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Mission Statement
The AFAD aims to strengthen creative and critical thinking, support independent artistic and scientific research and artistic creation, as well as to encourage creative spirit. It strives to attract quality artists, theoreticians and socially and culturally active professionals who think differently, so the school is shaped by a plurality of opinions driven by intellectual vigour. The teachers have the ambition to bring up a vital and active generation of young artists who are also recognised in their professional life. The Academy also pays proper attention to regular presentations of study outcomes (exhibitions of the works of our graduate students at galleries and other locations in Bratislava). Many students begin their exhibition activities already during their studies or win important awards and acknowledgement. Moreover, the Academy establishes numerous partnerships that provide the students with the challenges where they can apply their creativity, discover new technologies and use of materials. At the same time, it seeks to communicate with the external environment, react to social challenges and offer its cooperation.
International Role
The AFAD’s main strategic goal in the field of internationalisation and foreign policy is building high-quality and strategic partnerships with an adequate number of partner schools and institutions which will create preconditions for implementing partnerships at all levels: student/scholar/non-scholar mobility, cooperation in the field of doctoral studies and research, the exchange of scholar, research, artistic and publishing experience and innovations, mutual support in study programmes, mutual help and participation in conceiving and organising promotional activities.
National Role
The Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava is one of the largest and oldest Slovak institutions dedicated to university education in various artistic programs. Throughout its long history, the Academy has reflected all historical changes and political ideologies, yet it has always remained committed to its progressive character. Today, much of its activity is focused on artistic and research endeavors, as well as on expanding international cooperation within the European education, art, and research area. The Academy has established a strong reputation among art schools in Central Europe, while continually strengthening its position within the European Union.
Main Focus
AFAD in Bratislava focuses on providing education in the fields of fine arts, design, and art and culture sciences. The academy offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, emphasizing a blend of practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and research. Fine Arts: Programs include Digital Arts, Painting, Printmaking, Photography, Intermedia, Applied Arts, and Design. Design: The Department of Visual Communication aims to prepare students for professional activities in all areas of visual communication design. Art and Culture Sciences: The Department of Theory and History of Art provides students with a broad understanding of art history and culture, encouraging critical thinking about their own artistic creation. VŠVU is committed to research in the fields of culture and art, coordinating projects that enhance its role as a significant educational institution in Central Europe.
Faculties and Departments
Applied Art (Ceramics; Glass; Metal and Jewel); Architecture; Conservation and Restoration; Design (Experimental Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Transport Design); Digital Arts; Intermedia; Sculpture, Object, Installation; Painting; Photography and New Media; Printmaking and Other Media (Free Printmaking; Illustration); Textiles (Fashion Design; Fiber Art; Textile Design); Visual Communication; Theory and history of art.
Bachelor Level Programs
Applied Art (Ceramics; Glass; Metal and Jewel); Architecture; Conservation and Restoration; Design (Experimental Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Transport Design); Digital Arts; Intermedia; Sculpture, Object, Installation; Painting; Photography and New Media; Printmaking and Other Media (Free Printmaking; Illustration); Textiles (Fashion Design; Fiber Art; Textile Design); Visual Communication; Theory and history of art.
Master Level Programs
Applied Art (Ceramics; Glass; Metal and Jewel); Architecture; Conservation and Restoration; Design (Experimental Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Transport Design); Digital Arts; Intermedia; Sculpture, Object, Installation; Painting; Photography and New Media; Printmaking and Other Media (Free Printmaking; Illustration); Textiles (Fashion Design; Fiber Art; Textile Design); Visual Communication; Theory and history of art.
Research Activity and Main Areas
The concept of the development of artistic and scientific research activities of the Academy of Fine Arts is based on the assumption that research is not only a basic starting point and accompanying process, but also a tool for the development and qualitative growth of education. In the field of art higher education, research is specific and touches on significantly differentiated study programs in the media. Artistic and scientific research activity in the educational process within individual fields of study is directly generated at the VŠVU from the results of creative activity and is a specific alternative to basic research as we understand it in another context. Artistic and scientific research activities support the qualitative development of the school, conditions the position of the university at home and in the international context. It is one of the most important goals of the school development strategy and competitiveness within the university environment in Slovakia.
Doctorate Level Programs
Applied Art (Ceramics; Glass; Metal and Jewel); Architecture; Conservation and Restoration; Design (Experimental Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Transport Design); Digital Arts; Intermedia; Sculpture, Object, Installation; Painting; Photography and New Media; Printmaking and Other Media (Free Printmaking; Illustration); Textiles (Fashion Design; Fiber Art; Textile Design); Visual Communication; Theory and history of art.
Subject Areas for Exchange Students
Applied Art (Ceramics; Glass; Metal and Jewel); Architecture; Conservation and Restoration; Design (Experimental Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Transport Design); Digital Arts; Intermedia; Sculpture, Object, Installation; Painting; Photography and New Media; Printmaking and Other Media (Free Printmaking; Illustration); Textiles (Fashion Design; Fiber Art; Textile Design); Visual Communication.
Application Deadlines
1 November; 1 May
Teaching Languages
Slovak and English
Semester Dates
Winter semester: September- January; Spring semester: February- June
Cost of Living Per Month (Studying and Living)
appx 600- 800 Eur
