MFA/MA/PGDip in Studio Art

Program Overview

The MFA (2 years, 4 semesters) provides an immersive education in professional artistic practice, culminating in a final exhibition and written dissertation. The MA (1 year, 3 semesters) offers masters-level education with a final exhibition and Artist Statement. The PGDip (1 year, 2 semesters) provides postgraduate education with credit recognizing level of attainment.

Program Structure

Studio Research forms the core of all programs, comprising studio-based individual mentoring and rigorous group critiques. Historical & Critical Studies modules engage in intensive critical discourse on contemporary art. Professional Studies modules develop personal, conceptual, technical, and organizational skills for professional practice, delivered through seminars, symposia, and educational visits to Dublin, London, and Berlin.

Curriculum

• PGDip: 60 ECTS across 2 semesters (Studio Research 1–2, Professional Studies 1–2, Historical & Critical Studies 1–2)
• MA: 90 ECTS total, adding Semester 3 Summer Term Studio Research Project: The MA Exhibition (30 ECTS) with final exhibition and Artist's Statement
• MFA: 120 ECTS total, adding Year 2 Semesters 3–4 (Studio Research 3–4, Professional Studies 3–4, Historical & Critical Studies 3–4)

Accreditation & Recognition

Accredited by University of Galway and recognized as a Level 9 Master degree/Level 7 Major by the Irish Register of Qualifications (QQI). Final transcripts and certificates are issued by University of Galway. These courses meet international standards for coursework requirements, content hours, and faculty standards.

Career Preparation

Students learn portfolio and profile preparation for exhibiting as professional artists. Professional Practices modules prepare students for curating and installing exhibitions, promotional and marketing tools, and budgeting for exhibiting work. Graduates pursue college-level teaching, curatorial or administrative roles in galleries or museums, professional artist careers, and practice-based MPhil or PhD programs.

Progression Opportunities

On completion of the MFA or MA, students are eligible to apply to progress to the PhD in Studio Art with supervisor/faculty approval. Completion of the PGDip may allow students to progress to complete the MFA or MA.

Contact

• Lisa Newman, Director of Admissions
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +353 65 7077200