Program Overview

Master of Fine Arts

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) provides a development opportunity for students who have an interest in establishing themselves as professional artists or scholars, or career designers, filmmakers, or photographers. This Master's encourages participants to explore the latest trends, develop their own ideas, and build their confidence in the public realm.

Introduction

UC offers the MFA in Moving Image, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography, and Sculpture. Fine Arts provides opportunities to gain valuable exhibition experience through an ongoing professional relationship with Te Puna o Waiwhet | Christchurch Art Gallery. There is also an artist-in-residence programme, and our campus enjoys a busy schedule of visiting international artists who share their expertise with postgraduate students.

Entry Requirements

You will need to have completed:

• a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours, or an equivalent degree with good grades in relevant subjects; or
• significant professional practice or teaching experience. If English is not your first language, you are also required to meet UC's Postgraduate language requirements.

Degree Structure

This degree involves a submission of work in one of the areas of practice, or a combination of courses and submission of work. You document all your work and are expected to exhibit your work publicly at the conclusion of the degree. The Master of Fine Arts is normally completed over 1 year full-time, starting in February. Part-time applicants are welcome, and can complete the degree in 2 years.

Subjects and Courses

Major subjects and courses for the MFA are:

• Moving Image
• Design
• Painting
• Photography
• Sculpture

Fees

Domestic students

2025 tuition fee estimate: $8,845 (120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $9,376 (120 points)

International students

2025 tuition fee estimate: $42,200 (120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $43,850 (120 points)
2027 tuition fee estimate: $45,800 (120 points)

Student Services Levy (SSL)

2025 SSL: $9.72 per point ($1,166.40 per 120 points)
2026 SSL: $10.30 per point ($1,236.00 per 120 points)

Career Opportunities

Postgraduate Fine Arts study at UC exposes you to many facets of the art world outside of university. It helps to build an artist's confidence, and preparation for the exciting and open-ended career of a professional artist.