Bachelor of Visual Arts at La Trobe University

Bachelor's Degree Fine Arts Full Time

Bachelor of Visual Arts

at La Trobe University · Melbourne, Victoria

CRICOS course code

110457G

CRICOS provider code

00115M

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

3 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$114,000 total

Per year

A$38,000/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Bachelor of Visual Arts at La Trobe University offers students a comprehensive foundation in creative visual expression, practical art-making, and critical theory. This three-year program, delivered from the vibrant cultural hub of Melbourne, covers a diverse array of media including painting, drawing, sculpture, digital art, installation, and printmaking. Throughout the degree, students engage with both studio-based practice and art historical studies, developing an expansive understanding of contemporary and traditional visual art forms.

The course is structured across semesters and consists of core and elective units of study. Each unit carries a number of credit points contributing towards the 3-year course requirement, enabling students to explore their areas of interest while meeting the qualification’s requirements under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). Many visual arts degrees culminate in a capstone project or exhibition, allowing students to bring together their learned knowledge and showcase their artistic practice to peers and the wider community.

La Trobe’s Bachelor of Visual Arts equips graduates with strong creative and technical skills, critical analysis, and independent project development. Students learn to conceptualise, plan, and execute artworks, and gain experience articulating their creative vision both visually and verbally. The program suits aspiring artists, designers, and those seeking broader opportunities in the creative industries, including those considering further postgraduate study or research. Some degrees feature opportunities for professional placement or exhibition experiences, reflecting the strong industry connections of a Melbourne-based institution.

International students need to demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent), and are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study. Upon graduation, eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia. Students should confirm details and unit offerings on the official La Trobe University course page.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Professional visual artist (painting, sculpture, digital art, etc.)
Gallery or museum assistant
Art educator (with additional study)
Art director or creative assistant in design studios
Community arts facilitator
Arts project manager
Roles in Australian creative industries, cultural organisations, and media

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bachelor of Visual Arts at La Trobe University?

It typically takes 3 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$114,000 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Professional visual artist (painting, sculpture, digital art, etc.)Gallery or museum assistantArt educator (with additional study)Art director or creative assistant in design studiosCommunity arts facilitatorArts project managerRoles in Australian creative industries, cultural or...

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