The Diploma of Art and Creativity (Advanced) is the natural next step after completing the New Zealand Diploma in Creativity (Level 6). This art course is designed for ākonga (students) who are ready to refine their practice, push creative boundaries, and begin working towards a sustainable, professional artistic career.
New Zealand Diploma in Creativity
LEVEL 7
Advance your creative practice. Define your artistic voice. Prepare for life as a practising artist.
Mā te mōhio, ka mārama – Through understanding comes clarity.
You’ll develop a cohesive body of experimental work, culminating in a public presentation or exhibition that reflects your unique creative direction. This art course will challenge you to think deeply, make bravely, and connect your work to broader conversations in your chosen discipline.
New Zealand Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced)
NZQA Level 7 | 120 credits
Delivery: Study From Home or On-Campus. Online sessions: weekly group discussions and monthly one-on-one mentoring.
Duration: 45 weeks (Full-time) | 2 x 45-week enrolments (Part-time)
Fees (2026): $6,909.00 (Full-time) | $3,454.00 (Part-time, for single enrolment of 45 weeks)
Intakes: Term 1 and Term 3
Time Commitment:
This is a combination of Tutor (Kaiako) and self-directed study
- Full-time: 34 hours/week
- Part-time: 17 hours/week
NZ Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7)
What you’ll learn
By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to demonstrate what it means to be a practising creative artist — independently, thoughtfully, and with intent.
NZ Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7)
Learning approach
At this level, study is highly self-directed, supported by:
- One-to-one mentorship: Monthly sessions to guide your personal creative direction
- Weekly group online discussions: Peer engagement and shared feedback (approx. 1 hour)
- Independent research and studio practice: Exploring your own creative process, influences, and context
- Regular progress checks: Ensuring you’re on track and adapting your goals as needed
You’ll work in an inclusive, encouraging learning environment — one that supports your growth through reflection, critique, and creative risk-taking.
NZ Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7)
Programme requirements
Throughout the course, you will:
- Create a Creative Plan to guide your work
- Upload images to the Workroom fortnightly
- Make a Teams presentation about your work every 2nd term (or 4th term for part-timers)
- Undergo formal progress checks every 6 months
- Maintain documentation of your research and process
NZ Diploma of Art & Creativity (Advanced) (Level 7)
Entry requirements
& Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
This programme is open to graduates of any of the following Level 6 diplomas:
- NZ Diploma in Creativity (Level 6)
- NZ Diploma in Arts & Design
- NZ Diploma in Fashion
- NZ Diploma in Digital Media & Design
- NZ Diploma in Ngā Toi
All students are interviewed during the enrolment process and must submit a portfolio as part of their application.
If you have relevant creative art experience but haven’t completed a Level 6 diploma, you can apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Admission through RPL is assessed on the strength of your portfolio and supporting evidence.
If you’re unsure whether your experience is suitable, get in touch — we’re happy to guide you through the process.
Graduate outcomes
Graduates will have developed a sustainable and critically engaged creative practice. You’ll be prepared for:
- Independent or commissioned creative work
- Exhibition or public presentation
- Further study or postgraduate pathways
- Community or industry-based creative projects
Ready to begin?
Contact our Admissions team at admissions@tlc.ac.nz for more information or to start your enrolment in a TLC art programme.
