Programme Structure - Myndlistaskólinn í Reykjavík

The Reykjavík School of Visual Arts offers a range of study options aligned with the Icelandic Qualifications Framework for Education, with particular emphasis on its full‑day programmes at the higher qualification levels.

Third-level skill proficiency – Full-day Programmes:

Two Visual Arts Programmes designed to provide comprehensive, immersive training in core artistic disciplines.

Fourth-level skill proficiency – Full-day Programmes:

Four Advanced Programmes offering in‑depth, specialised study for students preparing for further education or professional practice in the arts.

First-level skill proficiency:

An inclusive Visual Arts Programme tailored for students with special needs, offered as a half‑day programme.

Non-Icelandic applicants are advised to read the school's language policy. Also note, non-European applicants are responsible for acquiring their visa/residency permits.

THIRD LEVEL SKILL PROFICIENCY VISUAL ARTS PROGRAMME #1
Two-Year Programme to Matriculation

This programme provides a supportive environment for creative individuals to complete their upper secondary education. It spans four semesters and includes 140 upper secondary credits (35 credits per semester).

To meet the matriculation requirement of 200 credits, students must complete 60 credits from other upper secondary schools before enrolling.

Graduates are well-prepared to pursue further studies in arts and humanities at universities and similar institutions.

More about two-year matriculation programme

Admission Requirements:

Completion of at least 60 credits from other upper secondary schools--
- 10 credits at Level 2 in Icelandic
- 10 credits at Level 2 in English
- 5 credits at Level 2 in Danish
- 5 credits at Level 2 in Mathematics
- 30 elective credits in languages, humanities, and sciences
Successful completion of the school’s entrance project assignments.

THIRD LEVEL SKILL PROFICIENCY VISUAL ARTS PROGRAMME #2
One-Year Preparatory Studies

Designed for students with little or no background in visual arts, this intensive programme introduces key modules from the two-year course. It is ideal for those preparing for university studies in art, architecture, or design.

More about one-year preparatory studies

Admission Requirements:

A matriculation exam from an upper secondary school
Successful completion of the school’s entrance project assignments.

First Level Skill Proficiency Visual Arts Programme
One-Year Half-Day Programme for Students with Special Needs

This programme is intended for learners with intellectual disabilities who have graduated from an upper secondary school vocational program or an equivalent course of study.

In the programme, students learn about visual art and design.
They learn various methods that people use to create visual art, including different working approaches and techniques.
Students learn vocabulary and descriptions that are used to discuss visual art and design. They also learn how to use these concepts and terms to create their own artwork and design projects.
They study art history and discuss artworks that people have created. Students also learn about contemporary art and talk about the kinds of work that artists are making today.

Teaching takes place from morning until noon, every weekday. Some classes are conducted with students from the other programmes.
The programme lasts for two semesters, the autumn semester and the spring semester.
Each semester is 15 credits, and in total the programme comprises 30 credits.

FOURTH LEVEL SKILL PROFICIENCY ADVANCED PROGRAMMES
Our advanced programmes offer an in-depth, two-year course of study in four specialized fields. Graduates achieve Level 4 competence according to the Icelandic Qualifications Framework for Education.

Fields of Study:

For those continuing to higher education, the transferability of credits depends on the policies of the chosen institution.