Rhodes University

Bachelor of Fine Art

Culture and Arts - Visual Arts

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Purpose and Rationale

The degree was originally intended to equip graduates with the skills necessary to establish themselves as practicing artists or commercial photographers. However, today most students who wish to follow the former route will subsequently undertake postgraduate study to deepen their understanding. Similarly, others use the BFA as the basis for an MA by thesis in Art History.

The BFA is also increasingly common preparation for related careers in fields such as community arts, arts administration, curation, and other art delivery careers. It is also suitable for areas like illustration, 3D computer modeling, and web-site design. Career outlets are not confined to the above, as research in the UK has shown that Fine Art graduates have among the widest diversity of subsequent careers.

One reason for this is their familiarity with lateral thinking and innovative problem solving, making them highly suitable for an increasingly fluid employment environment that values such transferable skills.

Outcomes

  1. The BFA graduate is competent to apply specialist artistic knowledge and skills to the initiation, planning and production of creative visual problem solving in a specific medium or range of medium.
  2. The BFA graduate has an understanding of art history as a cultural construct that is open to question and analysis with a range of critical tools and from a variety of standpoints.
  3. Communicate effectively.
  4. Co-operate with others to pursue the common good.
  5. Demonstrate an understanding of the ever-expanding and ever-changing nature of knowledge and appreciate the need for life-long learning.

Assessment Criteria

BFA Graduates Outcome Criteria:

  1. Independent Thinking and Learning

    • Demonstrate capacity for independent thinking and learning.

  2. Knowledge and Understanding

    • Demonstrate knowledge of contemporary art making and critical theory.

  3. Visual Investigation and Problem Solving

    • Competence in self-directed visual investigation and problem solving.

  4. Drawing as a Visualizing Tool

    • Use drawing for visual problem solving.

  5. Formal Aesthetic Values

    • Proficiency in using line, tone, color, and form in art production.

  6. Fabrication Skills

    • Proficiency in choosing and applying fabrication skills in chosen media.

  7. Verbal Articulation

    • Ability to articulate creative aims and intentions verbally.

  8. Evaluation Skills

    • Ability to evaluate the outcome of the art making process.

  9. Transferable Skills

    • Experience in generic and transferable skills, particularly creative thinking.

  10. Digital Technology

    • Experience in applications of digital technology in visual arts.

  11. Integrity and Sincerity

    • Apply integrity and sincerity to art production.

  12. Cultural Reflection

    • Produce art reflecting the culture and context of production.

BFA Graduates Skills and Competencies:

  1. Familiarity with Critical Positions

    • Demonstrate familiarity with post-modern critical positions.

  2. Research Proficiency

    • Proficient in using research resources and academic essay writing.

  3. Communication Skills

    • Use oral and written language effectively, present material in an articulate manner.

  4. Adaptability

    • Creative, flexible, and adaptable in art creation and production.

  5. Social Awareness

    • Incorporate appreciation of Southern African society into visual problem solving.

Learners Outcome Criteria:

  1. Language and Communication

    • Use oral and written language effectively.

  2. Presentation Skills

    • Present material and construct arguments in an organised manner.

  3. Technology Usage

    • Use appropriate technology for communication.

  4. Cultural Sensitivity

    • Demonstrate sensitivity to the multi-cultural nature of South African society.

Learners Skills and Values:

  1. Teamwork

    • Work effectively in a team or group.

  2. Perspective and Values

    • Recognize and acknowledge different perspectives and values.

  3. Ethical Awareness

    • Understand moral and ethical implications in judgements.

Research and Assessment:

  • Research Skills

    • Demonstrate awareness of research techniques and approaches.

  • Assessment Procedures

    • Adhere to Rhodes University Assessment Policy.

  • Integrated Assessment

    • Incorporate assessment elements including formative and summative assessments.

The above criteria and skills aim to ensure that BFA graduates meet the desired outcomes of their qualification through a comprehensive assessment process aligned with the university's policies.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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Rhodes University
Rhodes University
Description
Rhodes University is a public research university located in Grahamstown, South Africa. Established in 1904, it is one of the oldest universities in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, commerce, and law. Rhodes University is known for its strong academic reputation and commitment to excellence in teaching and research. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations and clubs. The university also places a strong emphasis on community engagement and social responsibility, encouraging students to actively contribute to the local community and address societal challenges.
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.