This is a one-year programme of advanced study in Film, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography or Sculpture. The BFA(Hons) consists of a submission of works and a research paper in the same subject. The School of Fine Arts provides opportunities to gain valuable exhibition experience through an ongoing professional relationship with the Christchurch Art Gallery. There is also an artist-in-residence programme and the School enjoys a busy schedule of visiting international artists who share their expertise with postgraduate students. On-campus facilities include ample studio space, well-equipped workshops, digital labs, darkrooms and extensive film and video facilities. In addition there is an onsite gallery, and one of the country's top fine arts collections. Studies in Photography begin with a comprehensive introduction to photographic principles, an exploration of photography as a device for communicating information, ideas and personal insights, and an introduction to the basic materials and processes of photographic practice. Further studies involve an examination of the procedures which are distinctive to photography and how these procedures can be used for documentary and artistic expression. Advanced studies are individually constructed; they focus on projects concerned with expressive aspects of the medium, and are encouraged to see their work and to examine it critically within its historical and sociological context.

Numerous exhibitions are organised by the School of Fine Arts throughout the year, allowing students to showcase their work to multiple audiences. Recent UC graduates have gained employment as professional artists, art gallery directors, photojournalists, commercial photographers, film directors, designers, consultants, art conservators, illustrators, fashion designers, curators, art critics, art historians, graphic designers, lecturers and art teachers.