For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: CUA51120 | CRICOS Code: 110852G
Diploma of Visual Arts
OverviewAbout this course
The Diploma of Visual Arts gives you the skills and knowledge you need to work in the creative arts industry as a visual artist, creator, art tutor, and assistant museum or gallery curator.
In this course, you will learn about art theory and history, and develop your ability to critically analyse information and communicate complex ideas. You will also learn specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills to further your art practice and realise your artistic vision.
At TAFE NSW, you will have the opportunity to work with a range of art media, including ceramics, digital art, drawing and illustration, painting, photo media, printmaking, sculpture, wood and textiles.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:
- Refine your drawing and other visual representation tools
- Develop your own sustainable professional practice
- Realise and present a body of creative work
- Establish and maintain a safe creative practice
- Analyse cultural history and theory
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Realising and presenting a body of work
- Documenting your art project
- Preparing your work for exhibition
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in the arts industry:
- Creativity and imagination
- Self-discipline
- Commitment to practical study
- Sound understanding of historical and cultural arts practices
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Artist - Arts Practitioner
- Assistant Museum/Gallery Curator
- Council Arts Assistant
- Art Tutor
SuitabilityInternational entry requirements
At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.
- Year 12 or equivalent
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you need may be assessed via a review of your LLN skills with written tasks and a one-on-one interview. If you need to strengthen your LLN skills, an individual training plan will be created with you.
Additional Requirement:
- For direct entry into this course submission of a portfolio, design or written task is required for assessment. Download document
To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:
- A creative and imaginative mindset
- Self-discipline and motivation
- An ability to work with your hands
- A keen eye for detail
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this qualification at the time of publication.
Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations
As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| St George (Kogarah) | Feb | $13,460 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| St George (Kogarah) | Feb | $14,000 AUD |
Additional costs
Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.
Structure and unitsWhat you will study
At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.
5 core units plus 10 elective units, of which 6 must be from Group A and/or Group C 2 must be from Group B 2 may be from the remaining listed electives or any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course.
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Refine drawing and other visual representation toolsCUAACD531
Realise a body of creative workCUAPPR511
Develop sustainability of own professional practiceCUAPPR512
Present a body of own creative workCUAPPR513
Establish and maintain safe creative practiceCUAPPR515
PathwaysContinue your studies
At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:
Vocational study pathway
Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW degree pathway
From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways
TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
Other university pathways
You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.
Keep learning with TAFE NSW
ServicesCampus facilities and support services
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.
We offer a range of support services including:
- TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
- TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
- TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
- Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
- LinkedIn Learning - an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
We're here to help
If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.
Contact TAFE NSW International