| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Fine Art MA/MFA at UCA Canterbury
Overview
The Fine Art MA/MFA course at UCA Canterbury is designed to advance your studio practice through expert teaching and specialist facilities. The course fosters a strong sense of community and group responsibility within the studio, creating a space to work that is informed, critical, and supportive.
What You'll Study
The course content may be subject to change. Curriculum content is provided as a guide.
Integrated Pre-Masters (if undertaken)
Our Integrated Pre-Master's course will prepare you for postgraduate study by improving your academic and creative skills before your degree begins. You'll build a portfolio of work while exploring your subject specialism and benefit from personal development tutoring that will support your academic growth and help refine your specialism.
Term One
- Experimental Studio: This unit is designed to encourage you to take an experimental approach to your studio/post-studio practices. You will be challenged to engage in new processes, methods, and ideas outside of your immediate comfort zone to develop advanced and evolving contributions to your practice.
- Research Contexts: Exploring the design, construction, and expression of art practice as a process of research, in this unit you will be introduced to critical research methodologies which you can then employ in your independent research enquiries.
Term Two
- Studio Practice: You will use this unit to develop styles and approaches articulated at postgraduate level aligning your aims within your own practice. You will consider appropriate theory and themes in contemporary art practice and how it might inform the work that you wish to create.
- Professional Contexts: Focused on professional development, this unit engages students with professional contexts through opportunities and/or projects developed with partner organisations. Through group work and individual research, within this unit students will establish and develop a sense of their position in relation to their identified subjects, interests, and practice areas. This unit also includes the opportunity to develop a creative business start-up or collaborative practice project.
Term Three
- Major Project: As the culmination of your studies, you will be able to undertake a sustained, in-depth, and critically informed research inquiry. You will define your practice through a substantial body of work and an understanding of how it sits in relation to others — identified industries and/or professional contexts, collaborators, readers, and audiences.
MFA – Advanced Practice (if undertaken)
The extension of your degree to an MFA means studying this Advanced Practice unit in addition to the units listed above. This unit is dedicated to developing, extending, and furthering your professional practice. Through advanced research methods, you will have to demonstrate the skills, knowledge, confidence, and originality that you have developed as a curatorial practitioner. You will be supported in preparing PhD applications, curating exhibitions, organising public events, and seeking external platforms to work with artists and engage audiences.
Specifications
- Course Information 2025/26 entry
- Course Information Annex for Integrated Pre-Masters 2025/26 entry
- Student Regulations
Fees and Funding
UK
- MA Course: £10,500 (2025/26, full-time), £5,250 (2025/26, part-time, year 1)
- MFA Course: £7,000 (2025/26, full-time, year 1)
EU
- MA Course: £10,500 (2025/26)
- MFA Course: £7,000 (2025/26, year 1)
International
- MA Course: £18,000 (2025/26), £17,500 (Integrated International Pre-Masters course - Sept & Jan), £8,750 (Integrated International Pre-Masters course - May)
- MFA Course: £11,700 (2025/26, year 1)
Entry Requirements
Standard Requirements
- A good honours degree or equivalent qualification in a related discipline
- Relevant work experience, demonstrating your ability to study at postgraduate level
Postgraduate Requirements
- Integrated Pre-Masters Course: A recognised bachelor degree or 3-year diploma with a strong portfolio in a relevant subject
- Masters Course: A good honours degree or equivalent qualification in a related discipline
English Language Requirements
- IELTS test scores (or equivalent from other UCA-approved English tests)
- Master's Degree (MA/MSc/MFA/MBA/MArch/MMus): 6.5 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section
- Pre-Master's (13 Weeks): 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section
- Pre-Master's (30 Weeks): 5.5 overall with no less than 5.5 in any section
Facilities
- Large purpose-built studios and flexible project spaces
- Workshops for plaster and rubber casting, glass casting, slumping, fusing, and enamelling (kiln), ceramic bisque and gloss firing, low melt metal casting, and carving (wood, stone, and polystyrene)
- Machinery to create artwork in wood, metal, and plastics
