| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | 2023-05-26 |
| 2024-01-22 | - |
| 2024-05-27 | - |
| 2024-09-23 | - |
Program Overview
The Fine Art MA (Online) at Falmouth University is a 2-year postgraduate program designed to empower artists to build a sustainable practice while navigating the contemporary global landscape. Delivered entirely online, the program fosters a vibrant international community of artists, researchers, curators, and writers. Students develop their artistic identity, engage critically with contemporary art, foster collaboration and networking, and hone their research and analytical skills. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career paths in the creative industries.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Fine Art MA (Online) at Falmouth University is a 2-year postgraduate program designed to empower artists to build a sustainable practice while navigating the contemporary global landscape. This program, delivered entirely online and with three intakes per year (January, May, and September), fosters a vibrant international community of artists, researchers, curators, and writers. The program's key objectives include:
- Developing an individual artistic identity: Students refine their artistic practice by experimenting with diverse materials, techniques, and approaches. They receive guidance on building a sustainable practice, navigating the art world's complex networks, and exploring the social and environmental impact of their work.
- Engaging critically with contemporary art: Students delve into the global contemporary art context, analyzing its history, critical frameworks, and positions. They engage in critical reflection on their own practice, exploring how their work aligns with and challenges existing paradigms.
- Fostering collaboration and networking: Collaboration forms a crucial aspect of the program. Students work with peers and professionals from across the globe, participating in joint projects, workshops, and masterclasses to develop collaborative skills, build networks, and gain valuable insights into diverse artistic perspectives.
- Developing research and analytical skills: Students hone their research and analytical skills through engaging coursework and independent projects. Additionally, graduates are invited to participate in alumni events, fostering ongoing connections within the Falmouth community.
Outline:
MA Route:
It challenges students to expand their thinking and focus on their artistic practice, exploring themes like "How do artworks create meaning?" and "What is research within art practice?" Guest lectures further enrich the learning experience. Students identify collaborators, execute a joint project relevant to their interests, and learn communication and planning skills to navigate complex, fluid projects. This module fosters valuable skills for collaboration in fabrication, exhibition, and distribution of artworks.
- Sustainable Strategies: This module addresses the environmental and economic impact of artistic practice, exploring sustainable strategies for maintaining a viable practice. Students learn how their "big ideas" can translate into reality, considering their impact on the environment, their well-being, and long-term career development. This module equips them with knowledge and tools to create and sustain a thriving artistic practice.
- Informing Contexts: This module operates like a cultural critic or theorist, providing students with the opportunity to research historical and contemporary contexts relevant to their artistic practice. They gain a comprehensive understanding of their practice situated within broader contexts, exploring the complex debates, networks, and positions surrounding their work.
- Final Major Project: Drawing upon knowledge and experiences gained from previous modules, students develop an ambitious, critical, and professional project for a public audience. This project can be approached through "practice through research" or "research-informed practice," aligning with their interest and reflecting their growing awareness of artistic contexts, collaborative possibilities, and sustainability. Students work continuously on this project over two study blocks to bring their vision to reality.
PGDip route:
- The PGDip route comprises four 30-credit modules (totaling 120 credits), excluding the Major Project.
Assessment:
The Fine Art MA (Online) utilizes a range of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
coursework:
written assignments, visual artwork, critical essays, and project documentation.
presentations:
individual and group presentations showcasing students' work and research.
participation:
active engagement in discussions, workshops, and online forums. The assessment criteria focus on:
conceptual understanding:
demonstrating a critical understanding of contemporary art theory and practice.
creative development:
showcasing artistic growth, innovation, and experimentation.
technical proficiency
demonstrating mastery of materials, techniques, and artistic processes.
critical reflection:
analyzing and articulating the artistic intent, purpose, and impact of the work.
collaborative skills:
demonstrating effective communication, collaboration, and project management abilities.
Teaching:
Teaching methods:
The program employs a blended learning approach, incorporating:
- online lectures and webinars: delivered by practicing artists with diverse backgrounds and global networks.
- guest talks and masterclasses: featuring internationally renowned artists, curators, and industry professionals.
- interactive workshops and discussions: fostering intellectual exchange and critical dialogue among students and faculty.
- independent study and research: encouraging autonomous exploration, experimentation, and critical reflection.
Faculty:
The program boasts a diverse faculty of practicing artists with strong international networks, providing students with valuable guidance and mentorship. They come from various backgrounds and disciplines, offering unique perspectives and expertise.
Unique approaches
- Global perspective: Students engage with a diverse online community of peers and professionals from across the globe, enriching their understanding of contemporary art practices and fostering multicultural collaboration.
- Flexible online learning: The online format offers flexibility for students worldwide, accommodating their individual schedules and circumstances.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue diverse career paths in the creative industries, including, but not limited to:
- Practicing artist: exhibiting artwork in galleries, museums, public spaces, and online platforms
- Curator: developing and managing exhibitions in galleries, museums, alternative spaces, and independent projects
- Art writer and critic: contributing critical analysis, reviews, and essays to publications, online platforms, and exhibitions
- Arts educator: teaching and inspiring future generations in educational institutions or community settings
- Social entrepreneur and campaigner: using art as a tool for social change, activism, and community engagement
Other:
- Students have access to a dedicated online platform with extensive learning resources, including ebooks, journals, video tutorials, and other materials.
£12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course £7,921 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - PGDip course £12,150 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - 2 years part time - MA/MSc course £7,921 total fee (incl. acceptance fee) - PGDip course Tuition fees for September 2025 will be confirmed in summer 2024. Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible. The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs
