Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D] [Fine Arts] From University of Auckland

Auckland, North IslandLocation

UniversitySchool type

Estd1883established year

30041enrollment

Public

7.3/10

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Doctor of Philosophy [Ph.D] (Fine Arts)

4 years

Full Time

On Campus

Field of Study:

$4,289 /Yr

NZ$7,659 /Yr

Content Curator | Updated on - Jul 22, 2026

The Doctor of Fine Arts (DFA) is an advanced studio-based research degree, encompassing research and practice. DocFA study is an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the field of contemporary art and/or design.
Suitable for both experienced practitioners and emerging artists, the DocFA involves both research and practice. Students will be supervised by a committed team of professionally active, internationally recognized staff from Elam School of Fine Arts and, if appropriate, other schools/departments within the University of Auckland.
The doc is the highest-level university qualification in Fine Arts at the University of Auckland that is predominantly founded on studio-based practice. Like the Ph.D., it is expected to be a contribution to knowledge in your chosen field. Candidates work on advanced-level research in a manner relevant to medium-based or post-medium practices throughout the course of the degree.
Alternatively, the University also offers the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Fine Arts with a creative practice component. If students wish to undertake a solely written thesis, then a Ph.D. might be for them. For more information see or contact our academic department postgraduate advisors to discuss your options.

Year	1st Year Fees
Tuition Fees	$4289 (NZD 7659)

Head	Avg Cost Per Year
On-Campus Expenses	$6720 (NZD 12000)
Off-Campus Expenses	$5947 (NZD 10620)

Eligible candidates can enrol and start their PhD at any time of year. You must enrol within 6 months of your unconditional offer.

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CV/Resume: Outline of academic achievements and/or awards, publications, relevant work, and/or volunteer experience.
Transcript: A PDF copy of all post-secondary transcripts within the application or in Carleton Central.
Two Letter of Reference: Referees (Teachers, guidance counselors, or Professors) should comment on academics, and that references should submit along with the application system.
Statement of Intent: Explain the reasons or intentions for pursuing studies in this program, including a description of prior experience.
Writing Sample: Students applying for a job, internship, may be asked to provide a writing sample that allows an employer or graduate program to judge a student's ability to convey a written message.
Aptitude test results: Used to make inferences about competencies, capabilities, and future performance on the job of the students.
Preference Form: Some departments require students to fill in a preference form that will ask to outline their preferences for the program specialization, research area, or faculty supervisor.
ELP Scores: Students have to submit their English language proficiency scores like IELTS, TOEFL, or other test scores.