- Printmaking studio with relief and block painting, plate or stone lithography, and intaglio and screen-printing
Opportunities
- Industry links
- Careers
- Further study
Staff
- Dr. Michael Lent, Programme Director of Fine Art
- Steffi Klenz, Reader in Photography
- Dr. Silke Panse, Reader in Film, Art & Philosophy
- Professor Andrew Kötting, Professor of Time-Based Media
- Professor Jean Wainwright, Professor of Contemporary Art and Photography, Research lead for (FACP)
- Greig Burgoyne, Subject Lead BA Fine Art / Yr3 Pathway Leader
Apply Now
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- My location: UK/International
- Select entry year
- Select study option
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Related Courses
- Art Writing MA/MFA at UCA Canterbury
- Curating MA/MFA at UCA Canterbury
- Fine Art MA/MFA at UCA Farnham
- Photography MA/MFA at UCA Farnham
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Fine Art MA at UCA Canterbury is a one-year, full-time program (two years part-time) designed to help you further develop your research skills and specialize within your chosen field. The program welcomes students from all around the world, creating a vibrant and diverse community. You will explore key areas in visual and material culture as you produce complex and experimental projects.
Objectives:
- Develop your research strategies and skills
- Analyze contemporary contexts in your theoretical and creative practice
- Build connections with esteemed visiting lecturers, artists, and industry specialists
- Engage in a dynamic international community of artists and scholars
- Produce complex and extended projects that showcase your artistic vision
Outline:
The MA Fine Art program consists of three terms, each with a specific focus:
- Term 1:
- Context and Method: This unit delves into key themes and ideas that have influenced contemporary art. You will engage with artistic, literary, and philosophical texts to refine your own ideas and explore available research methods.
- Exploring Practice: This unit is dedicated to exploring your creative practice, helping you refine your artistic interests and develop your MA project proposal.
- Term 2:
- Project Development: This term focuses on developing your MA project proposal, including research, experimentation, and critical analysis. You will receive guidance and feedback from tutors and peers throughout this process.
- Critical Research Paper: You will produce a critical research paper that delves deeper into your chosen area of study.
- Term 3:
- Final Project: This term culminates in the creation of your final project, which can be disseminated, displayed, or published. You will showcase your ambition and professional skills through this project, alongside a critical evaluation paper and a professional practice folio.
Assessment:
The MA Fine Art program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate your progress and understanding:
- Individual and group critiques: These sessions provide valuable feedback on your work and encourage critical thinking.
- One-to-one tutorials: You will receive personalized guidance and support from tutors throughout the program.
- Presentations: You will present your work and proposals to your peers and tutors, allowing for constructive feedback and discussion.
- Written assignments: You will produce written assignments such as your MA project proposal, critical research paper, and professional practice folio.
Teaching:
The MA Fine Art program is taught by a team of experienced and passionate faculty members who are actively involved in the contemporary art world. The program utilizes a diverse range of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures: You will engage in lectures that cover key theoretical and historical concepts in contemporary art.
- Seminars: These interactive sessions provide a platform for discussion and critical analysis of your work and ideas.
- Studio visits: You will receive valuable feedback and insights from visiting artists and professionals.
Careers:
The MA Fine Art program prepares you for a variety of exciting career paths in the art world and beyond, including:
- Arts administration
- Creative media management
- Curatorial practices
- Education
- Filmmaking
- Fine art
- Freelance photography
- Printmaking and reprographics
- Producing
- Public art
- Publishing
- Sound production
- Video editing
Other:
- The program attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant and diverse learning environment.
- You will have the opportunity to visit major international exhibitions in London and engage with renowned institutions such as The Tate, The Royal Academy, Whitechapel Gallery, Zabludowicz Collection, and The Hayward Gallery.
- You will benefit from access to UCA's extensive facilities, including large studios, workshops, printing equipment, and specialized resources.
