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CUA31120

Certificate III in Visual Arts

Start your career in the arts with this entry-level qualification that will hone your skills to work as a visual artist across a number of mediums.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Sunshine Coast North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 6 months View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Fee-Free TAFE

Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

$0
Concession

Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

$1,405
Subsidised

There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

$2,485
Full Fee

This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

$5,740
TAFE at School Full Fee

This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

$4,080
Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Begin your career in the arts with this entry-level qualification. This course will hone your skills to work across a number of arts mediums as well as giving you the foundation knowledge needed to undertake further study in the field. 

The creative arts industry plays an important role in Australia's economy. According to the Australian Government's MySkills service, it contributes over $10 billion to the economy and employs nearly 100,000 people. The emergence of new technologies and wide range of job prospects available mean this is an exciting industry to be a part of.

This course will give you the practical skills and knowledge to explore the use of colour, use visual components to communicate ideas, and develop critical thinking techniques. Our highly experienced and passionate teaching team have years of industry experience and will give you the one-on-one guidance needed to prepare you for a career in the creative industries.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work in a variety of roles as either an arts and media professional, sculptor, painter, or visual arts and crafts professional. It will also give you the core skills needed to undertake further study in the visual arts field and other creative areas.

What can I do?

  • Painter (Visual Arts)
  • Sculptor
  • Arts and Media Professional
  • Ceramics Studio Assistant

Course outcome:

CUA31120 Certificate III in Visual Arts

UPGRADE YOUR QUALIFICATION

Got a taste for something more? Use this course as a pathway to higher qualifications in a number of creative areas including photography, screen and media, film and television, animation and visual effects, or interactive media.

Fee-Free TAFE

The career of your dreams is within reach thanks to Fee-Free TAFE. Follow your passion with over 70 industry-recognised courses to choose from.  With a range of skill sets, certificates and diplomas available, now’s the time to get job ready with Fee-Free TAFE. Learn more

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 8 elective units from the list below.

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

Electives

  • Electives

  • UNIT CODE
  • BSBWHS211
    Contribute to the health and safety of self and others
    UNIT CODE :
    BSBWHS211
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work in a manner that is healthy and safe in relation to self and others, and to assist in responding to incidents.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Contribute to the health and safety of self and others

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAPPR311
    Produce creative work
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAPPR311
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and produce creative work in any media. Work is typically produced through exploration of ideas, techniques, tools, equipment and materials.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Produce creative work

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUAACD311
    Produce drawings to communicate ideas
    UNIT CODE :
    CUAACD311
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to produce drawings that represent and communicate ideas. It does not relate to drawing as an art form. It involves planning drawing work, experimenting with ideas and producing drawings.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Produce drawings to communicate ideas
    (Colour Cluster)

  • UNIT CODE
  • CUARES301
    Apply knowledge of history and theory to own arts practice
    UNIT CODE :
    CUARES301
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to assess the relevance of historical and theoretical information for application to own arts practice.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Apply knowledge of history and theory to own arts practice
    (Theory Cluster)

  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Part time 2 days per week
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time 2 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
South Bank
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
6 months
Full time up to 4 days per week
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time up to 4 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Nambour
On Campus
16 Jul 2025
6 months
Art Focus: Full time 2 days per week
Wednesday, Thursday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Nambour

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

16 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Art Focus: Full time 2 days per week
Wednesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
1 year
Part time 1 day per week (Tuesday or Thursday) with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time 1 day per week (Tuesday or Thursday) with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
6 months
Full time 2 days per week Tuesday and Thursday with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 2 days per week Tuesday and Thursday with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
6 months
Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 4 days per week
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Cairns
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
up to 1 year
Part time
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Cairns

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

up to 1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
1 year
Part time 1 day per week (Tuesday or Thursday) with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

1 year
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time 1 day per week (Tuesday or Thursday) with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Townsville - Pimlico
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
6 months
Full time 2 days per week Tuesday and Thursday with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

demo

Townsville - Pimlico

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

6 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 2 days per week Tuesday and Thursday with optional studio access on
Monday, Friday
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0

    Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more

  • Concession: $1,405

    Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more

  • Subsidised: $2,485

    There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more

  • Full fee: $5,740

    This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank
On Campus
03 Feb 2025
4 terms
Part time 1 day per week
  • TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,080

    This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

demo

South Bank

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

03 Feb 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

4 terms
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Part time 1 day per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • TAFE at School Full Fee: $4,080

    This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE.

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom

Download Brochure

Certificate III in Visual Arts (CUA31120)
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

You must have completed year 10 or equivalent.
Enrolment Conditions apply for students under 17 years of age.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will also be required to have access to and bring to class some art materials and supplies. Details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation. Please note: the purchase of these items may incur additional costs of up to $250.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more