Type of qualification
Level of study
An undergraduate qualification is usually the first one you study.
Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.
Time to complete
Where you can study
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
Study a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours – BFA(Hons)
In the Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours – BFA (Hons) – you’ll spend two thirds of your time in the studio, experiencing different approaches to making art, and developing your own unique practice.
The qualification isn’t media specific so you can focus on the methods and ideas of contemporary art production, and make bodies of new work that are responsive to a variety of contexts. Work, learn and collaborate alongside with students across disciplines and year levels.
You can work across a range of media, such as:
- sculpture
- painting
- drawing
- performance
- installation
- moving image
- photography
- printmaking
- site-responsive work
- curatorial activities
- art writing.
The BFA (Hons) will stretch you, ground you in art theory and immerse you in art-making, with the support of some of New Zealand’s most notable fine artists.
We are looking for creative, enthusiastic and dedicated students who demonstrate skill and passion for design and the visual arts.
Get the full picture
A BFA(Hons) is a good fit if you:
- are passionate about art and art-making
- love experimentation, creative expression, and critical thinking
- want the freedom to be yourself, with easy access to tutors and excellent technical facilities.
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
This programme is a selected entry programme. This means there are a number of extra requirements you must meet.
To enter the Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours you will:
- submit a portfolio (if you do well in NCEA Level 2 art, design or technology – or equivalent - you may not need to submit a portfolio. See details below.)
- attend an interview in person or over Skype.
Application closing date
Applications close on 30 November 2023 (for Semester One start). This is strongly recommended for portfolios, but applications are accepted up to 21 February 2024, subject to available space in the programme.
Applications for Semester Two close on 30 June 2024.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Portfolio requirements
- Automatic entry: If you achieved NCEA Level 2 or 3 with Merit or Excellence overall and a Merit or Excellence endorsement in an approved art, design or technology subject, you have automatic entry and will not have to submit a portfolio. This also applies for Cambridge International students achieving an AS grade A or B in an approved art, design or technology subject.
- Portfolio pre-approval entry: You can show work in progress to a Massey College of Creative Arts staff member during a school visit, Massey Open Day or other University event, or video call. They’ll look at examples of your work with you and if it shows the creative potential we’re looking for, they’ll sign a portfolio pre-approval letter. Then you won’t need to submit a final portfolio with your application.
- Portfolio entry: Submit a portfolio showing a selection of your creative work that demonstrates your creative potential with your application to study.
Late applications will be considered if space is available.
See full details of the application process and portfolio requirements
Time limits for Honours, Distinction and Merit
If you complete this qualification within the stated time limit, you will normally be able to graduate with a class of Honours.
Look for further information under ‘Student Progression’ in the regulations for this qualification.
More information
- Read the regulations for this qualification thoroughly
- Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Prior learning, credit and exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:
- review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
- contact us through the Get advice button on this page.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Maximum time limits for completion
There are maximum time limits to complete some undergraduate and all postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Structure of the Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours
In the first year, you will be in mixed studio classes with design students. In the second year and beyond, your art studio classes will be made up of 2nd, 3rd and 4th year BFA students working with two art lecturers.
Studio course videos
View the video trailers for each Year One studio course.
More information: ‘Yellow Book’.
Courses and specialisations
Key terms
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Credit summary
480 credits
- Compulsory core (non-studio) courses – 120 credits
- Studio courses – 270 credits
- 400-level elective from Schedule B (or the BDes(Hons) Schedule C) – 15 credits
- Electives – 75 credits
Ensure that overall, you have:
- Not more than 165 credits at 100 level
- At least 90 credits at 200 level
- At least 105 credits at 300 level
- At least 120 at 400 level or above
This is a parts-based qualification. This means there are regulations around your completion of Part I before progressing to Part II, etc
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Schedule A
Part One
Compulsory courses
Course code: 237130 Communication for Makers credits 15
This course introduces students to academic writing and oral communication skills in the creative arts with a focus on stylistic characteristics and critical thinking. The course is underpinned by a basic overview of historical epochs from the 18th century to the present day.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237131 Conversations in Creative Cultures credits 15
This course introduces students to the concept of world views, to key issues and debates concerning cultural identity in Aotearoa New Zealand and their implications for creative practices.
