Canberra Institute of Technology
Two Semesters full-time
This Diploma of Visual Arts develops your professional creative practice across multiple art forms including painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital art. Ideal for aspiring visual artists seeking to build a cohesive portfolio and establish a sustainable professional practice in the creative industries.
Entry requirements include Year 10 completion plus a Certificate IV skill set, or Year 12 completion. Applicants must provide evidence of technical and organisational skills through portfolio submission and interview prior to enrolment. Skills and knowledge may have been acquired through formal study such as completion of Certificate IV in Visual Arts or through creative practice experience. Australian Core Skills Framework literacy levels of at least 4 across reading, writing, learning and oral communication are recommended.
The course comprises 15 subjects total: 5 core units covering drawing and visual representation tools, realising creative bodies of work, developing sustainable professional practice, presenting creative work, and establishing safe creative practice. Students complete a minimum of 6 elective units from options including sculptural techniques, drawing techniques, painting techniques, printmaking techniques, digital art techniques, mixed media artworks, observational drawings, and moulding and casting techniques. Additionally, 2 units must be completed from professional practice enhancement and marketing activities.
Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is a leading vocational education provider with established relationships with local and regional universities including ANU, UC, ACU and CSU. CIT offers comprehensive support services, flexible study options (full-time and part-time), and maintains current industry connections to ensure qualifications meet contemporary creative sector needs. The institution provides credit transfer pathways to bachelor degrees and maintains a commitment to student success through dedicated student services.
Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles as visual artists, illustrators, mural and public artists, or object designer-makers. Visual artists work across diverse contexts in government, commercial organisations, and as independent practitioners. The qualification provides entry to higher education art and design programs at partner universities. Career opportunities span multiple creative industries including fine arts, commercial design, digital media, cultural institutions, and creative enterprises.
Course fee
Start date
You will be redirected to the training provider to enquire directly. Workinitiatives is not the course or training provider. We aggregate and list courses only.