Study Bachelor of Contemporary Art at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
DBCX

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 29,400 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2023
AUD$ 30,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2024

Admissions
Student Profile

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
095004K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

None

Assumed Knowledge

None

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Kenya KCSE (average)	B
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	32
Norway GPA	2.8
Pakistan HSSC	75
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	6
Sweden GPA	12.5
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	6
Vietnam	7
Australia	65
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1050
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.41
Bangladesh HSC	3.5
Canada High School (OSSD)	60
Eynesbury FSP	310
German Abitur	3.8
India (best 4)	60

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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Degree overview

UniSA, incorporating the South Australian School of Art, has over 157 years’ experience in art education. UniSA is the only SA university ranked for art and design¹and is ranked #1 in South Australia for campus facilities in Creative Arts².

As a student in the Bachelor of Contemporary Art:

You’ll be taught by practising artists, writers and researchers with significant art industry experience
Turn your curiosity into a creative career
Learn in purpose-built studios and workshops
Access the SASA Gallery and the Samstag Museum of Art
Engage with a curriculum informed by world-class research in contemporary art.

UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities⁴, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

You also have the option of applying for the Bachelor of Contemporary Art/Master of Teaching (Secondary) packaged option for a pathway straight into secondary teaching.

¹2022 QS Subject Rankings
²ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
³Results in Studies in Creative Arts and Writing - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
⁴UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #46, 2022 THE Young University Rankings, Ranked #29, 2021 QS Top 50 Universities Aged Under 50.

Snapshot

Hands-on teaching and learning is a focus of this degree, and as a contemporary art student you will have access to a comprehensive range of facilities in custom-built studios and workshops. Alongside these are studies in art history, theory, and courses in how to grow your career and opportunities to connect with industry partners in the City West cultural precinct. A key feature of the degree is its flexibility. Students can choose to focus on the development of hand skills or opt for a more multidisciplinary pathway through the program.

Throughout your studies, you can select from a range of the studio areas including:

Ceramics
Drawing
Glass
Jewellery
Painting
Photography
Sculpture
Textiles
Printmaking

And also be introduced to the contemporary practices of video, sound, performance, and new media art.

A separate one-year Bachelor of Creative Arts (Honours) program is available to students who complete this degree with a credit or higher Grade Point Average (GPA). Other selection criteria may apply.

If you want qualifications as an art teacher, you can apply for the combined Bachelor of Contemporary Art/Master of Teaching (Secondary) degree - it's a pathway straight into a career as a secondary school art teacher. If this interests you, please read How Do I Become a Teacher before selecting your courses.

If you would like to apply directly into the Bachelor of Contemporary Art/Master of Teaching (Secondary) package option, please apply via SATAC using 424811.

What you'll learn

Throughout your studies you will acquire the advanced problem-solving skills necessary for successful contemporary art practice. You will have the opportunity to bring your creative ideas to life in dedicated studios and workshops, build a portfolio, and learn how to present your work in gallery spaces on and off campus.

Following your Foundation year, where you will be introduced to each main studio area, you can focus on your particular areas of interest or keep exploring via a wide range of electives. In your final year, you will work towards completing major artworks, identifying concepts, undertaking research, and experimenting with mediums and materials. This culminates in the annual end-of-year Graduate exhibition.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Critical Literacies for Contemporary Art	VSAR 1107	4.5
Reading Visual Culture 1	VSAR 1100	4.5
Foundation: Creativity	VSAR 1110	4.5
3D Contemporary Art Studio	VSAR 1105	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
The Studio Journal	VSAR 1109	4.5
Reading Visual Culture 2	VSAR 2100	4.5
Foundation: Principles of Perception	VSAR 1108	4.5
2D Contemporary Art Studio	VSAR 1104	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Contemporary Art Practice	VSAR 2096	4.5
Art and Australian Culture	VSAR 3015	4.5
Core Studio Elective		4.5	Note(s): 5
Contemporary Art Elective 1		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Contemporary Art Research	VSAR 1106	4.5
Art and Critical Thinking	VSAR 3016	4.5
Core Studio Elective		4.5	Note(s): 5
Contemporary Art Elective 2		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Contextualising Studio Practice	VSAR 2109	4.5
Studio: Project A	VSAR 3005	9
Contemporary Art Elective 3		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Contemporary Art Career Development	VSAR 3021	4.5
Studio: Project B	VSAR 3006	9
University Elective		4.5	Note(s): 4

