Creative arts - VET study in creative arts
VET study in creative arts
Careers for creative arts VET graduates
Many VET graduates of creative arts courses will wind up being artists (painters, jewellers, ceramicists) or technicians supporting them.
However, careers in the graphic design and multimedia industries are also a good option for VET graduates with relevant qualifications. In fact, VET courses are highly regarded in these fields because of the skills-based training and technology focus that characterise the sector.
Other specialist occupations, such as printing or floristry are only available to qualified VET graduates.
Whichever area you choose, VET study will always do a good job at providing practical knowledge of how the relevant industry works. However, be aware that some VET courses might be more helpful in developing a hobby, rather than a career. At certificate level you will learn some basic skills but the diploma and advanced diplomas are the courses to look at if you’re interested in entering the industry.
Courses and specialisations
VET courses ranging from certificate I level to advanced diploma cover a wide variety of performing and visual arts. The following are just some of the many specialisations available.
●Graphic design ●Animation ●Ceramics ●Fine arts ●Fashion design ●Music ●Music industry (business) ●Photography ●Screen ●Stage management ●Floristry ●Multimedia ●Desktop publishing ●Arts administration ●Printing and graphic arts ●Live production, theatre and events
Getting in
Although the VET sector is usually regarded as having fewer prerequisites and lower entry requirements, it is not always the case in this field; wherever you want to study, you can usually expect to do an audition or display a portfolio of work.
Where to study
It is not only TAFE institutes and specialist registered training organisations that offer VET courses in creative arts. This is one of the few fields in which universities also participate in the VET sector.
As a result, you have many options in this field overall. However, different institutions are likely to specialise in one area or another so look at the course options of each carefully.
What to look for
Make sure you check out what’s on offer, and who the teachers are. There should be good performance spaces and art facilities, as well as performance and exhibition opportunities, as well as studio and gallery visits.
Pathways
In some instances courses in this field may provide articulation pathways to higher levels of study both within the VET sector and the university sector. Credit and recognition of prior learning may be given for some of the lower level VET courses (such as certificate II, III or IV) towards diploma courses in the same or related subject areas.
Similarly, students who complete diploma or advanced diploma courses may be eligible for entry into degree courses in creative arts. In such instances, recognition of prior learning may result in exemption from one to two years of the bachelor course.
Case study
Graduates of the Diploma of Visual Arts — Fine Arts at Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE can take advantage of a special articulation arrangement between the institute and the nearby University of the Sunshine Coast (USC). Students who successfully complete the diploma are able to enter the university’s Bachelor of Arts. USC then awards credit for the Diploma equivalent to 8 courses towards the Bachelor of Arts.
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