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Overview Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Overview Students' Work Modules Entry Requirements Fees How to Apply
Duration: 3 Years
Mode: Full-time

Take Control of Your Artistic Excellence

In the world of contemporary art, there is no better teacher than rigorous practice and industry experience–which you will experience in the dynamic NAFA Diploma in Fine Art programme. Bring your emerging artistic language to fruition through the diploma’s offerings of invaluable experiences and practice, and continually make new and exciting discoveries in relation to your art in NAFA’s state-of-the-art studio spaces and facilities.

As you liberally pursue your artistic inclinations, you will also hone your technical competencies and gain important theoretical knowledge to underscore your artistic practice. You will learn to become a critical and skilled art practitioner, poised to make waves in the cultural scenes of today and tomorrow. Whatever medium you choose to specialise in, a NAFA Diploma in Fine Art will certainly give you the head start you will need to stay at the forefront of the contemporary art world.

If you wish to further your career as a Ministry of Education (MOE) teacher, you may apply to the MOE when you are in Year 1 of your Diploma programme. Find out more about the Art and Music Teacher Training Sponsorship here. Upon completion of your diploma programme at NAFA, you will continue with a 2-year Diploma in Education at the National Institute of Education (NIE) at Nanyang Technological University to acquire further skills in classroom management and teaching strategies.


Develop Your Artistic Identity with an Experience-driven and Practice-led Curriculum

Discover your true calling as an artist and unleash your full artistic potential with our extensive experience- and practice-led curriculum, which includes field trips, artist residencies, networking opportunities with creative communities, internships and studio work for different mediums.

Thrive Under the Tutelage of Established Art Practitioners

Train under a team of the very best art practitioners in the industry today, who are committed to imparting invaluable artistic skills that will go a long way in helping you flourish personally, socially, intellectually and artistically.

Cultivate Critical 21st Century Skills

The skills of self-awareness, empathy and other social insights, when coupled with the opportunities to engage with creative communities will help you stay far ahead of the curve . You will be offered the opportunities to perfect these contemporary skills alongside your artistic competencies, to soar in the 21st century, shape the cultural landscape of tomorrow, and ultimately excel in your artistic career.

Modules

The following programme modules are applicable to students enrolled in August 2021 and after. NAFA students enrolled in AY2020/2021 and earlier are to refer to the Diploma Programme and Module Information Booklet on the StudentNet for the programme modules in your respective years of enrolment.

Code Title Semester Credits
VAF1001

Drawing Fundamentals

This module introduces the principles in drawing, developing an awareness of composition, observation skills, and familiarity with contemporary drawing practice.
1 4
VAF1011

2D Fundamentals

Be introduced to the fundamental elements and principles of two-dimensional design, including typography, colour theory, and spatial organization.
1 4
VAF1021

3D Fundamentals

Be introduced to making and thinking in 3-dimensional forms and structures, and gain confidence working with a diverse range of materials, construction techniques and processes.
1 4
VAF1031

Creative Thinking

This module focuses on cultivating and exploring a plethora of approaches to generate ideas, with the aim of creating more original and integrated options.
1 2
VAF1041

Introduction to Visual Arts

This module is designed to provide students with a sound working knowledge of the key historical concepts that inform the discussion of art and design in contemporary culture.
1 2
VAF1061

General Studies 1

This module establishes the core foundation of a productive life - encouraging students to be perceptive, reflective and intellectually selfconscious citizens in this diverse and rapidly changing world. It will introduce and prepare students with basic skills and knowledge needed for them to become responsible artists and designers.
1 2
VAF1062

General Studies 2

This module will further strengthen the foundation that is needed for our students to become responsible artists and designers. It will cover areas that will prepare them professionally, and equip them with knowledge of their rights and its application in this new digital world.
2 2
DFA1100

Contextual and Theoretical Studies 1

This module outlines and introduces the contextual, historical and theoretical aspects of art from Renaissance to Modernism. Students will engage in concepts of aesthetics through the study of key visual works, artists and thinkers. The pioneering Nanyang art movement will also be brought into focus as key reference.
2 4
DFA1104

