The Graduate Diploma of Arts (Visual Arts) course is based on the view that artistic practice comprises both studio practice and theoretical investigations, both are to be understood as research.  The Graduate Diploma has been constructed to reflect the intertwined character of theory and practice.  The course concentrates on the conceptual development of students through supervision and group forums.  The programme exposes the student to the diverse issues surrounding contemporary arts research in order to develop a rigorous and informed professional practice within a larger historical and social context. This course forms the basis for extended study in the Master of Arts Visual Arts programme.

The course is designed for individuals who define themselves primarily as artists, and who either have established a credible track record as practising artists or have shown a level of achievement and dedication in prior study, which indicates a strong potential for a career based around practice as an artist.  It will provide studies at the highest appropriate academic level for studio-based study in the visual arts. This study will incorporate two linked research papers and an exhibition to prepare artists for a sustained professional practice.

OBJECTIVES

On completion of the course, graduates should be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced techniques and skills appropriate to their personal artistic development;
2. Demonstrate individual research skills through studio practice and research;
3. Analyse and critically respond to problems of art practice;
4. Relate current theoretical standpoints in art theory to their own work and artistic development;
5. Contribute to the professional context of their specific area of the visual arts within the broad area of educational and social contexts.

TEACHING METHODS

The course aims to balance individual learning with group activities, to allow students to pursue their own directions, with a concomitant provision of regular opportunities for interchanging ideas with other students.  This will be facilitated by regular contact with a supervisor in addition to a number of group forums.  Within the forums the students will be required to nominate key texts relating to their practice to be discussed by the group in order to develop self-critical awareness and communication skills.

Applicants must apply directly to the University.  The interviewing panel will normally comprise the Post Graduate course coordinator and Programme coordinator or nominee from the school.  Qualified applicants will subsequently be invited to submit a portfolio and a proposal of the practical and theoretical projects to be carried out on the Post Graduate Diploma programme.

ELIGIBILITY

Candidates are expected to:

• hold a first degree or equivalent in creative arts from a recognised institution;
• demonstrate a committed practice within the creative arts; and
• demonstrate the ability to undertake research in both the written and practical components of the course.

CRITERIA

• Admission to the Graduate Diploma program will be based on the following criteria:
  Quality of portfolio of practical work.
• Quality of undergraduate academic record (normally above average or highly competent marks for the relevant units in the undergraduate degree or its equivalent).
• Curriculum vitae and written and verbal statements regarding the proposed Graduate Diploma project.
• Quality of written proposal.

All applicants will be asked to provide the names of two referees (e.g., lecturers or other appropriate persons) who would be willing to comment on their artistic and academic competence. 

COURSE DURATION

The duration of the course which is to be offered in the internal mode only, is one year full-time or the part-time equivalent. Students completing this course will be awarded a Graduate Diploma of Visual Arts and will be eligible to apply for the second year of the Master of Arts Visual Arts programme.

STUDIO AREAS

Students will have access to and may work in any of the specialist areas offered in the School of Communications and Arts. Any student wishing to propose practical studio projects in an area outside the above may negotiate for expert supervision within other areas of the Faculty.

Students must complete 120 credit points to complete the course.