and build a pathway into higher-level visual arts study.

The diploma introduces students to:

• Contemporary visual arts practice
• Studio-based creative learning
• Visual experimentation
• Artistic techniques and processes
• Critical and conceptual thinking
• Professional creative development

The programme is ideal for:

• Emerging artists
• Students building academic confidence
• Learners wanting a pathway into a visual arts degree
• International students seeking studio-based creative education
• Students exploring multiple art practices before specialising

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Practical studio-based visual arts learning
• Direct pathway into AUT’s Bachelor of Visual Arts
• Study the same first-year courses as degree students
• Access to professional art studios and creative facilities
• Supportive and collaborative creative environment
• Opportunities to experiment with multiple artistic disciplines
• Portfolio and exhibition development opportunities
• Integration of Maori and Indigenous creative perspectives
• Hands-on creative and conceptual development

Programme Structure

The diploma includes:

• Core visual arts courses
• Studio practice
• Elective creative courses
• Collaborative learning projects

Compulsory Courses

Students complete:

• ARTS500 Visual Arts Studio Practice
• ARTS501 Critical and Contextual Studies
• DIGD507 Mahitahi | Collaborative Practices

Studio Practice Options

Students choose one practice area:

Available Practice Areas

• Painting, Printmaking and Drawing Practice
• Photography, Sculpture and Moving-image Practice

Subjects / Topics Offered

Depending on chosen practice areas and electives, students may study:

• Contemporary visual arts
• Painting and drawing
• Printmaking techniques
• Photography
• Sculpture
• Moving-image and video
• Installation practice
• Digital media arts
• Creative research
• Visual storytelling
• Art theory and critique
• Collaborative creative practice

Disciplines / Specialisations Covered

The programme introduces students to diverse visual arts disciplines including:

• Painting
• Printmaking
• Drawing
• Photography
• Sculpture
• Moving-image
• Installation Art
• Experimental Media
• Digital Arts

Pathway Opportunities

Progression into Bachelor of Visual Arts

One of the main advantages of this diploma is direct progression into AUT’s Bachelor of Visual Arts.

Successful students may:

• Cross-credit diploma courses
• Progress directly into Year 2 of the Bachelor of Visual Arts

Highlights of the Programme

• Level 5 visual arts qualification
• Direct pathway into Bachelor of Visual Arts
• Practical studio-based creative learning
• Strong portfolio and exhibition preparation
• Access to professional art-making facilities
• Collaborative studio culture
• Exposure to traditional and contemporary media
• Flexible creative exploration opportunities
• Supportive learning environment for emerging artists

Career Outcomes

The diploma mainly serves as a pathway into advanced study, but students also gain practical creative skills useful for creative industries.

Skills Developed

• Visual communication
• Creative experimentation
• Artistic techniques
• Critical thinking
• Portfolio development
• Digital media skills
• Collaborative practice

Future Career Pathways

After progressing into higher-level study, graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Contemporary Artist
• Photographer
• Sculptor
• Illustrator
• Installation Artist
• Multimedia Artist
• Gallery Assistant
• Creative Producer
• Arts Administrator

Graduates may work across:

• Galleries
• Museums
• Creative studios
• Media organisations
• Community arts projects
• Digital creative industries

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• Valid New Zealand student visa
• Offer of Place from AUT
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Evidence of sufficient living funds
• Valid passport
• Medical and travel insurance
• English language proficiency proof

Latest Updates / Important Notes

Flexible Creative Exploration

The diploma is designed to help students:

• Explore multiple art practices
• Build academic confidence
• Develop strong portfolios
• Transition smoothly into degree-level visual arts study

Strong Studio & Facility Access

Students and graduates frequently mention AUT’s:

• Collaborative creative environment
• Studio culture
• Practical assignments
• Exhibition opportunities
• Accessible lecturers and tutors

Some students also highlight access to:

• Photography labs
• Printmaking workshops
• Sculpture facilities
• Digital editing suites

Contemporary & Interdisciplinary Practice

AUT’s visual arts learning environment increasingly integrates:

• Moving-image
• Digital arts
• Interactive media
• Experimental practices
• Socially engaged creative work

Programme Highlights

•  Level 5 contemporary visual arts qualification
• Direct pathway into Bachelor of Visual Arts
• Studio-based practical learning
• Strong portfolio-building opportunities
• Access to specialist creative facilities
• Traditional and digital art practice exposure
• Collaborative and supportive studio environment
• Contemporary interdisciplinary visual arts focus
• Maori and Indigenous creative perspectives
• Study in Auckland, New Zealand’s major creative and cultural hub