This flexible postgraduate program prepares students to work as creative practitioners in community settings. It develops practical and enterprise skills for a sustainable career in socially engaged art, with a focus on ethical engagement and fundraising. Students benefit from industry-based learning, small class sizes, and support for career development.

Degree Overview:

Focus:

This program prepares students to work as creative practitioners within community settings, outside of traditional cultural spaces like galleries or museums.

Objectives:

• Understand how artists apply their skills in social contexts.
• Develop practical and enterprise skills for a sustainable career.
• Broaden understanding of professional practice for those already working in socially engaged art or those who want to.
• Gain a formal qualification in a flexible manner.

Target Audience:

• Individuals with significant workplace experience seeking a formal qualification.
• Recent graduates of fine, contemporary, or performing arts courses wanting to apply their skills to community projects.

Delivery:

Flexible study options are available to accommodate those already working or wishing to.

Benefits:

• Gain qualifications for management positions within cultural organizations and festivals.
• Benefit from small class sizes for interaction and support.
• Develop as a reflective practitioner aware of both theory and practice in festivals and cultural management.
• Continue employment while studying.
• Learn from experts in diverse areas of applied and socially engaged art practices.
• Benefit from the program's location near the Edinburgh Festival.
• Be part of an international student cohort.
• Engage in industry-based learning with real-world assignments.
• Gain insights from key cultural organizations.

Outline:

Structure:

Complete three 20-credit modules for a PgCert (60 credits).

Modules:

• Core Modules:
• Social Practice: Working With People (20 credits):
Develops practical skills for engaging with people, including dialogue, interpersonal skills, and group facilitation.

Exit Awards:

• PgCert in Applied Arts and Social Practice (60 credits)
• Can be used as credit towards the MA Applied Arts and Social Practice.

Progression:

After completing the PgCert, you can complete the MA on a part-time basis by taking three additional modules and a dissertation.

Single Module Option:

You can also register as an associate student to complete a single module for CPD.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Reports
• Exams
• Presentations

Assessment Criteria:

Described as "the most practical of the modules" where students can engage with groups and communities to expand their skillsets and experience in working with people.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Case Studies
• Projects

Industry-based learning:

Students are required to undertake industry-based learning opportunities to put theory into practice. The program supports students in finding opportunities, but you are responsible for securing your own arrangements aligned with your interests.

Class Sizes:

Normally, there are around 10-15 students enrolled in the course each year.

Teaching Staff:

Information about the teaching staff is available on the program's webpage and includes details of their expertise and experience.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

This course aims to help students develop freelance careers and meet the growing needs of organizations with community-based outreach departments.

Career Support:

The program provides support for students to develop their careers, including:

• Career advice and guidance
• Help with CV writing and interview skills
• Networking opportunities with industry professionals

Career Outcomes:

• Freelance artist
• Community arts worker
• Arts administrator
• Cultural manager
• Arts educator

Other:

Funded Places:

A number of funded places are available for students starting in September 2024.

Queen Margaret University

Overview:

Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a public university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is known for its person-centered and career-focused approach to education and teaching, with a commitment to shaping a better world. QMU boasts widely recognized expertise in various fields, including business, creative industries, education, health and rehabilitation, and social sciences.

Services Offered:

QMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Learning Facilities:

Library, IT services, remote access, Canvas, QMU Portal, ePortfolio

Student Support:

Careers and Employability, Students' Union, QMU Sports Centre, Clinics, Accommodation, Finance Office

Campus Life:

Eat and Drink on Campus, QMU Online Shop, Blogs, Ask a Student a Question

Student Life and Campus Experience:

QMU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:

Community Feel:

An airy and bright campus with a strong sense of community.

Student Services:

Ready access to student services, food outlets, accommodation, sports facilities, and social spaces.

Beautiful Grounds:

A beautiful campus with plenty of outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Person-Centered Approach:

QMU focuses on individual student needs and career development.

Career-Focused Education:

The university emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience.

Renowned Expertise:

QMU has a strong reputation for research and innovation in various fields.

Supportive Campus Environment:

Students are provided with a welcoming and supportive community.

Academic Programs:

QMU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Study:

Various undergraduate degrees across different disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's degrees and postgraduate research opportunities.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

Short courses and online programs for professional development.

Online Learning:

100% online master's courses for flexible learning.

Other:

• QMU is committed to social justice and nurturing individuals while promoting collective support.
• The university actively engages with the community through outreach programs and events.
• QMU has a strong international presence with a diverse student body and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
• The university is undergoing a transformation of its teaching and learning spaces to enhance the student experience.