The Master's programme builds on the philosophy of the Post Graduate Diploma and provides a coursework degree for artists of high standing who have been led either by formal study, professional achievement or both, to the point where a period of intensive studio study, and a rigorous exploration of related theoretical issues, will extend their practice to the highest expectations of artistic achievement in an academic context.

Candidates for the Master's degree are expected to present original work which demonstrates a substantial development in relation to the candidate's prior practice, and which demonstrates intellectual and critical rigour of a high standard.  The course is designed to prepare graduates to make a significant contribution to the visual arts.  Success in the arts' industry requires practitioners to possess advanced abilities, not just in studio practice, but in writing, research and argument, and it has become incumbent upon the higher education sector to provide and foster professional development accordingly.

OBJECTIVES

On completion of the course, graduates should be able to:

1. Demonstrate advanced techniques and skills appropriate to their personal artistic development;
2. Demonstrate individual research skills through studio practice and research;
3. Analyse and critically respond to problems of art practice;
4. Relate current theoretical standpoints in art theory to their own work and artistic development;
5. Demonstrate their role as articulate professionals in their specific area of the visual arts;
6. Contribute to the professional context of their specific area of the visual arts within the broad area of educational and social contexts.

TEACHING METHOD

Whilst the course is appropriately described as a Master by coursework (plus dissertation and exhibition), it has some of the characteristics of a Master by Research, the course comprising for the most part units which are distinguishable by their aims and objectives rather than their cognitive content, which is to be defined in large measure by student need.  The course accordingly aims to balance individual learning with group activities, to allow students to pursue their own directions, but with a concomitant provision of regular opportunities for interchanging ideas with other students as well as staff in group sessions.  Cultural Studies, Art History and Theory and Aesthetics and Criticism are enabling studies which encourage all students to engage in constructive criticism of their own art works, to see their work in context and to present information and arts' advocacy in a clear and rational manner.

Applicants must apply directly to the University.  The interviewing panel will normally comprise the Master of Arts course coordinator and two studio lecturers from the School.  Qualified applicants will subsequently be invited to submit a portfolio, a proposal of the practical project to be carried out on the Master programme, and a statement outlining their reasons for seeking admission.  Students completing the Post Graduate Diploma must apply for the second year for the MAVA and be interviewed with a proposal and portfolio.

ELIGIBILITY

Candidates are expected to:

• hold a first degree or equivalent in Visual Arts from a recognised institution;
• demonstrate recent practical experience in the visual arts; and
• submit a written proposal of work to be under-taken during the Master programme.

CRITERIA

Admission to the Master of Arts programme will be based on the following criteria:

• Quality of portfolio of practical work.
• Quality of undergraduate academic record (normally above average or highly competent marks for the relevant studio units in the undergraduate degree or its equivalent).
• Curriculum vitae and written and verbal statements regarding the proposed Master of Arts (Visual Arts) project.

All applicants will be asked to provide the names of two referees (e.g., lecturers or other appropriate persons) who would be willing to comment on their artistic and academic competence.  Availability of places will depend on the School's capacity to accommodate the proposed practical studio work and to supervise it.

EXEMPTIONS

Students achieving a first class undergraduate honours award or equivalent can apply for exemptions to the first year of the program.  Other post graduate awards may also qualify for exemptions.  Please refer to the SOCA post graduate handbook for details of articulation between programs.

COURSE DURATION

The duration of the course which is to be offered in the internal mode only, is two years full-time or the part-time equivalent. 

The Master of Arts (Visual Arts) requires the successful completion of 240 credit points.