Art Studio 1

This studio module allows for the exploration of medium from traditional to contemporary art, into three key clusters - 2D, 3D and 4D. Research methods such as observational skills and experimentations are introduced to nurture creative attitudes and foster critical thinking.
2 12
DFA2100

Contextual and Theoretical Studies 2

The module will focus on Modern art, in its contextual, historical and theoretical perspectives since the Industrial Revolution. It will also examine how Modern art inspired, influenced and affected art-making in Singapore during the 1980s - 90s.
1 4
DFA2104

Art Studio 2

Students will work in studios focusing on a medium of choice and develop the capacity for devising, defining and managing the semester’s work. They will be exposed to the methodologies behind 2D, 3D and 4D art; tracking towards conceptual practices by establishing artistic research interests and studio practice.
1 12
DFA2105

Professional Development 1

This module opens the space for students to define their values, aspirations, identify key choices and develop a plan to achieve their career goals and vision in fine art. Students will draw connections to their studio module supported by professional practice (portfolio, artist statement and biography).
1 4
DFA2200

Contextual and Theoretical Studies 3

This module positions its lens into contemporary art from late 20th century to present. Dilemmas and paradoxes pertaining contemporary art such as postmodernity, globalization, mega biennales, new media narratives, are studied and questioned.
2 4
DFA2204

Art Studio 3

This module prepares students to extend their studio practice; establish and intensify the way they work with their chosen medium, and position their art portfolio alongside their professional development.
2 12
DFA2205

Professional Development 2

This module will build knowledge and prepare students on how to engage with or in playing the role of agents, gallerists and arts administrators. Ethical issues in the art; such as, death of the artist, conservation, censorship and copyrights will be a key focus to the module.
2 4
ADE2002

Overseas Immersion

This module allows students to complete a 2-4 weeks overseas attachment with one of our overseas university partners. These cultural exchanges serve to broaden experiences and understanding of different art and design approaches.
1 4
ADE3001

Internship

This practical training attachment exposes students to work environments where they can gain a more hands-on understanding of professional practices.
1 20
ADE3002

Industrial Attachment

This practical training attachment exposes students to work environments where they can gain a more hands-on understanding of professional practices.
1 10
ADE3003

Industry Project

This is a project-based module which provides students the opportunity to conceptualise, plan and execute a project. It will be a real life client project that will allow students to put their studies into practice and help them develop a sense of responsibility as well as interpersonal skills in a professional environment.
1 10
ADE3004

Community Project

This is a project-based module with the aim of improving the lives of the community at large. Students will work collaboratively with non-profit organisations, non-governmental organisations, etc. to find solutions for issues identified.
1 10
DFA3204

Art Studio: Final Project

This final studio project responds to prevalent disprogramme in the arts of the 21st century and questions the role, value and site-specificity of art today. The contextual research will be fully challenged and (re)arranged to provoke and develop an authentic viewpoint.
2 14
DFA3205

Professional Development 3

Focused on the administrative and logistical planning of art practice(s), students will be taught on the standard procedures of grant application from government bodies, corporations and foundations, to crafting project proposals and organizing shows and exhibitions.
2 4
DFA1015

Digital Communication*

This elective module will introduce essential Adobe Software, including Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will learn to create their professional website as a tool to communicate their practice for a public audience and the industry.
1 and 2 2
DFA1016

Social Media Literacy In Arts*

This elective module will introduce popular social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Students will learn about the nuances of media literacy, online content development, and new developments in social media communication. This unit emphasises on developing media empathy, ethical consideration and social awareness in the arts.
1 and 2 2
DTD1001

Metalsmithing*

Students are introduced to the basic principles of handling raw materials. They will also learn various methods and materials employed in the fundamental techniques of object making.
1 and 2 2
DTD2010

