Programme details

Master of Fine Arts

The MFA program at UC presents an excellent opportunity for individuals who wish to pursue careers as professional artists, scholars, career designers, filmmakers, or photographers.

Course description

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program provides a valuable opportunity for students interested in pursuing careers as professional artists, scholars, designers, filmmakers, or photographers. This Master’s degree encourages participants to delve into contemporary trends, develop their individual ideas, and bolster their confidence in public environments. The University of Canterbury offers the MFA in disciplines such as Moving Image, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography, and Sculpture. The Fine Arts program allows students to gain essential exhibition experience through a sustained professional relationship with Te Puna o Waiwhetū | Christchurch Art Gallery. Additionally, there is an artist-in-residence program

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

Engaging in Postgraduate Fine Arts studies at UC allows students to explore numerous dimensions of the art world beyond the confines of the university. This experience enhances an artist’s self-assurance and prepares them for the thrilling and expansive career paths that await professional artists.

Entry requirements

It is necessary to have obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours, or a comparable degree with strong academic performance in relevant disciplines; or, you may qualify through considerable professional practice or teaching experience.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements. University recognises the following English Language tests and courses:

International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) – including online and One Skill Retake
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) – including Home Edition and Paper Edition #
CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2) – including online
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE) – including online
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)
FluentIQ (*FluentIQ should be used where IELTS Indicator or TOEFL cannot be used)
LanguageCert
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)
Duolingo English Test (DET)