Bachelor of Visual Arts

Why choose this degree?

Join a creative community and explore your passion for the visual arts 

The Bachelor of Visual Arts will equip you with historical, theoretical and practical knowledge to begin a career in the visual arts, either in Australia or internationally. Working with accomplished artists, art historians and other industry leaders, you will learn how to navigate and succeed in the visual arts sector. This studio-first degree includes a range of opportunities to connect with potential employers and industry professionals.  

In the first year, you'll undertake introductory courses in Painting, Sculpture, Performance and Installation, Photography, Drawing and Contemporary Australian Indigenous Art. First year students may also undertake elective courses such as Printmaking or Jewellery and Small Objects.   

In second year, you'll choose a major: 

• Painting 
• Sculpture, Performance and Installation 
• Photography 

You'll also have a choice of electives including Public Art, international study tours, museums and galleries internships, or courses across other Griffith University degrees. 

In the third year, you'll continue in major studies, while learning important professional practice skills including the production of a major cross-disciplinary project and exhibition.  

Courses in art theory underpin all three years of the program and provide an important foundation for studio practice or further art historical and curatorial study. 

Learn in innovative, creative studio spaces at the Queensland College of Art and Design and leverage unique opportunities in our world-class facilities, including galleries and purpose-built visual arts studios. 

With the option to apply via portfolio submission, you can showcase your creative potential upfront. This inclusive degree embraces individuals who are passionate about creativity and creation. 

Industry and expert connections 

Opportunities to engage industry and build career readiness include:  

• working with guest artists, curators and arts workers through studio and other courses;  
• undertaking internships in galleries, libraries, events, archives or museums;  
• producing and participating in exhibitions including our major QCAD Graduate Exhibitions;  
• completing professional industry projects through QCAD's LiveArt courses (Public Art);  
• and embarking on international study tours for course credit (including tours to Europe, the Americas, the Pacific, Indo-Pacific and North, East and Southern Asia). 

Work-integrated learning 

Courses within this degree include work-integrated learning experiences such as: 

• professional practice/work placements, 
• industry projects performed at the university or in a workplace, 
• industry internships or other volunteering opportunities, 
• learning activities within virtual and simulated work environments. 

To experience this type of learning, you need to enrol in specific courses. These courses may be either core or elective to your degree. 

Graduate outcomes 

This internationally recognised degree will prepare you for a career in the visual and creative arts. You will become a skilled communicator and collaborator, able to innovate and express your ideas in a range of diverse environments where knowledge of visual and creative art practices is vital to a thriving sector.  

The Bachelor of Visual Arts also serves as the foundation for further studies in education, research or professional practice. 

Flexibility

Tailor your timetable - Even if you study full-time on-campus, you may still be able to customise your degree to suit your needs. From a range of tutorial times to online access to lectures and other course material, we're here to help you fit study in with your work and life commitments.

Global mobility

Expand your knowledge and your world-view through our mobility courses. Inspiring overseas study opportunities, ranging from a few weeks to a year, are available for students in this degree. Visit Go Global Griffith for more information.