Gemmology*

This module explores the science of gems: formation, history, physical properties, practical applications, and the methods and instruments used in the basic identification of the stones, colours and values.
1 and 2 2
DTD2011

Introduction to Rapid Prototyping*

Students will learn about the basics of rapid prototyping which can assist or aid them in the realization of ideas.
1 and 2 2
DTD2020

Introduction to Furniture Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the design principles, ergonomic studies and material application in furniture design with the help of workshop practice, concept ideation and presentation.
1 and 2 2
DTD2043

Introduction to Interior Design*

This cross-disciplinary elective introduces students to the basic principles in interior design, with an emphasis on programming, space planning, colour scheme and furniture arrangement for residential design.
1 and 2 2
DDM2900

Design and Brand Strategy*

This module allows students to discover the framework and strategies of developing a successful brand expression through case studies and analysis. Students will develop a critical understanding of the social (cultures of consumption) and psychological (emotions in marketing) aspects integrated within the context, which will allow students to develop the ability to make good design decisions.
1/2 4
DDM2901

Digital Photography and Publication*

In this module, students will learn to use photography as a medium of expression and communication. Students would explore the different perspectives of story-telling through images, and be equipped with the skills to compile them into a publication.
1/2 4
DDM2902

Packaging Design*

This module allows students to explore the different forms and functions of packaging design to provide packaging solutions that are appealing, functional and sustainable.
1/2 4
DFS1205

Textile Design and Innovation 1*

Students will be introduced to various techniques of textile decoration, such as screen-printing and laser cutting to develop their own decorative textiles and prints.
2 2
DFS2006

History of Asian Costume*

This module will expose students to Asian elements relating to fashion. Countries and topics covered include Malaysia/Indonesia (Kebaya), India (Sari), China (Cheong Sam and Qi Pao), Thailand (Traditional Court Uniform), Japan (Kimono) and Korea (Hanbok).
2 2
DFS2105

Textile Design and Innovation 2*

This module explores the manipulation of fabrics through dyeing, shibori, bonding, embossing and weaving to create distinctive textiles.
1 2
DFS2209

Costume Design*

This module allows students to gain knowledge in designing the styles and costumes in theatre, film or television productions. They will be exposed to topics such as reading and analysis of scripts, creation of the mood and style for a production, communication with the Director, distinguishing of characters, and planning of costume plot.
1/2 4
DAM2094

Arts Management Fundamentals*

This cross-disciplinary elective allows non-Arts Management students to explore management concepts and practices that are relevant to the arts and culture industry. Basic yet essential knowledge and skills in management, including skills unique to arts management, are explored in this module, and students are encouraged to observe, analyse and apply these skills in the day-to-day practice of the arts. Students will learn essential arts management skills and apply them in planning and decision-making within the context of running an arts company or organising an arts event.
1 and 2 2
DAM2095

Introduction to Arts Marketing*

This cross-disciplinary elective aims to equip students with basic marketing knowledge and skills essential to all artists. Students will be introduced to the key concepts of marketing and how it is applied to the arts. Students will also learn what motivates audiences to support the arts as well as the basic skills in how to market and promote their artworks.
1 and 2 2
DMU1041

Instrumental Studies: Guitar*

This module aims to equip students with functional guitar skills, including chord accompaniment, improvisation, basic ensemble skills, and melody playing.
2 1/2
DMU1042

Instrumental Studies: Gamelan*

This module will provide students with the practical skills of playing Javanese Gamelan for the performance of simple to slightly complex pieces, up to the level of Irama II. Each student will learn the basic playing techniques of the main instruments.
1/2 2
ACE1001

Speech Presentations*

Speech Presentations is a programme in writing and presenting speeches. It will impart skills that students need to present their ideas effectively in public. In a supportive classroom environment, students will learn to communicate their ideas effectively using verbal and written techniques.
1 & 2 2
ACE1101

Business Communication*

This module will cover the full spectrum of communications in the workplace; this ranges from effective online correspondences, to report writing, and verbal communication skills.
1 and 2 2
ACE1102

