Program Overview

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Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) BFA(Hons)

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) is an advanced research extension for students who successfully complete the Bachelor of Fine Arts. This program allows students to support their preferred artistic practices with individual research at an advanced level.

Programme Overview

The BFA(Hons) builds upon the practical and theoretical elements developed in the BFA. Students will explore an area of interest expressed through their chosen media, honed through critical thinking, seminars, and critiques of their research and output.

Conjoint Options

Conjoint programmes let students pursue two undergraduate bachelor's degrees at the same time.

Programme Structure

The programme aims to develop students' artistic practice to its full potential and expand their understanding of contemporary art forms in their various cultural contexts. Students will also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits.

Sample Programme Structure

• Year one: 120 points
  • FINEARTS 761: Contemporary Practice 1 (30 points, compulsory core course)
  • FINEARTS 763: Theories of Practice 1 (15 points, compulsory core course)
  • FINEARTS 770: Research Methodologies (15 points, compulsory core course)
  • FINEARTS 708: Honours Research Project (30 points, compulsory core course)
  • FINEARTS 782: Research Essay (30 points, compulsory core course)

Entry Requirements

Programme Requirements

Students must have completed Parts I, II, and III of the Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Auckland before starting the BFA(Hons) or BA/BFA(Hons).

Further Programme Requirements

• Prior study: Students will require a GPA of 5.0 across all of their Stage III courses in Fine Arts.

Other Pathways to Study

The 240-point Master of Fine Arts is a suitable postgraduate study option for those who already hold an undergraduate degree from a similar tertiary institution.

Fees

2026 Fees

• Domestic students: NZ$8,583.60*
• International students: NZ$52,843.20* Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on the university's website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs.

Key Dates

Application Closing Dates

• Semester One 2024: 8 December 2023

Start Dates

• 2025 Semester One: Starts - 3 March, Ends - 30 June
• 2025 Semester Two: Starts - 21 July, Ends - 17 November
• 2026 Semester One: Starts - 2 March, Ends - 29 June
• 2026 Semester Two: Starts - 20 July, Ends - 16 November

Career Opportunities

There are three common areas where Elam graduates find employment public sector, private organisations, or as a practising artist or entrepreneurial creative. As the business world looks to innovators, the capabilities developed through a creative education are becoming highly sought-after.

Jobs Related to this Programme

• Animator
• Art curator
• Art director (TV/film)
• Art writer or critic
• Artist
• Creative director in an agency
• Designer
• Educator

Further Study Options

• Master of Fine Arts
• Doctor of Fine Arts
• Doctor of Philosophy

Student Support

The University of Auckland provides various support services for students, including career planning and development. Once students become part of the university, they can get help with planning and developing their career from Career Development and Employability Services.