About the programme
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) is an NZQF Level 8 programme at Whitecliffe: a one-year, full-time (120-credit) year after the BFA devoted to sustained practice-based research. It prepares graduates for professional life in the creative industries or for study at master's level.
Where the undergraduate degree lays creative and technical foundations, the Honours year centres on independent inquiry and studio work to a professional standard. It is built from two courses that each run across both semesters, Studio Research and Critical Contexts, which together tie theory, context and practice to each student's in-depth research project.
Every student is paired with an academic supervisor and a studio mentor who give ongoing critique. The year includes research seminars, reading groups and peer discussions. Students deepen their grasp of contemporary art theory and exhibition practice and learn to articulate their ideas both visually and in writing. They work from a personal studio at the Symonds Street campus in Auckland, with access to printmaking, lighting and darkroom facilities, digital labs and project spaces.
The programme ends with a final exhibition or presentation of research outcomes and an accompanying written research summary, and the public showing forms part of the final assessment. The Honours degree lays the groundwork for further research, including the Level 9 Master of Fine Arts, and students meet Auckland's art community through visiting artists, exhibitions and collaborations.
Entry requirements
- A completed NZQF Level 7 undergraduate qualification, or equivalent, gained within the last 3 years.
- A GPA of B– or higher (GPA 4) in the final undergraduate year.
- A portfolio, a Statement of Research Intent and evidence of academic writing ability.
- An interview.
- International applicants: IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent, and NZ visa requirements.
What you study
- Studio Research (two semesters)
- Critical Contexts (two semesters)
- Final exhibition or presentation of research outcomes
- Written research summary
Careers after graduation
- Exhibiting artist in New Zealand or overseas
- Gallery Manager or Curatorial Assistant
- Tertiary or secondary school teacher
- Art Consultant or Art Project Manager
- Art Magazine Editor
- Arts Administrator
- Set design and construction
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website