Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours – BFA(Hons)

You'll gain a competitive edge in a world where initiative and confidence are an advantage, and where new careers continue to be invented. Your research-led independent body of work will celebrate your growth into an independent creative arts practitioner. For those wanting to go even further, the fourth year of study with us can also be a fast- track into our Master's programme

In the Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours – BFA (Hons) – you’ll spend 2/3 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

• Visit the College of Creative Arts website
• Creative Arts guides

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

This is a selected entry qualification. 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 2024 (for Semester One start). This is strongly recommended for portfolios, but applications are accepted up to 21 February 2025, subject to available space.

Applications for Semester Two close on 30 June 2025.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

• Massey University English language requirements

Portfolio requirements

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.