OverviewAbout this course

    The Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts refines your existing art practise, skills and knowledge, and prepares you for an exciting career as a professional artist, artist assistant, community arts coordinator or gallery curator.

    Develop the wide-ranging, highly specialised technical, creative and conceptual skills you need to plan, realise and exhibit a substantial body of work as a visual arts professional. You will learn to engage in critical discourse and debate theoretical concepts, historical perspectives, your work and the work of others.

    With a 130-year history, TAFE NSW is the leading provider of education and training in Australia. Our teachers are dedicated and passionate because they have worked, and still work, in the industry and know exactly what it takes to succeed.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to:

    • Research and apply artistic concepts and theories
    • Establish and maintain safe creative practices
    • Draw and use visual tools
    • Originate, realise and exhibit work that expresses your creative vision
    • Engage in critical discourse and debates about your work, and the work of others

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Using industry specific tools and materials
    • Applying theory and history to further your individual art practice
    • Publicly display your own work
    • Extend your professional expertise to others

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • A passion for visual arts
    • Unique design ideas
    • A critical eye
    • The ability to accept and discuss feedback
    • Self-motivation and self-discipline

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Artist Assistant
    • Artist Sole Trader
    • Council Arts Coordinator
    • Gallery Curator
    • Visual Arts Professional

    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.

    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.

    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.


    6 core units plus 6 elective units, of which: 4 must be from Group A 2 may be from Groups A and/or B or from any currently endorsed training package qualification or accredited course.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Apply critical thinking for complex problem solvingBSBCRT611

    • Extend professional expertise with drawing and other visual representation toolsCUAACD611

    • Originate a body of independent creative workCUAPPR611

    • Engage in the business of creative practiceCUAPPR613

    • Publicly present a body of own creative workCUAPPR614

    • Extend cultural research expertiseCUARES612

    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

    Whatever your career ambitions, we will help you get there with a range of courses to develop your skills, build your knowledge and prepare you for work.

    TAFE NSW is here to create exceptional learner experiences and to support you on your study journey to make sure you achieve your goals.

    Explore your study options across a range of disciplines and talk to your TAFE NSW Education Agent or contact us.

    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