Master of Visual Arts

About the programme

Extend your art practice as you develop a deeper understanding through practical- and theory-based research.

This Master of Visual Arts qualification may lead to higher-level employment opportunities in the arts sector. Gain transferable skills that are highly valued in a huge variety of industries including education, art and design, arts management, editorial and curatorial practices.

Enjoy the chance to develop and present mastery of the professional, conceptual and technical skills relevant to your chosen field in the production of an original, independently-developed exhibition and associated writings. Choose to study at the Dunedin School of Art and enter into a lively and challenging environment where you will benefit from the nationally unique workshop facilities, a focus on individual supervision and the expertise of lecturers who have a diverse range of approaches and understandings in the Visual Arts and design. 

You can choose to study at our Dunedin Campus or we offer a low residency option for students based outside Dunedin. Please contact the Postgraduate Coordinator for further information.

Studying part-time

We know that full-time study isn't always possible. We also offer this programme part-time over two years.

Entry

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• A postgraduate visual arts qualification with a minimum of 60 credits at Level 8, with an overall grade of B (70%) or higher.
• You must submit an annotated portfolio, curriculum vitae and a project proposal, including an annotated bibliography. The portfolio must be no larger than 2MB. See further info in Your portfolio section below.
• Selection for admission includes an interview.
• If you do not hold the above qualifications, you must demonstrate appropriate ability through a portfolio and associated writings.
• International students will be individually assessed to ensure they meet the entry requirements.

We will be taking applications for a February 2023 start until 27 January 2023. Please submit all your materials by this date through the application portal.

Postgraduate interview dates

We will schedule in-person interviews on Wednesday 8 February for those in Dunedin. If you can't get to Dunedin, we will organise a time for you.##### English Language requirements

• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 6.5 with no individual band score lower than 6.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for a list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes. 

Your portfolio

Research Project proposal

The research project proposal is an important part of your application and should reflect your previous and current practice.

An introduction of approximately 500 words should provide a clear indication of the key areas of focus in the proposed research project and should demonstrate integration of theory and studio practice. Please provide:

• Project title
• Field of research interest
• Brief description of project
• Outline of research questions and proposed methodologies
• Annotated bibliography, listing approximately 15 items
• Nominated supervisors (please discuss with the Postgraduate Coordinator).

Approximately 1000 words should focus on the studio component of the project. Please include:

• Summary of previous research and outputs related to the field of interest
• Statement of aims and a list of relevant studio areas
• Forecast of anticipated resources (facilities and materials)
• Information on training already undertaken or to be undertaken
• Refer to the annotated portfolio.

Approximately 300-500 words should focus on the written component of the project. Please include:

• Summary of theoretical/historical contexts relevant to your project
• Information on previous study and research related to your field(s) of interest
• Links with the studio component of your project

Annotated portfolio

You should provide approximately 15 images of work (including images of installations where applicable). Each image should be numbered and correspond with an annotated list including information as to title, date, size, materials and position within your practice. Images should illustrate a range of work as well as development over a period of time. If available, you should attach exhibition catalogues, reviews, articles or any other material relevant to your work. 

Sending us your proposal and portfolio

• Please submit these digitally if you can.
• Please don't submit originals.
• If you have trouble uploading your documents digitally when you're applying online, please email [email protected]

If you need to send us your documents in a physical format, please send them to: 

Dunedin School of Art
Otago Polytechnic
Riego Street
Private Bag 9010, Dunedin

Please note: While all reasonable care will be taken, Otago Polytechnic does not accept responsibility for damage or loss of portfolio material.

Selection process

Selection for admission includes an interview.

Want your existing skills recognised?

If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, please ask us about our recognition of prior learning process. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification and could achieve it in a shorter timeframe. Please email [email protected] or call 0800 762 786.