MPhil (Fine Art)

Overview

The MPhil (Fine Art) is a practice-based postgraduate research programme aiming to generate a contribution to knowledge and understanding in Fine Art. Students undertake enquiry through practice-based research combined with other research methods, producing a significant body of work supported by a written thesis of approximately 20,000 words. Work is presented in a final exhibition at Burren College of Art. The programme provides an opportunity for extended research through fine art practice and may allow progression to the PhD (Studio Art) or serve as an exit route from PhD programmes.

Modes of Study

• Full Time: Normally completed over two years on a fulltime basis (@90 ECTS per year)
• Part Time: Normally completed over three years on a part-time basis (@60 ECTS per year)

Programmes of Enquiry

• New Materialism/Ecological practice
• Burren specific/place based topics of artistic enquiry
• Drawing and painting as processes of enquiry
• Public, site-specific, social and relational aspects of art
• Performance/live art and new media
• Art & Politics/political modes of engagement in art
• Interdisciplinary art research that promotes collaboration across academic boundaries

Supervision

Supervision is undertaken by a team with a primary supervisor and one or more co-supervisors. BCA faculty available for supervision include Conor McGrady (Dean of Academic Affairs), Dr Áine Phillips (Head of Sculpture), Dr Eileen Hutton (Lecturer in Art & Ecology), and Dr Ruby Wallis (Lecturer in Photography). Other BCA faculty and faculty from University of Galway or other universities may be available by arrangement.

Final Examination

• Submission of a body of work that embodies a contribution to knowledge and understanding, normally by exhibition
• Written reflective analysis of the theoretical and historical context of the research subject (maximum 10,000 words; minimum 5,000 words)
• Written critical review of the research process (maximum 10,000 words; minimum 6,000 words)
• 500 word summary of the contribution to knowledge and understanding together with work documentation
• All elements must be passed to receive the MPhil in Fine Art award

Assessment & Examination Process

Assessment is conducted at the end of each semester by an Internal Examination Board (Dean and teaching faculty). At the end of each academic year and final examination, an External Examiner (independent academic appointed by University of Galway) joins to assure critical distance and objectivity. An Examination Board meeting comprising the Dean, External Examiner, and a representative from the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies at University of Galway formally approves final marks. Note: In the event of failure to progress or voluntary withdrawal, tuition is non-refundable.

Accreditation & Qualifications

The MPhil is accredited by University of Galway and recognized as a Level 9 Masters degree, Major level 7, by the Irish Register of Qualifications (QQI). Final transcripts and certificates of completion (diploma) are issued by University of Galway. On completion, students are eligible to apply to progress to the PhD in Studio Art with supervisor/faculty approval.

Career Paths

• College-level teaching positions
• Curatorial or administrative roles in galleries or museums
• Career as a professional artist
• Progression to practice-based PhD in Studio Art
• Graduates have acquired positions as lecturers and researchers in third-level institutions, founded arts organizations and DIY gallery exhibitions, and work as professional artists exhibiting internationally