Program Overview

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About our foundation years

Our Foundation Year courses are perfect for you if you...

• are returning to education after a long time, or you don't have the qualifications for direct entry into our degree programmes
• are thinking of re-training and would like an introduction to the area
• are an international student wanting an additional year to adapt to the UK academic system
• are still evaluating which degree pathway at UEL is the right one for you

Please note: Foundation years can only be studied full-time. However, you can transfer to part-time delivery once you have completed your foundation year. Please apply to the full-time option if you wish to study in this way.

Fine Art MA

Overview

Our course encourages you to develop your ambitious and innovative work within the supportive atmosphere of studio-based practice and under the close supervision of some of Britain's leading artists.

We've been providing opportunities for ground-breaking talent since the Chapman brothers started making their dramatic impression back in the 1980s. Now, the course leader believes it just keeps getting better.

The core elements of the course are designed to be challenging and enjoyable and to offer a rich, vibrant and varied experience in the fine arts.

There is a strong professional practice element so you will be encouraged to get involved in 'real world' projects – usually exhibitions, commissions, or residencies.

The course culminates in the degree show, which is a significant showcase for your work, attracting large numbers of visitors from the art world as well as the general public.

Course options

• MA: Start date September 2025

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: Bachelor's degree with minimum Second Class (2:2) or equivalent in Fine Art or related Creative Arts subject.
• International Qualifications: We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications in addition to A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTEC qualifications.
• English Language requirements: Overall IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in Writing, Speaking, Reading and Listening (or recognised equivalent).
• Portfolio requirements: A portfolio is required and should be relevant to this course. It should include a wide range of work that shows your creativity, technical competence and understanding of the subject area.

Fees, funding and additional costs

• Fees: EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals starting a course from September 2021, will no longer be eligible for Home fees. However, such nationals benefitting from Settled Status or Citizens' Rights may become eligible for Home fees as and when the UK Government confirms any new fee regulations.
• Funding: Postgraduate Loans Scheme, Postgraduate Scholarship, Alumni Discount, Early Payment Discount, Asylum Seekers scholarship, Civic Engagement, Hardship Bursary, Sport Scholarships.
• Additional costs: Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Course modules

• Developing Independent Practice Core Module: You will develop your personal studio practice with the support of tutorials and seminars.
• Research and Practice Methods Core Module: The critical concepts module underpins and provides context for your personal creative studio practice.
• Interim exhibition Core Module: You will continue to develop advanced independent work, realised in an interim exhibition.
• Professional Life (Mental Wealth) Core Module: TBC
• Realisation of Practice and MA Exhibition Core Module: You will develop a body of independent, personal work for the MA exhibition.

What we're researching

At the University of East London we are working on the some of the big issues that will define our future; from sustainable architecture and ethical AI, to health inequality and breaking down barriers in the creative industries.

Your future career

We're proud that our students go on to make their names as designers, design coordinators, pattern cutters, fashion technologists, product developers and retail managers.

How we support your career ambitions

We offer dedicated careers support, and further opportunities to thrive, such as volunteering and industry networking. Our courses are created in collaboration with employers and industry to ensure they accurately reflect the real-life practices of your future career and provide you with the essential skills needed.

How you'll learn

All of the programmes in the MFA suite will follow learning and teaching methods geared towards Master’s level achievement, and in particular, the 60 credit MFA modules will have the following key outcomes regarding creative practice and professional engagement.

How you'll be assessed

Assessment is by portfolio and coursework, with formative work demonstrated in portfolio submission and critical reflection. Regular feedback is given in workshops for all practice-based programmes in the School.

Campus and facilities

Our waterfront campus in the historic Royal Docks provides a modern, well-equipped learning environment.

Who teaches this course

This course is delivered by the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering.

What our staff and students say

Preparing for my first exhibition was an amazing experience. The camaraderie with my fellow students and the ability to use such good exhibition spaces which was great."

Sali Walker

Fine Art MA

Related courses

• MA/MFA Filmmaking
• Prof Doc Fine Art
• MPhil PhD School of Arts and Creative Industries