Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art or Photography
Introduction
- Are you passionate about fine arts or perhaps an artist yourself?
- Are you a potential Warhol or a gifted Van Gogh?
- Perhaps you have a research interest in the fine arts that you would like to see to fruition?
To be an artist is to be burdened and blessed with the “freedom of no choice!”
The need to express oneself through art is as essential to the visual artist as food and water. Art is continually being redefined, which makes it very exciting! Warnborough College recognises that much of the work defined as “art” is comprised of crafts and minor arts. Hence, the WC studio art program welcomes artisans as well as fine artists to its graduate programs. At Warnborough, “fine arts” includes photography – so get snapping!
Key Info
Duration:
8 terms (32 months) minimum*
Credits:
140 ECTS credits
Fees:
€100* per ECTS credit
Start:
Monthly
Prerequisites:
A recognised undergraduate degree in a similar/related discipline.
The MFA in Studio Art or Photography qualifies the graduate to work as a professional artist in numerous arenas, depending upon the graduate’s area(s) of expertise. Professional opportunities might include: Fine arts, Graphic arts, Illustration, Fashion, interior design, Advertising and Teaching (which may require additional credentials).
Master of Fine Arts recipients are also qualified to work in a variety of employment capacities in Arts Administration, Program Development, Travel and Tourism.
MFA students may also work in museums, galleries and a host of arts organizations. The MFA program familiarises students on the business of being an artist.
MFA students will be required to complete a minimum of 140 ECTS credits, which include an independent MFA Project(s) and/or Exhibition. Compulsory and elective modules must be equivalent at the 700 level or above.
The program is open to individuals who hold a BFA degree. Those holding a BA degree in another discipline may also apply, however they will most likely need to take some additional introductory level modules to prepare themselves for the program. All applicants must submit a portfolio.
14 modules (112 credits)
MFA Exhibit and/or Project* (28 credits)
* This will be developed by the student with oversight and guidance by the Mentor.
The following modules are compulsory: (6 modules, 8 credits each, total of 48 credits)
- ART 701 Studio Methods, Practices and Procedures for Professional Artists
- ART 702 Critical Terminology for Professional Artists
- ART 703 The Business of Being an Artist
- ART 704 Topics in Critical Analysis for Fine Arts Majors
- ART 705 Building a Professional Portfolio
- ART 706 Western Cultural Art History for MFA Students OR ART 707 Non-Western Cultural Art History for MFA Students OR ART 708 History of Photography for MFA Students
The following modules are elective: (8 modules, 8 credits each, total of 64 credits)
- A Choice of 7 modules in or directly related to the major area of fine arts emphasis;
- A Choice of 1 module outside of the major area of fine arts emphasis.
Because of the enormous flexibility of the WCI program, learners may work with their mentors to structure their program in the context of their individual interests, talents, and professional goals. Read the complete course descriptions for information as well as ideas. Think of them as a set of guidelines, rather than a set of rules. The descriptions will give you a sense of areas in which to proceed at the graduate level and professionally.
This program is entirely online - you do not have to travel anywhere. MFA candidates will be expected to complete a substantial and significant body of work independently. All students work independently under the guidance of a mentor or tutor. We expect students to be motivated and have plenty of initiative, as ‘spoonfeeding’ is not encouraged.
On-site and virtual courses will be taught in atelier style. All graduates will be required to submit a professional portfolio, as per standards established by the art department and Warnborough College, and to complete program projects.
In addition, students will be required to participate in a graduate exhibit. The Kent Arts Conference is sponsored by Warnborough College Ireland each year, and students are actively encouraged to participate in this. It is a great opportunity to present research or workshops, and to meet other like-minded contacts.
Dr. Jill Kiefer is a teaching artist and arts historian. She has an extensive background in film and video production and distribution, having worked in that industry for many years. Jill has developed and implemented comprehensive academic and lifelong learning programs at prestigious institutions in the USA and abroad. She was a member of the graduate faculty of the Humanities Dept. of Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles, and also taught for Pasadena City College, Glendale College, Westwood College, the Palos Verdes Art Center and the University of New Mexico. She has received a number of “Best Faculty” awards. Jill was a Federal Title V Grant Recipient four times for her work in Hybrid Learning, and she is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi—the oldest and most selective academic honor society in the USA, dedicated to the recognition and promotion of academic excellence in all fields of higher education. Jill is the Director of Warnborough’s Master’s and Doctoral programs in Fine Arts, Cultural Art History, Humanities, and Film, Radio, TV and Media Studies. A published writer and artist, Jill has an impressive and extensive resume. You may also contact Jill about the Warnborough programs she leads at jkiefer@warnborough.edu
Related and Other Programs of Interest
I really would like to go back and do my doctorate. I would love to do it with Dr Jill Kiefer too. She was just wonderful.
Risa Dera
Stained Glass Artist
* Fees:
Fees refer to tuition only. It does not include ancillary expenses such as required materials (see above), textbooks, internet connections, postage, telephone calls, insurance and printing. More…
^ Duration:
Depending upon exemptions, performance and the workload, it may take more or less time. Accreditation for Prior Learning or Experience (APEL) can reduce time and fees.