View full course detailsPlus one of
Course code: 213157 Studio I (Art Lab) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes in art-making across different media. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213158 Studio I (Art Place) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to explore specific techniques, strategies and processes making art works in relation to site and context. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsPlus three of
Course code: 198157 Studio I (Object) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes in three dimensional form-giving, resourceful making and user experience. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 212157 Studio I (Dress) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes in creatively dressing bodies and fashioning garments. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213157 Studio I (Art Lab) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes in art-making across different media. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213158 Studio I (Art Place) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to explore specific techniques, strategies and processes making art works in relation to site and context. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 221157 Studio I (Lens) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes in photographic image-making. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 222157 Studio I (Screen) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes that form the basis of digital screen areas such as video, web, animation, interaction and emerging technologies. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 222158 Studio I (Type) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes for a range of visual communication environments, using type. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 223157 Studio I (Material) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes through the investigation of materials, form, surface, image and pattern for the design and making of textiles. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 224157 Studio I (Space) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes for the definition and investigation of physical, temporal and digital spatial environments and their inhabitation. They will learn to discuss and evaluate their work and the work of their peers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 296157 Studio I (Imagine) credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to creative and analytical thinking skills, idea generation and visualisation common to art and design practice. They will begin to acquire specific techniques, skills and processes for the definition and investigation of imagined conceptual worlds, stories, characters, and tools through the practice of iterative drawing, modelling and prototyping.
View full course detailsPart Two
Compulsory courses
Course code: 213241 Art Studio IIA credits 30
In this studio practice course students will develop ideas, practices and processes in the production of contemporary art through a series of prescribed studio projects, media workshops, gallery visits and guest speakers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213242 Art Studio IIB credits 30
In this studio practice course students will further develop ideas, practices and processes in the production of contemporary art through a series of prescribed studio projects, media workshops, gallery visits and guest speakers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237230 Creative Cultures & Contexts I credits 15
This course introduces students to histories of design and art to develop a critical appreciation of change and context. It will include the analysis of selected visual and material cultural practices in a series of theme based modules that explore the origins and impacts of consumerism, globalisation, sustainability.
View full course detailsPlus one of
Course code: 197288 Creative Collaboration credits 15
In this course, students from a broad range of creative practices will work together to conceptualise and create innovative offerings to experience and reflect upon collaboration as creative citizens.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237231 Creative Cultures & Contexts II credits 15
In this course students will explore and discover a broad range of critical perspectives relevant to the creative arts. They will select from a series of thematic modules, designed to prompt further consideration and questioning of creative practices.
View full course detailsPart Three
Compulsory courses
Course code: 213341 Art Studio IIIA credits 30
In this studio practice course students will expand content, context, methodology and the role of critical dialogue in the production of contemporary art. Study will be undertaken through a series of studio projects, media workshops, and a programme of gallery visits and guest speakers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213342 Art Studio IIIB credits 30
In this studio practice course students will further expand content, context, methodology and the role of critical dialogue in the production of contemporary art. Study will be undertaken through a series of studio projects, media workshops, and a programme of gallery visits and guest speakers.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213357 Introduction to Fine Arts Research Methods and Practices credits 15
An introduction to a range of methods and practices for undertaking research in a fine art context.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237330 Creative Cultures & Ideas credits 15
In this course students will explore and appraise a range of ideas that support the critical positioning of creative practices. The selected ideas will be explored through interdisciplinary engagement.
View full course detailsPlus one of
Course code: 197388 Creative Communities credits 15
Students from a broad range of creative practices will work together to explore conceptual and strategic dimensions of professional practice through engagement with experts from the creative sector. Students will develop an understanding of their position as creative citizens within a broader community.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237331 Creative Cultures & Display credits 15
In this course students will critically engage with a range of curatorial concepts in order to investigate modes of representation, collection, archiving, display and distribution. The course will overview key historical developments in 19th, 20th, and 21st century museum practices and examine selected cultural and ethical concerns for both community and institutional contexts.
