Course Overview
Looking for a creative degree that leads to real-world opportunities? The Bachelor of Creative Industries is built for future-focused creatives, ready to thrive in the global creative economy.
This innovative program blends digital design, creative strategy, and visual art practices to prepare you for high-demand careers in the creative sector.
In the first two years you will learn skills in brand and communication design, UX/UI design, visual art and moving image technologies, critical theory and more.
The final year of this degree is all about industry readiness. You will get to develop a professional industry portfolio and gain hands-on experience through internships with real creative businesses. There will also be plenty of opportunities to showcase your work through exhibitions and industry events.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- Bachelor of Creative Industries (Visual Art), or
- Bachelor of Creative Industries (Graphic Design)
| Locations | Tauranga |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Feb 2026 View more details |
| Study options |
3 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable) |
| Total credits | 360 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | $8,207 per year for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
Explore diverse creative paths across design, art, and education:
Product Design
Creative Designer • UX/UI Designer • Design Researcher • Packaging Designer
Communication Design
Brand Designer • Graphic Designer • Motion Graphics Designer • UI Designer • Packaging Designer • Social Media Designer • Content Creator • Creative Director
Experience Design
UX Designer • Interaction Designer • CX Designer • AR/VR Experience Designer • Design Researcher
Hybrid Design
Design Technologist • Innovation Consultant • Design Researcher
General Art & Design
Graphic Designer • Illustrator • Web Designer • Animator • Photographer • Videographer • Artist
Art Management
Arts Administrator • Career Pathway Advisor • Arts Consultant • Funding Advisor • Organisation Manager/Director
Exhibition & Gallery
Gallery Director • Exhibition Curator • Exhibition Manager • Registrar • Experience Manager • Collection Manager • Technician • Dealer
Arts Education
Educator (Early Childhood to Tertiary) • Programme Manager • Arts Technician • Administrator
Artist/Designer
Freelance & Commissioned Work • Public & Private Creative Opportunities
Topics you'll cover
Year 1
- Product Design
- Communication Design
- Brand Design
- Layout Design
- Visual Forms and Technologies
- Visual Image Technologies
- Visual and Cultural Perspectives
- Indigenous and Global Contexts
Year 2
- Experience Design
- Hybrid Design
- Campaign Design
- UX/UI Design
- Moving Image Practice
- Spatial Practices
- Critical Thought and Creative Ideologies
- Critical Practice and Theory
- Studio Development
Year 3
- Industry Portfolio
- Industry Connections and Experience (Industry Internship)
- Studio Practice
- Industry Studio Practice
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | $8,207 per year for domestic students |
|---|
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
To be admitted to this course, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A portfolio containing 10 pieces of work
- University Entrance or successful completion of the Certificate in Art and Design (Level 4)
You are expected to have the literacy skills required to meet the academic needs of the degree. Evidence of this may be required.
Portfolio
You are required to submit a portfolio when you apply for the course. The portfolio will show 10 recent art and/or design works together with a statement discussing your ideas and intentions.
Special Admission
If you do not meet the academic requirements you may be given special admission if Toi Ohomai staff are satisfied you are capable of successfully completing the requirements.
Special admission may also apply for applicants over 20 years.
Information Session
You’ll be invited to an information meeting. This is your opportunity to find out more about the course content and to make sure you're on the most appropriate course for your career aspirations and current level of experience.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic score of 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 4 with the Academic Endorsement or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.
Return to course overview
Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tauranga | Windermere Campus | 23 Feb 2026 |
Study options
- 3 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