Entrepreneurship in the Arts*

This module will cover the different models of entrepreneurship in the arts industry, and strategies to succeed independently. Students are guided to create personal value and build a productive start-up in the arts with available resources (e.g., intelligence, insight, ethics, initiative and influence).
1 and 2 2
ACE1103

Starting Your Own Business*

This module equips students with essential knowledge in setting up a business. Students develop business literacy through learning basic business principles and processes such as licensing, financial management, start-up operations, and consumer behaviour.
1 and 2 2
ACR2000

Singapore Arts Scene*

This module creates awareness in students of issues and trends in the arts scene, and develops critical thinking skills through problem-based learning.
1 and 2 2
IDP2001

Interdisciplinary Project 2A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2
2
IDP2002

Interdisciplinary Project 2B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to introduce students to identify shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It aims to expose students to insights of the various disciplines, and become competent to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
1 or 2 4
IDP3001

Interdisciplinary Project 3A*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2
2
IDP3002

Interdisciplinary Project 3B*

This module is an open platform of at least 2 disciplines, designed to engage students in identifying shared concepts and methods of the various disciplines. It provides insights of the various disciplines through an interdisciplinary environment, and raise new questions using interdisciplinary perspectives.
1 or 2 4

*Electives

Show More

entry requirements

Find out about the specific entry requirements that apply to you.

NAFA hopes to attract applicants with the potential to become excellent arts practitioners. Applicants are selected by merit, based on the following criteria:

  • Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity
  • Educational Qualification
    • English Language Proficiency
  • Special Factor

Selection is competitive and is subject to the availability of places. However, the Academy may give consideration to talented applicants who excel in Artistic Talent and Creativity, but have not fully met the education qualification stated.


All applicants are to demonstrate their artistic potential through portfolio submission/admission test/audition as specified in each programme, in order to be considered for admission.

Applicants may select either (A) Portfolio Submission or (B) Admission Test.

(A) Portfolio Submission

You are to submit 10-15 images of recent art or design work, which should include a range of finished artwork as well as development work in preparing the finished artwork (sketches, mood boards, etc). Portfolios are assessed with the aim of identifying your creative and technical potential to undertake a programme in art and design.

(Allowed file types: .pdf,.jpg,.jpeg,.png,.gif,.tif,.tiff,.bmp. Maximum image file size: 5 MB)
(Allowed video file types: .mpeg,.mp4,.mov,.m4v,.avi,.wmv,.flv,.asf,.mpg,.mp3. Maximum image file size: 200 MB)

The work submitted should preferably be not more than two years old. It may be the result of assigned class projects or independent exploration. It is recommended that the selected examples of work reflect your interests, experience and competencies in art and design.

While compiling the contents of the portfolio, you may concentrate on a single medium or show work in a breadth of media. The portfolio may include, but is not limited to the following: drawing, prints, photography, painting, film, video, animation, sculpture, ceramics, digital work, etc.

You are also expected to write a statement of intent - in about 100 words - stating your reasons for pursuing a programme of study in art and design. Please include your goals, interests and aspirations for the future.

Submit Portfolio and All Required Application Documents by
29 December 2023
22 January 2024
12 February 2024
4 March 2024
22 March 2024
15 April 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

(B) Admission Test

The test consists of three sections:

  • Drawing from observation - where you will be tested on your ability to draw an actual object or a scene in front of you
  • Creative visualization - where you will be tested on your creativity and imagination to visualise an object or a scene
  • Written essay - where you will be tested on your ability to write and express your views on art and design

(Test Duration: 2.5 hours)

Admission Test Date
24 January 2024
28 March 2024
30 May 2024

Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

Please note that you will be notified of the confirmed admission test date upon submission of your application, all supporting documents and application fee payment.

Minimum Educational Qualifications Required

  • Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level: Aggregate score of 25 points or better in 4 GCE ‘O’ Level subjects, excluding English.

