Art & creative design courses

Commit to your artistic practice. Explore creative courses today.

Pick a speciality to explore your study options

Follow your passions and refine your techniques

Art and design are integral parts of our culture. Studying a creative course—whether visual arts, graphic design or theatre—will give you the conditions needed to dedicate yourself to your craft.  

You’ll connect with other creative practitioners and gain new tools and techniques to elevate your practice and produce the work you’ve always wanted to make. Start exploring online creative courses now.  

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Why study art & creative design online through us?

Access quality university courses without needing an ATAR

Connect with artists and creatives from all over Australia

Study more flexibly with single subjects, short courses and degrees available to start throughout the year

How Open Universities Australia (OUA) works

We partner with leading universities to make higher education easier for everyone to access. We're here to:

  • offer you guidance on your course choices.
  • unlock more flexible study options for you with your university.
  • ease your mental load by supporting you with your student admin. 
Read more about how OUA works
Douglas—Arts student with Macquarie University, through Open Universities Australia.
Douglas studied creative writing with Macquarie University through Open Universities Australia

Art & creative design careers

Whether you want to make a career out of it or just pursue your passion on the side, studying art and design will be an enriching experience.  


Industries where graduates work:

Contrary to what some people may tell you, it is possible to carve out a living as an artist or designer. 

You may find work as a graphic designer or animator, become a bona fide theatre-maker or apply your talents as a commercial illustrator in fashion or marketing. You could even become a teacher who inspires others to pursue a creative path. 


Are courses accredited? 

Relevant courses offered through Open Universities Australia are accredited by professional associations, such as the below. Check each course page to see if your qualification is recognised by these bodies. 


You might also be interested in these study areas: 


Meet Kori, who found his learning style

"I suffer with severe social anxiety. Being able to go at my own pace and not have a teacher or other classmates around is very helpful...

As I started working, it was great. It has been a lot better than any previous learning experiences I've had in the past."

 

What to read before choosing your course

Help! What degree should I study?

You know you want to go to uni, but you have no clue what course to study. First of all, don’t panic. This is a very, very common problem, and one we’re known for solving. The following advice should help you narrow down your choices.

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If you’re studying full-time, you may be eligible for income support. Find out about the three main types of Centrelink payments for students, Austudy, ABSTUDY and Youth Allowance. 

Help me studyOnline study experience

University entry requirements explained

Learn more about how admission criteria works when you're applying for university—and what to do if you don’t meet the requirements.    

Help me study

Why single subject study could be perfect for you

Did you know you can take a single university subject without committing to the whole qualification? It’s a great way to upskill—or to give your degree a test run. 

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Student advisor Josh is here to help.

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