View full course detailsPart Four
Compulsory Courses
Course code: 213441 Art Studio IV A Research credits 30
In this studio research course students will advance the exploration of content, context, methodology and the role of critical dialogue in the production of contemporary art. In consultation with lecturers, students develop a substantial, innovative research project that engages in critically reflexive practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213442 Art Studio IV B credits 45
In this studio course students will further advance the exploration of content, context and engaged dialogue in the production of contemporary art. In consultation with lecturers, students produce a substantial innovative body of work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213463 Fine Arts Research Seminar credits 15
A programme of advanced study that addresses the application, dissemination and discussion of research practices in contemporary art. Emphasis will be placed on selective investigation and presentation of critical issues in the production of art and culture.
View full course detailsPlus one of
Course code: 197465 Creative Leadership credits 15
In this course, students from a broad range of creative practices will work together to situate themselves within the spectrum of the creative industries. Serving their communities as creative leaders, students will apply research and innovation theories to business and social-enterprise practices in order to conceptualise, develop, and deliver a strategic offering for a defined audience.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213465 Exhibition credits 15
In this studio-based course students situate their creative practice through exhibition. Students work in a collaborative group to develop and realise an exhibition project. One of the key focus points for the course is students' growing understanding of the reality of public presentation of the creative output. This advanced programme of study will encourage discussion and critical reflection on diverse approaches to the exhibition of creative work and its relevance for a range of academic and/or professional contexts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 237465 Creative Exposition credits 15
In this course students will situate their creative practice through writing. They will extend and hone their critical, analytical and reflective skills through written exposition that focuses on projecting themselves and their practice externally. This advanced programme of study will encourage discussion on diverse approaches to creative research exposition and its relevance for a range of academic and/or professional contexts.
View full course detailsSchedule B
Course code: 213150 Painting credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to aspects of contemporary painting focusing on colour, surface and structure and developing an awareness of the diversity of painting mediums and techniques. While working to a brief, students are expected to undertake independent investigations and develop individual responses.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213151 Contemporary Sculpture credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to aspects of contemporary sculpture with a focus on object making, the exploration of physical materials and applied processes. While working to a brief, students are expected to undertake independent investigations and develop individual responses.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213154 Contemporary Drawing credits 15
In this studio course students will be introduced to the potential for drawing to become more than a traditional practice of representation. The course will focus on expanding students' observation skills, and modes of expression and representation, in an expanded field of contemporary art and design practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213155 Drawing the Body I credits 15
In this studio course students are introduced to the fundamentals of drawing the human body. Students undertake a project of drawing exercises using various techniques and media.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213211 Fine Arts Special Topic II credits 15
Course code: 213254 Drawing in Practice credits 15
In this studio course students will be guided by experts, each with a focus on particular approaches and technologies of drawing. Students will experiment with these different methodologies, and critically reflect on the role of drawing within their own practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213255 Drawing the Body II credits 15
A creative response to representation of the human body through a prescribed project. Students apply a range of drawing practices and media to the development of individual work.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213256 Contemporary Art Projects A credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213257 Contemporary Art Projects B credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213258 Contemporary Art Projects C credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213259 Contemporary Art Projects D credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213260 Fine Arts Special Topic IIB credits 30
Course code: 213261 Contemporary Art Projects F credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213262 Contemporary Art Projects G credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213263 Contemporary Art Projects H credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213264 Contemporary Art Projects I credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213265 Contemporary Art Projects J credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213311 Fine Arts Special Topic III credits 15
Course code: 213355 Drawing the Body III credits 15
The development of an individual drawing project using the body as subject. A degree of innovation and experimentation is expected in both the practice of drawing and applied understanding of the representation of the human body.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213356 Contemporary Art Projects E credits 15
An investigation into new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213358 Fine Arts Internship credits 15
A negotiated programme of study that provides students with the opportunity to gain experience and practice by working alongside visual arts professionals. Students work through self-directed inquiry and collaboration (as appropriate) towards the development of a project and assigned tasks within the professional environment. Prior approval by the course Coordinator is required.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213359 Contemporary Art Projects K credits 15
Engagement with new thinking in contemporary art research through a specific lecturer-led project.
