Associate Degree of Visual Art
The Associate Degree of Visual Art (ADVA) is a two-year program focused on building foundation skills in key aspects of visual art.
Applications for Semester 1 2027 are now open.
The ADVA is the first two years of the Bachelor of Visual Art (BVA), so you will be be studying alongside Diploma and Bachelor students in your classes. During studying the ADVA, you will be taking classes in:
- Sculpture
- Painting
- Drawing
- Art History & Theory
- Contemporary Studio Practice
The ADVA will equip you to pursue employment opportunities in the field of visual arts and in related occupations or undertake further study. The ADVA can be completed at a part-time or full-time rate.
The ADVA would suit someone interested in expanding their technical, written and conceptual skills in visual art. The difference between studying the ADVA and studying the BVA is that the BVA includes a third year which is focussed on a year-long individual project and professional artistic practice. If you complete the ADVA and are interested in studying this third year, you can apply to enter the BVA and get recognition of prior learning for your previous 2 years of study.
For more information on studying the ADVA, you can get in touch with our Student Services Officer Genevieve Spalding.
2026 Student Handbook here.
Course Learning Outcomes
On completion of the ADVA, you will be able to:
- Apply broad knowledge and technical skills to the production of creative artefacts.
- Examine historical and theoretical processes relevant to the visual arts.
- Transmit ideas, concepts and processes relevant to the visual arts through creative and critical thinking.
- Identify and discuss a broad range of visual arts contexts and professional pathways.
- Express integrity, empathy and ethical understanding in the production of creative artefacts.
- Apply safe work practices, including the appropriate use of equipment and materials in visual arts practice.
How to apply
Applications for Semester 1 2027 are now open, with Round 1 applications due by 2 November 2026, and Round 2 applications due by 4 January 2027.
Preparing Your Application
Information on preparing your application and the support material required can be found on the first page of the New Student Application Form (available when applications are open).
Application Entry Stream
Applications can be submitted under the Academic Entry Stream or Alternative Entry Stream.
To apply under the academic entry stream, an applicant requires an ATAR score (or equivalent) of 60 or above completed within the last 5 years OR a qualification of AQF Level 5 or above completed in the last 10 years.
To apply under the Alternative Entry Stream, applicants will need to attend a portfolio interview. This will be scheduled after the application closing date.
Assessment of Applications
Academic Entry Applications are assessed after the application closing date. Alternative Entry Applications are assessed after the portfolio interview.
Applicants are notified of the outcome of their application by email. Applicants who are accepted into a course of study receive a Letter of Offer and Enrolment Pack. Applicants who are not accepted into a course of study receive written notification.
Applicants who are dissatisfied with the outcome of their application are referred to the School’s Student Grievance Policy and Procedures.
Questions? Contact our Student Services Officer Genevieve Spalding, or call our administration office on 8299 7300.
2026 Student Handbook here.
2026 Academic Dates
Intensive Study Period 1 2026
12 January – 30 January
Teaching Weeks | 12 January – 23 January
Tuition Fee due date | 1 January
Census Date | 15 January
Semester 1 2026
Term 1 | 9 February – 3 April
Term 2 | 20 April – 12 June
Tuition Fee due date | 19 February
Census Date | 5 March
Intensive Study Period 2 2026
22 June – 10 July
Teaching Weeks | 22 June – 3 July
Tuition Fee due date | 11 June
Census Date | 25 June
Semester 2 2026
Term 3 | 13 July – 4 September
Term 4 | 21 September – 13 November
BVA & Hons Final Assessment Week | 16 – 20 November
Tuition Fee due date | 27 July
Census Date | 10 August
Course Information
Important Dates
Round 1 Interview Dates: 5 – 6 November, 2026
Round 2 Interview Dates: 7 – 8 January, 2027
New Student Application
Diploma of Visual Art | Associate Degree of Visual Art | Bachelor of Visual Art.
Applications for Semester 1 2027 are now open.