Along with its new art strategy, La Trobe University has proposed changes to its Bachelor of Creative Arts.

Confidential documents provided to the Bendigo Advertiser suggest majors in fine arts, photography and graphic design be discontinued in Bendigo from the first semester of the new year.

A new major called Arts and Design Practices would take their place. 

Drawing, painting and digital design would be the mediums and methods offered. 

If the curriculum changes, which have yet to be approved, go ahead they will apply only to new students. 

La Trobe University said existing students would be able to complete their current courses, unless they would prefer to study the new curriculum. 

An internal consultation is underway, with staff to provide feedback by July 29. 

The university expects to release a final change decision by August 19.

The proposal would affect staff, with changes to the organisational structure and positions broached.

The university has suggested a total of 7.3 full time equivalent be made redundant.

But it would seek to employ 4.8 full time equivalent new employees, including an Associate Professor, and revise three existing roles if the changes were confirmed.  

A spokesperson said La Trobe University sought to raise the seniority of staff.

The Bachelor of Creative Arts has been under review for several years.

La Trobe identified significant issues with the current curriculum in its confidential documents, including poor student satisfaction and retention, too many subjects being offered to too few students, a confusing curriculum structure, and no clear philosophy to the degree structure. 

La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor John Dewar welcomed contributions or suggestions to assist La Trobe to deliver on its ambition to “elevate the role of creative arts as a significant contributor to the social, cultural and economic welfare of the vibrant, connected and creative communities we serve.”

“This is not about saving money – this is about improving what we do,” he said.

Bendigo Student Association president Carli Spence said the association would support all students studying the discipline and take “appropriate action” to help concerned students.

“We welcome students to come and talk to us – we will assist in any way we can,” she said.