    Applicants who are active in their Secondary Schools’ Co-curricular Activities (CCA) may gain up to 2 CCA points. The CCA points can be used to improve their EQ aggregate score for admission consideration.

    Types of bonus points No. of bonus points awarded
    Grades of A1–A2 2 points
    Grades of B3–C6 1 point
  • Singapore Integrated Programme: Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • School of The Arts (SOTA): Successful completion of Year 4 or higher.
  • Institute of Technical Education (ITE): Full-time Higher Nitec or Nitec.
Successful completion of at least 10 years of education.

Eligible international students will be able to use their mid-year examination results to apply for diploma programmes at NAFA. Applicants will be given conditional offer if they are successful in their portfolio interview/audition selection. Applicants are still required to submit their year-end examination results and meet the admission requirements of the respective programmes. Any applicant who does not meet the admission requirements will have his/her conditional offer revoked.

The minimum English Language proficiency requirement:

  • Grade C6 at GCE O-Levels
  • TOEFL iBT 50
  • TOEFL 500
  • IELTS Academic Band 5
  • SAT score of 480 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing component)
  • Duolingo score of 80
  • Qualifications equivalent to any of the above

Recognition is accorded for prior achievements in areas relevant to intended studies.

The Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) allows applicants to apply for and receive conditional admission to NAFA prior to receiving their final grades.

The Diploma EAE application window for the AY2025 intake is from 17 June to 28 June 2024. Please check your application eligibility and apply online here.

The EAE is open to graduating GCE O-Level students, final-year Nitec and Higher Nitec students from the Institute of Technical Education, and graduating Integrated Programme (IP)/International Baccaularette or (IB) Year 4 students.

Applicants applying via Diploma EAE will go through the following process and timeline:


Process


Applicants to:
  1. Apply online here from 17 June to 28 June 2024. Submit the required documents for verification within 5 working days from the application date or by 5 July 2024, whichever is earlier.

  2. Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students.

  3. Submit Portfolio for programmes under the Faculty of Art & Design from 17 June to 12 July 2024 online here (3D Design/Design & Media/ Fashion Studies/Fine Art). There is no Admission Test for EAE

  4. Submit Personal Statement and Testimonial for Diploma in Arts Management from 17 June to 12 July 2024 online here

  5. Attend Audition for programmes under the Faculty of Performing Arts (Dance/Music/Theatre). Audition dates are from 22 July to 2 August 2024. More information on the audition will be sent to you via email a week before the audition date

Please refer to the section ‘Potential in Artistic Talent and Creativity’ under each programme for more information about the above.


Offer and Acceptance
  • Applicants will receive notification of the application outcome via email from 15 August to 29 August 2024. Successful applicants should confirm acceptance of their offers by the deadline stipulated
  • Applicants who accept their offers at this stage will be guaranteed a place, as long as they meet the criteria stated under Entry Requirement for each programme

Withdrawal
  • Should applicants wish to withdraw their acceptance, they must submit their withdrawal notice to [email protected]
  • Applicants who had accepted their EAE offer but fail to make the required payment by the stipulated deadline will have their offers withdrawn
  • Applicants who fail to meet the admission criteria will have their offers withdrawn

Entry Requirements for EAE


For O-Level Students
Students who have registered to sit for the GCE O-Level examinations in the year of Early Admission Exercise (EAE)

For ITE Students
ITE students from full-time Higher Nitec/Nitec courses may apply for early admission. They can use their preliminary examination results (cumulative GPA of up to the 3rd term for a 2-year Higher Nitec/Nitec course or 5th term for a 3-year Nitec course) for application. The minimum cumulative GPA for early admission is 3.0.

For Integrated Programme (IP)/ International Baccalaureate (IB) Year 4 Students
IP and IB Year 4 students may use their mid-year examination results to apply for EAE.


