Master of Fine Arts

The Master of Fine Arts programme is built around a comprehensive programme of supervised studio research and contextual studies requiring self-directed learning and continuing professional development. The principal aims are for students to extend their established creative capacity, develop critical skills, and foster a mature understanding of the relationships between their work and contemporary culture. The intensive format of the seminars is structured around themed discussions, guest artist presentations, exhibition visits, and studio critique.

The MFA consists of four inter-related elements:

Intensive 5-6 day Seminars
Held four times annually on the Auckland Campus, enable students to:

• An oral presentation in their final semester outlining research direction and emphasis
• A blog site showcasing analysis of influential modes of practice and critical debate
• A printed catalogue containing critical essays and photographic evidence of key projects

Final Exhibition
The final Master of Fine Arts exhibition, attended by artists, art dealers, critics, curators, and other arts professionals, its the most significant event in the programme - the point at which an international or national artist or critic helps the internal panel assess each student's research on its sophistication, critical awareness, and professionalism. It is the springboard for our new graduates to move from the educational sphere to life as professional artists.

Many of our graduates have gone on to become successful exhibiting artists, both in New Zealand and abroad. However, a Fine Arts degree also prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, giving them essential skills for the modern job market: the ability to think creatively and flexibly; to work independently or collaboratively; to respond constructively to criticism, and to participate in intelligent debate. Our emphasis on business skills - such as budgeting, marketing, career management, and public relations - also prepares graduates for self-employment or to engage in a range of creative industries.

NZ Government key information link for students, that provides more information to support your decision making for this programme

Domestic Student Entry Requirements:

• Completed application form
• Official transcripts of a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) and/or other academic qualifications
• Portfolio: A typical portfolio comprises 10-15 digital images of key works or projects and one or two examples of contextual research in written form (digital format only required for application)
• A current curriculum vitae
• Three referee contact details
• A statement of intent outlining the direction/emphasis of the work you wish to develop as part of the MFA programme

International Student Entry Requirements:

• Completed application form
• Passport copy
• Minimum Age: Students must turn 18 within their first year of study at Whitecliffe
• IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0 or equivalent
• Official transcripts of a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) and/or other academic qualifications
• Portfolio: A typical portfolio comprises 10-15 digital images of key works or projects and one or two examples of contextual research in written form (digital format only require for application)
• A current curriculum vitae
• Three referee contact details
• A statement of intent outlining the direction/emphasis of the work you wish to develop as part of the MFA programme