The programme focuses on developing skills in drawing, painting, mixed media, and design.
It offers opportunities for focused sampling and exploration primarily within the areas of Fine Arts + Photo Media, with some further content relating to Design Innovation and Fashion + Sustainability, all of which underpin the degree-level programmes at Whitecliffe.
The emphasis is on practical projects and deepening students' understanding of the visual arts as well as the principles and the application of design, supported by conceptual content and knowledge.
The programme focuses on developing skills in studio-based practice, multi-media techniques, and the understanding of arts practices.
It offers focused sampling and practical exploration of a variety of art-making processes, and developing skills of interpretation and visual communication, primarily within Fine Arts (Drawing, Painting, Mixed-Media, Printmaking, Photography and Moving Image), with Design aspects that assist students to produce a professional portfolio of work.
February 2026 Intake
16/02/2026
July 2026 Intake
20/07/2026
18 weeks
Full-time
Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Manuakau Campus
Fees free may apply.
All 2025 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.
Domestic: $3,957 + $150 Student Services Levy
International: $12,000 + $150 Student Services Levy
Further study options:
Level 4 Certificate in Digital Media + Design
Level 7 Bachelor of Fine Arts
Level 7 Bachelor of Design + Digital Media
Level 7 Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design
Certificate in Fine Arts
NZQA Level 4 (60 credits)
NZ Government key information link for students.
Graduates will produce a portfolio and gain a broad knowledge of art and design-related subjects to ensure they are equipped with the learning strategies, attitudes and self-management skills for further tertiary study and/or entry-level vocations.
Certificate in Fine Arts
Miriama Korewha’s work, featured in Whitecliffe’s End-of-Year Fine Arts Exhibition, explores innovative presentation strategies that engage audiences in new and dynam ...
Master of Fine Arts
Laela Chung’s assemblages acknowledge both the joys and anxieties of being hyper-connected. Her work asks how we might find roots when we live in the age of information ...
Certificate in Fine Arts
Tina Ritter’s work was featured in Whitecliffe’s End-of-Year Fine Arts Exhibition, showcasing her creative exploration and artistic development. Her pieces reflect th ...
Jono Kraettli - Owner/Photographer, Focal Photographic
Applicants must
International applicants must
This course is ideal for beginners and aspiring artists who want to explore full-time fine-arts study before committing to a three-year degree. It suits school leavers, career changers, or returning learners who want to develop confidence, skills, and a creative portfolio. No prior qualifications are required.
The Certificate in Fine Arts is a full-time, 18-week programme, typically completed over two academic terms.
Students attend five studio-based classes per week, each lasting around half a day. You’ll also spend time on self-directed work to develop your projects outside class. The structure allows flexibility to balance part-time work alongside study.
In Term 1, you’ll explore Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Photography, and Open Media (research through exploration).
In Term 2, you’ll advance your Painting and Drawing skills while studying Multiple Media, Moving Image, and Exhibition and Portfolio Presentation.
You’ll develop a wide range of creative and technical skills including observational drawing, composition, mixed-media experimentation, digital imaging, and visual storytelling. You’ll also learn how to critically reflect on your work and present it professionally.
On completion, you’ll graduate with the New Zealand Certificate in Fine Arts (Level 4) and a portfolio of creative work that can be used to apply for further study in fine arts or other creative disciplines.
Graduates often progress to the Bachelor of Fine Arts at Whitecliffe or other creative degree programmes. The certificate also opens pathways to entry-level creative industry roles, community arts projects, or developing your own independent art practice.
Beyond tuition fees, expect to spend approximately $200 on basic materials, plus additional costs for printing or other supplies during the course. Whitecliffe provides many core materials, but you’re encouraged to bring your own. A detailed materials list is provided during the admissions process.
Whitecliffe provides a collaborative, supportive studio environment where you’ll learn from practicing artists and tutors. Small class sizes ensure personal feedback, access to shared studio facilities, and the opportunity to exhibit your work as part of the programme.
The vast majority of our team have extensive experience within their respective industries. This is key in helping us ensure our graduates have the real-world skills they need for a successful career and bright future.
Anton Maurer is an artist and educator, with a practice grounded in lens-based media.
...
Christina Read’s artwork is bright, playful, and vulnerable. The UK-born Tāmaki-based artist ...
David Cowlard is a senior lecturer with specialist teaching experience in lens-based practices, d ...
Glen Snow gained his Masters at Elam School of Fine Arts, University of Auckland (UOA) in 2012. H ...
Lynnemaree has worked in a range of positions at Whitecliffe and is currently a lecturer and a Cr ...
Matt Dowman received his BFA from Whitecliffe in 2002, and a MFA with honours from Auckland Unive ...
Matt Ellwood is an artist and educator with more than 25 years of professional experience in the ...
Noel completed his undergraduate studies at the School of Art, Otago Polytechnic before completin ...
Richard Maloy completed his MFA from the University of Auckland in 2001. He employs a multi-disci ...
Rose Meyer gained a Master of Fine Art with First Class Honours in 2015 and a Post Graduate Diplo ...
Caryline Boreham is an artist and educator whose recent work blends a photography practice with a ...