View full course detailsCourse code: 213360 Fine Arts Special Topic IIIB credits 30
Course code: 213411 Fine Arts Special Topic IV credits 15
Course code: 213464 Art in Context credits 15
The course will discuss, critique and apply a range of exhibition, dissemination and publication conventions and practices within the context of contemporary art including art galleries, social practice, temporary and permanent artworks, public art, publishing, screenings and events
View full course detailsFees and scholarships
Fees, student loans and free fees scheme
Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
- Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
- View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable
Already know which courses you're going to choose?
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme and your eligibility on the Fees Free website. To use the site's eligibility checking tool, you will need your National Student Number.
Current and returning Massey students can find their National Student Number in the student portal.
- Student loans (StudyLink)
- Fees Free
- Student portal
Scholarship and award opportunities
- Collin Post Memorial Scholarship in Sculpture
- Massey University Undergraduate First Year Scholarship – School Leavers
Fees disclaimer
This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.
Careers and job opportunities
You will be prepared for any career that requires creativity, resilience, determination, critical thinking, problem-solving and attention to technical excellence.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours can be an entrance to professional fine arts practice, or it may lead to a variety of career opportunities in art-related fields. These can include art education, arts administration. Or you may become involved in creative industries where problem-solving skills are in demand.
What our students say
“One of the strengths of Massey's fine arts degree is that it's focused on being a contemporary practising artist.”
“Some of the most valuable skills I gained were how to deliver and present my art and writing, and to be self-directed when constructing a project. I liked the way Massey provides the resources to create and become an artist without telling you exactly how to do it.”
“I loved the entire experience of art school. It was exactly where I wanted to be, who I wanted to be, and be with, in a supportive environment, where I could push boundaries…”
Accreditations and rankings
Related study options
Certificate in Creative Arts – CertCreativeArt
Massey’s Certificate in Creative Arts is a flexible qualification that will introduce you to the basics of art and design - creative thinking, visual communication, specialist skills, and critical awareness.
Design – Master of Fine Arts
Embed yourself in a rich dialogue about your creative practice in Massey’s transdisciplinary Master of Fine Arts (Design) qualification, for artists and designers.
Diploma in Creative Arts – DipCreativeArts
You’ll study with art and design degree students in a range of studio and lecture-based courses covering everything from critical and contextual studies, to social media, painting, and digital fabrication.
Expressive Arts – Bachelor of Communication
If you love being creative and want to study a selection of theatre, performance, creative writing, and digital media production, and you also want great career prospects, the Bachelor of Communication (Expressive Arts) is for you.
Fine Arts – Master of Fine Arts
Embed yourself in a rich dialogue about your creative practice in Massey’s transdisciplinary Master of Fine Arts (Fine Arts) qualification, for artists and designers.
Graduate Diploma in Fine Arts – GDipFA
Massey’s Graduate Diploma in Fine Arts is for skilled graduates who want to gain new knowledge and skills in fine arts.
Master of Creative Enterprise – MCE
Combine research and practice to give you the skills you need to make your mark in the highly competitive creative industries.
Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Arts – PGDipFA
Extend your creative practice and begin your fine arts journey. Massey’s Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Arts gives you the opportunity for advanced study in contemporary art.
Visual Communication Design – Bachelor of Design with Honours
Visual communication is one of the most universal forms of design. It is at the heart of how our world works; guiding, informing, persuading, and inspiring us every day.
Without Specialisation – Master of Fine Arts
Embed yourself in a rich dialogue about your creative practice in Massey’s transdisciplinary MFA qualification for artists and designers.
Without Specialisation – Postgraduate Diploma in Design
Go beyond your bachelor’s degree and advance your design thinking with a Postgraduate Diploma in Design.
Without Specialisation – Graduate Diploma in Design
Develop your technical skills and learn to think like a designer.
Useful planning information
Key information for students
Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz