Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours)

The Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) at Griffith University is designed for students who have completed an undergraduate visual arts degree and want to further develop their artistic practice and research skills. The honours year typically consists of two semesters over one year of full-time study, and focuses on an independent studio-based project supported by research and critical theory. Students work closely with academic staff and professional artists, examining new ideas and methods within their chosen specialisation, whether it’s painting, sculpture, photography, or digital media.

The structure usually includes a combination of studio work, theoretical seminars, and a major research essay or creative project, often regarded as a capstone component. Students are allocated units of study with credit points contributing towards the honours degree, reflecting the rigour and academic expectations of AQF Level 8. Griffith emphasises research skills, critical analysis, and advanced technical competencies, enabling students to articulate and present their creative outcomes professionally, skills much valued in contemporary art, curatorial work, teaching, and arts management.

This course is well-suited to graduates who are aiming for a professional career in the arts or those considering postgraduate research (such as a Master of Fine Arts or PhD). The supportive environment at Griffith’s Brisbane campus, with its strong industry connections and opportunities for public exhibition, gives students access to galleries, practising artists, and local networks in the Australian visual arts scene.

International students must demonstrate English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent). While studying, eligible student visa holders have rights to work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and graduation can open a pathway to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Full course details, including entry requirements and published fees, should be confirmed on the official CRICOS and university websites.

• Practising visual artist exhibiting work in galleries or public spaces
• Curatorial or gallery assistant roles in museums and public or commercial galleries
• Art educator or workshop facilitator (pending further qualification for school teaching)
• Arts administrator or coordinator in Australian arts organisations or government agencies
• Preparation for postgraduate study or art-based research positions