Bachelor of Fine Arts

RMIT University's Bachelor of Fine Arts is based in Melbourne, a city known for its thriving arts culture and creative communities. This three-year degree encourages students to develop their artistic practice using a variety of media, such as painting, sculpture, photography, video, and new media. The course blends studio-based work with theory and art history to help students understand contextual influences on their creativity.

Learning is structured into semesters, and students complete designated units of study that contribute to the total number of credit points required for graduation. Units are focused on both studio practice and critical studies in visual art, meaning you'll spend a lot of time working in dedicated art studios and facilities. A key aspect of this degree is developing practical skills alongside the ability to critique and analyse art, both your own and that of others.

In the later stages of the course, students often take on a capstone project where they develop a substantial body of work in their chosen medium, preparing them for public exhibition or a professional portfolio. RMIT has strong industry connections in Australia’s art sectors, which can support work-integrated learning experiences such as internships or collaborative projects with local galleries and creative organisations. This environment suits students who want hands-on practice, want to engage deeply with the creative arts, and are keen to build links to Melbourne’s active art scene.

International students need to show English language proficiency, such as achieving an IELTS Academic score between 6.0 and 6.5, or equivalent scores in other approved tests. Up-to-date enrolment details and tuition information are published on the CRICOS register. Check the RMIT website for full requirements and unit offerings.

• Professional artist (painting, sculpture, installation, new media)
• Arts administrator in museums or galleries
• Studio assistant or technician
• Exhibition curator or assisting curator
• Community arts facilitator or educator (non-accredited roles)
• Roles with arts festivals and public arts projects in Australia
• Creative asset developer for design, advertising, or media agencies

Graduates can seek jobs in Melbourne's active arts sector and broader Australian creative industries. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) may allow eligible graduates to stay and work in Australia. While studying, students are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight under Australian Student visa conditions. Professional recognition in Australian galleries and arts organisations often depends on your portfolio and networking during your degree.