Confirmation of Conditional Offers for Diploma Admission

Successful applicants for the EAE will be given conditional offers and are still required to submit the following document, as applicable:
  • GCE O-Level results with an aggregate of not more than 25 points for 4 subjects excluding English
  • Certificate and Academic Transcript for Nitec or Higher Nitec
  • Completion of IP Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
  • Completion of IB Year 4 (End-Year Examination Results)
Any applicant who fails to provide documentary evidence of having met the admission requirements by the deadline stipulated by NAFA will have his/her conditional offer withdrawn.

Applicants may receive module exemption of up to 60 credits, if they have taken and passed the same or similar modules in another institution. The granting of exemption and advanced standing may be subject to applicants passing a Portfolio Interview, Audition or Admission Test. Application for module exemption may be subject to a Portfolio Interview or Audition.

Applicants with GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and IB Career-Related Certificate (IBCC)

Applicants who have completed GCE A-Level or IB Diploma will be eligible to be considered for module exemption (up to 40 credits) in the relevant programmes. Applicants from SOTA who have completed Year 4 and above are eligible to receive advanced standing (Year 1, Semester 2 or Year 2, Semester 1) in relevant Diploma programmes subject to their final or preliminary examination results.

Applicants with Higher Nitec/ Nitec:

Full-time ITE graduates from the following courses are eligible to apply for module exemption:

  • Higher Nitec in Games Art & Design
  • Higher Nitec in Motion Graphics
  • Higher Nitec in Visual Effects
  • Higher Nitec in Visual Mechandising
  • Nitec in Digital Animation
  • Nitec in Interactive Media Design
  • Nitec in Product Design
  • Nitec in Visual Communication
  • Nitec in Visual Effects

How to Apply

Get started on your quest to become an art & design professional today! 

Apply online

Apply online here from 2 October 2023 to 31 March 2024. The application is extended to 15 May 2024.

For all above-mentioned programmes except Diploma in Arts Management ^, select either Portfolio Submission or Admission Test in the application portal.

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents

Keep the Application Acknowledgement for your reference and submit the required documents for verification within five working days from the application date at:

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
Campus 1 (Admissions counter at level 1)
80 Bencoolen Street
Singapore 189655

Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm
Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays

Alternatively, you can email a copy of the required documents to [email protected].

Required documents for verification:
  • NRIC for Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents. Passport and valid Student's Pass (if applicable) for international students.
  • Academic certificates and transcripts (GCE O-Level or NITEC/Higher NITEC and GCE N-Level or other equivalent qualifications). Certificates in a foreign language must be translated to English.
  • CCA record (if any).
  • English proficiency document (if applicable), e.g. TOEFL, TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, SAT, Duolingo or equivalent qualification.

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online

Make payment of the Application Fee at the cashier counter in NAFA or online at https://payment.nafa.edu.sg/Students. Applicants who are paying online will be required to upload the above documents during application.

Submit your portfolio/personal statement or receive test advisory

Submit your portfolio/personal statement or receive test advisory, according to the option you have chosen in Step 1. 

  • Option A (Portfolio Submission): Submit your portfolio here after completion of the online application.

    Submit Portfolio and All Required Application Documents by
    29 December 2023
    22 January 2024
    12 February 2024
    4 March 2024
    22 March 2024
    15 April 2024

    Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.


  • Option B (Admission Test): Receive a test advisory on the date of the Admission Test from the Student Admissions Office after verification of the required documents and payment of the Application Fee. Attend the Admission Test at NAFA with the required materials as indicated in the test advisory

    Admission Test Date
    24 January 2024
    28 March 2024
    30 May 2024

    Note: You will be notified of the outcome of your application 4 to 6 weeks after your portfolio interview or audition. Some application outcomes may take longer than expected.

    Please note that you will be notified of the confirmed admission test date upon submission of your application, all supporting documents and application fee payment.

  • ^ For Diploma in Arts Management: Submit personal statement and testimonial here. Sents may be asked to attend an interview in person or via the web.

Application outcome

Receive the outcome of your application via email within 4 – 6 weeks after your Portfolio Submission/Interview/Audition or Admission Test.