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Core Studio electives
Painting Media and Processes	VSAR 2054	4.5
Digital Photography	VSAR 2067	4.5
Black and White Photography	VSAR 2069	4.5
Etching and Intaglio Printmaking	VSAR 2057	4.5
Relief and Alternative Printmaking	VSAR 2058	4.5
Alternative Drawing Processes	VSAR 2046	4.5
Drawing Techniques for Visual Arts	VSAR 2048	4.5
The Sculptural Object	VSAR 2063	4.5
Installation Art	VSAR 2098	4.5
Expanded Painting Practices	VSAR 3020	4.5
Contemporary Art electives
Figurative Practices	VSAR 3019	4.5
Experimental Media	VSAR 2103	4.5
Hot Glass Techniques and Processes	VSAR 2104	4.5
Jewellery Materials and Techniques	VSAR 2105	4.5
Kiln Formed Glass Techniques and Processes	VSAR 2106	4.5
Processes and Forms in Jewellery and Sculptural Objects	VSAR 2108	4.5
Textiles: Fibre and Structure	VSAR 2023	4.5
Textiles: Print - Dye	VSAR 2025	4.5
Life Drawing	VSAR 2049	4.5
Art in Public	VSAR 2060	4.5
Arts Writing	VSAR 2042	4.5
The Moving Image: Film, Art and Theory	VSAR 2014	4.5
Photography: The Evolution of an Image	VSAR 2066	4.5
Gender, Sexuality, and Representation	VSAR 2031	4.5
Ceramic Production Techniques	VSAR 2076	4.5
Ceramic Vessels	VSAR 2078	4.5
Internet and Digital Media	VSAR 2020	4.5

Rules & notes

Notes

1. This course should be chosen from the Contemporary Art or Core Studio electives listed; however, alternative courses may be taken with approval of the Program Director.

2. Students wishing to undertake the Master of Teaching after completion must select courses from a second learning area.

3. Students who have a Grade Point Average of 4.5 or more and who wish to independently pursue a topic of interest not available from the courses offered in any one study period may choose either a research or a project-based negotiated study elective with the approval of the Program Director.

4. This course may be chosen from any elective course offered by the university, see http://programs.unisa.edu.au/public/pcms/Home/Undergraduateelectives.aspx

5. This course must be chosen from the Core Studio electives listed.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate a range of practical and creative skills, with professionally focused and research-based learning. Assessment types will vary, but these will generally include:

studio projects
visual journals
essays
video presentations

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Bachelor of Contemporary Art

UniSA's Bachelor of Contemporary Art is South Australia’s most comprehensive undergraduate contemporary art qualification, with the most extensive range of studio areas, all located at the vibrant City West campus in the heart of Adelaide city’s art, culture and entertainment hub.

With access to dedicated studios, workshops, and gallery spaces, including the SASA Gallery, MOD and the Samstag Museum of Art, you will learn first-hand how to turn your creative ideas into reality.

Studio-based courses are supported by face-to-face tutorials and seminars, while a selection of online courses offer flexibility to allow you to fit study in with other work and life commitments.

Real-world connections

Learn from practising artists and industry professionals, and benefit from their experience and connections with studios and institutions around the world. You will also be given the opportunity to build networks and broaden your understanding of contemporary arts practice through workshops and seminars with visiting artists. The Bachelor of Contemporary Art also offers a range of study tours and exchange programs giving you the opportunity to further expand your horizons.

UniSA offers an extensive range of career-related events and workshops online, on campus and around Adelaide to develop your skills and increase your knowledge.

Study Contemporary Art at UniSA

Hear from UniSA graduate and artist Lucy Zola about her experience studying Contemporary Art at UniSA and how it has helped her reach her career goals.

Yusuf won the annual Helpmann Academy British School at Rome Residency, valued at $25,000.

The British School at Rome Residency (BSR) was an opportunity to reflect on what I had been doing and how I might take that forward on returning to Australia. My interest lay initially in Islamic geometric tile patterns such as the Cosmatesque tiles in Rome and other parts of Southern Italy. The live-in studio space at the BSR ensured that my creative practice was at the forefront of my thoughts.

After my Honours, I was awarded a scholarship for postgraduate research at UniSA and have started my PhD. The time to step away and reflect on my research interests, motivation and the intended outcomes has been invaluable.

Image credits: Mashrabiya by Yusuf Ali Hayat

Yusuf Ali Hayat

Bachelor of Visual Arts *now Bachelor of Contemporary Art

Career outcomes

Your career

Bachelor of Contemporary art graduates are highly creative problem solvers, motivated, independent, adaptable, and able to apply their learning to a wide range of professional contexts, including galleries, councils, theatres, festivals and community organisations.

The job prospects for contemporary artists in Australia are strong¹ and the practical, creative, and analytical skills acquired in the Bachelor of Contemporary Art are immediately transferable to other areas of the arts and cultural industries, and beyond. Careers for graduates of the Bachelor of Contemporary Art include:

artist
ceramicist or glass artist
jewellery designer/-maker
arts administrator
art director
set designer
curator and exhibition designer
community arts worker and workshop facilitator
art therapist
art teacher*

*To qualify as a secondary school art teacher you can apply for the combined Bachelor of Contemporary Art/Master of Teaching (Secondary) degree - it's a pathway straight into a secondary teaching career. If this interests you, please read How Do I Become a Teacher before selecting your courses.

¹Australian Government, National Skills Commission, Job Outlook 2020

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

SAIBT Diploma of Arts

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

As a contemporary art student you will have access to:

dedicated studio spaces and workshops in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, glass, jewellery, printmaking, photography, textiles, and new media
the University library’s extensive online collection of art, craft and design resources
on campus galleries including the SASA Gallery and the Samstag Museum of Art
UniSA’s City West campus located at the heart of Adelaide’s vibrant art, culture and entertainment precinct.

Your program director

Dr Stephen Atkinson

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Stephen Atkinson

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How to apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.