- The program encourages you to actively engage in the art world outside of the university, showcasing your work and building your professional network.
Tuition fees 2024/25 entry (full-time): £10,500 2024/25 entry (part-time): £5,250 Tuition fees 2024/25 entry: £10,500 (see fee discount information) Tuition fees 2024/25 entry (MA): £18,000 2024/25 entry (Integrated International Pre-Masters course - 30 weeks): £17,500 2024/25 entry (Integrated International Pre-Masters course - 15 weeks): £8,750
University of the Creative Arts
Overview:
University of the Creative Arts (UCA) is a specialist creative university in the UK, known for its high-quality art and design programs. It is ranked among the top specialist creative universities in the UK, particularly for its world-leading research outputs.
Services Offered:
UCA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options are available across its various campuses.Student Support:
Comprehensive student support services are provided, including academic guidance, career advice, and mental health support.Libraries:
Well-equipped libraries are available on each campus, providing access to a vast collection of resources.Students' Union:
The Students' Union offers a platform for student engagement, social activities, and representation.Galleries:
UCA has galleries on its campuses showcasing student and professional artwork.Fees & Finance:
Information on fees and funding options for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs is available.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCA provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment for its students. The university emphasizes diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all. Students can expect:
Active Student Life:
Opportunities for social interaction, clubs, societies, and events.Creative Community:
A strong sense of community among students and staff, passionate about the creative arts.Modern Facilities:
Access to state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and equipment.Campus Locations:
UCA has campuses in Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, and Maidstone, offering diverse learning environments.Key Reasons to Study There:
High Rankings:
UCA consistently ranks among the top specialist creative universities in the UK.World-Leading Research:
The university excels in research, particularly in the field of art and design.Industry Connections:
Strong links with industry professionals and employers, providing valuable career opportunities.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various creative disciplines.Supportive Environment:
A welcoming and inclusive campus culture that encourages student growth and development.Academic Programs:
UCA offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees in various creative fields.Postgraduate Programs:
Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees.Research Degrees:
PhD and MPhil programs in specialized areas of creative research.Other:
International Students:
UCA welcomes international students and provides support services for their transition.Study Abroad:
Opportunities for students to study abroad at partner institutions.Innovation Hub:
UCA has an Innovation Hub that fosters collaboration and entrepreneurship among students and researchers.The provided context does not include information on the following sections:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions diversity and inclusion, it lacks details about specific student life aspects and campus experiences.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context highlights rankings and research, but it does not explicitly state other key reasons for choosing UCA.Entry Requirements:
UK Students:
MA course:
- A good honours degree or equivalent qualification in a related discipline.
- AND/OR
- Relevant work experience demonstrating your ability to study at postgraduate level.
- Consideration will also be given to applicants who make a strong case for admission with a specific project in mind and can demonstrate their potential for success in the course.
Portfolio requirements:
- You will need to submit a digital or in-person portfolio for review.
International and EU Students:
MA course:
- The entry requirements depend on your country's qualifications.
- Any additional entry requirements listed in the UK requirements section (e.g., subject requirements, work experience, or professional qualifications) also apply to international applicants with equivalent qualifications.
- Portfolio requirements: You will need to submit a portfolio for review.
MA course with Integrated International Pre-Masters course:
- A recognized bachelor degree or a 3-year diploma with a strong portfolio in a relevant subject.
- Additional UK requirements like work experience or professional qualifications also apply.
- Portfolio requirements: You will need to submit a portfolio for review.
English language requirements:
- You will need to have a certain level of English language skill to study at UCA.
You may be able to enter the course through the following entry pathways:
- Pre-sessional English courses
- UCA International Foundation courses
- The UCA International College
Language Proficiency Requirements:
The language proficiency requirements for International and EU students depend on their country's qualifications and the specific course they are applying for. You must check the corresponding test scores required on the UCA website for English language proficiency. The context doesn't detail the specific assessment methods used to evaluate submitted portfolios or the minimum grades necessary to be considered for entry.
