Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media at UNSW Sydney is a creative double degree designed for students who want to combine artistic expression with professional media skills in one exciting program. It’s a great choice for students who want to explore areas such as visual arts, animation, music, screen production, journalism or digital communication while building a strong creative identity and industry-ready skills.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you begin building strong creative and academic foundations across both fine arts and media. Students explore subjects such as Drawing and Visual Language, Creative Practice Foundations, and Introduction to Contemporary Art, while also learning how storytelling, communication and media culture influence the world around us. This year encourages experimentation, creative exploration and the development of your own artistic voice.

Year 2
In second year, students begin shaping their individual academic pathway by selecting areas of specialisation across both disciplines. Subjects such as Studio Practice, Moving Image Production, and Media, Society and Culture help students connect artistic expression with audience engagement, digital storytelling and media communication.

Year 3
By third year, learning becomes more project-based and industry-focused. Through subjects like Professional Creative Practice, Screen Production, and Media Research Methods, students work on collaborative productions, creative projects, exhibitions and professional media content while building practical experience.

Year 4
In the final year, students bring together everything they have learned through advanced electives, major creative projects and industry experiences. This stage helps students build a professional portfolio, strengthen industry networks and prepare for careers across creative and media industries.

Focus areas (in a string):

Animation and moving image, visual arts, music, art theory, screen production, cinema studies, communication and journalism, public relations and advertising, digital storytelling, creative direction

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Develop creative practice skills, produce professional media content, communicate ideas across multiple platforms, analyse culture and society critically, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, build industry portfolios, apply artistic and strategic thinking in professional environments

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Industry-focused learning through studio practice, exhibitions, screenings, internships, live creative projects and direct engagement with industry professionals

Reputation (employability rankings):

UNSW is globally recognised for academic excellence, creative innovation and strong graduate employability, giving students a respected qualification with long-term career value in creative industries

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media program is designed to immerse students in a hands-on learning environment that fosters creativity and innovation. Students gain practical skills through a combination of studio-based learning, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to engage with real-world challenges and develop a professional portfolio that showcases their talents.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media program at UNSW:

- Access to Cutting-Edge Facilities: Students can utilize advanced studios and workshops equipped with the latest technology for film, sound, and digital media production.
- Industry-Standard Software: The program provides training in essential software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premiere Pro, After Effects), Final Cut Pro, and Pro Tools, ensuring students are well-prepared for the industry.
- Collaborative Projects: Students often work in groups on projects that simulate real-world media production environments, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to undertake internships with leading media organizations, providing invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips and Industry Visits: Students participate in field trips to media studios, galleries, and exhibitions, gaining insights into the industry and current trends.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research labs allows students to explore innovative media practices and engage in experimental projects.
- Libraries and Resources: The UNSW library system offers extensive resources, including access to digital archives, media collections, and research databases tailored for media studies.
- Collaboration with Institutes: Students have the chance to collaborate with various institutes and organizations, enhancing their learning experience and professional connections.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enrich the academic experience but also prepare students for successful careers in the dynamic field of media. If you're ready to take the next step in your creative journey, consider applying to the Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media program at UNSW.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) are well-equipped to enter a dynamic and evolving job market. With a strong foundation in creative practice and media production, alumni often find themselves in exciting roles such as:

- Multimedia Artist
- Film and Television Producer
- Digital Content Creator
- Art Director

This program not only nurtures your artistic talents but also prepares you for a successful career in the creative industries. Here’s how UNSW supports your journey:

- Career Development Services: The university offers tailored career advice, workshops, and networking events to connect you with industry professionals.
- Employment Statistics: Approximately 85% of UNSW graduates find employment within four months of graduating, with average starting salaries around AUD 60,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW collaborates with leading organizations in the creative sector, such as the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) and various media companies, providing students with real-world experience and internship opportunities.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media is recognized by industry bodies, ensuring that your degree holds value in the job market for years to come.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are not only prepared for immediate employment but also equipped with skills that are highly sought after in various creative fields.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media, you have the option to further enhance your qualifications through postgraduate studies. You could pursue a Master of Fine Arts or a Master of Media Arts, allowing you to specialize in areas such as digital media, film production, or visual arts. This advanced education can open doors to higher-level positions and deepen your expertise in your chosen field.

Choosing UNSW for your Bachelor of Fine Arts / Media means investing in a future filled with creative possibilities and professional growth.