Designed around four, week-long seminars per year, the programme is delivered by faculty and guests that are nationally and internationally respected artists, critics, writers, and curators.
According to their interests and proposed direction of study, students are assigned two supervisors to support their studio practice as it develops from Semester to Semester in order to best support their direction and research throughout the programme.
The MFA programme prepares artists for a professional career working within a diverse field of contemporary art practices across local and international contexts.
The Master of Fine Arts is a full-time, two-year (year one at level 8, year two at level 9), distance programme with some in person seminars enabling enrolled artists to live and work anywhere in New Zealand. Designed around four, week-long seminars per year, the programme is delivered by faculty and guests that are nationally and internationally respected artists, critics, writers, and curators. According to their interests and proposed direction of study, students are assigned two supervisors to support their studio practice as it develops from Semester to Semester in order to best support their direction and research throughout the programme.
The MFA programme prepares artists for a professional career working within a diverse field of contemporary art practices across local and international contexts. The interdisciplinary structure and philosophy support artists in understanding how art and artworks operate in the world, and through regular critique, supervisory guidance, seminar participation, and a focus on exhibition and publication practice, assists them to develop their individual approach to practice and research.
February 2026 Intake
10/02/2026
2 Years
Low Residency
Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Fees indicated are for 1st year of study. 2nd Year fees may vary.
All 2026 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.
Domestic $11,134+ $300 Student Services Levy
International $27,000 + $300 Student Services Levy
Further study options:
Level 10 Doctoral degree
Master of Fine Arts
NZQA Level 9 (240 credits)
NZ Government key information link for students.
The MFA programme prepares artists for a professional career working within a diverse field of contemporary art practices across local and international contexts.
The interdisciplinary structure and philosophy support artists in understanding how art and artworks operate in the world, and through regular critique, supervisory guidance, seminar participation, and a focus on exhibition and publication practice assists them to develop their individual approach to practice and research.
Certificate in Fine Arts
Kaye Rosales’ photography, featured in Whitecliffe’s End-of-Year Fine Arts Exhibition, captures moments of artistic exploration and visual storytelling. Her work refl ...
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours)
Anna Bensky’s work was featured in Whitecliffe’s End-of-Year Fine Arts Exhibition, showcasing her exploration of ideas, materials, and artistic techniques. Her creati ...
Certificate in Fine Arts
Tina Ritter’s work was featured in Whitecliffe’s End-of-Year Fine Arts Exhibition, showcasing her creative exploration and artistic development. Her pieces reflect th ...
Jono Kraettli - Owner/Photographer, Focal Photographic
Applicants must
International applicants must
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a postgraduate degree designed for practicing artists who want to advance their creative and critical practice through independent research. It combines studio-based exploration, theoretical study, and professional development to help artists refine their voice and position their work within contemporary art contexts.
The MFA is ideal for artists, designers, and creative practitioners who already have a degree in fine arts or a related field and want to deepen their conceptual, technical, and research abilities. It suits both recent graduates and established artists seeking to expand their professional practice.
The MFA is typically completed over two years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent). The programme includes structured coursework, independent studio research, and a final public presentation of your creative and written research outcomes.
You’ll learn how to develop, analyse, and present a cohesive body of creative work supported by critical writing and research. The programme focuses on advanced studio practice, contemporary art theory, and professional engagement — preparing you for both exhibition and publication opportunities.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) or an equivalent qualification in fine arts or a related discipline. Admission is based on a portfolio submission, research proposal, and interview, demonstrating your ability to undertake independent, research-led creative study.
The MFA includes a balance of studio practice, critical seminars, and research writing. Students work closely with supervisors to produce a major creative project and an accompanying written dissertation. The programme encourages self-directed research supported by regular critiques, tutorials, and seminars with visiting artists and academics.
MFA students have access to dedicated studio spaces and the full range of Whitecliffe’s facilities, including printmaking, photography, video, and digital labs, as well as the library, project spaces, and workshop studios. You can also borrow digital equipment like cameras and lighting gear for research and exhibition projects.
Yes. Exhibition practice is a key part of the MFA. Students regularly present their work in critiques, interim reviews, and public exhibitions, culminating in a final MFA exhibition that showcases your creative research at a professional standard.
Graduates of the MFA often go on to become exhibiting artists, curators, educators, writers, and researchers. Many also develop careers in creative direction, arts management, and academic teaching. The MFA provides the foundation for doctoral-level study or professional practice within the global art community.
Whitecliffe maintains strong connections with Auckland’s art scene and international creative networks through guest lectures, visiting artist programmes, collaborative projects, and gallery partnerships. These connections help students gain professional exposure and build valuable relationships within the arts community.
The vast majority of our team have extensive experience within their respective industries. This is key in helping us ensure our graduates have the real-world skills they need for a successful career and bright future.
Anton Maurer is an artist and educator, with a practice grounded in lens-based media.
...
David Cowlard is a senior lecturer with specialist teaching experience in lens-based practices, d ...
Glen Snow gained his Masters at Elam School of Fine Arts, University of Auckland (UOA) in 2012. H ...
Matt Dowman received his BFA from Whitecliffe in 2002, and a MFA with honours from Auckland Unive ...
Matt Ellwood is an artist and educator with more than 25 years of professional experience in the ...
Richard Maloy completed his MFA from the University of Auckland in 2001. He employs a multi-disci ...
Rose Meyer gained a Master of Fine Art with First Class Honours in 2015 and a Post Graduate Diplo ...
Caryline Boreham is an artist and educator whose recent work blends a photography practice with a ...
