The MA in Fine Art combines studio work with a theory-based programme of lectures and seminars led by internationally renowned practising artists and history of art scholars respectively. A research-centred programme, students are admitted into painting, sculpture or fine art media (which includes electronic media, photography, print, film and video).
The programme provides an intellectual and creative environment in which talented fine art graduates develop their individual potential as professional artists and pursue independent research. The History and Theory of Art component enables students to develop in depth the relationship between theory and practice in their own work.
The Fine Art MA is an integrated degree programme and does not have a modular structure.
The programme consists of studio work (75%) and History and Theory of Art (25%). There are no core or optional modules for this programme.
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an individual research project in their second year as a component of the History and Theory of Art course, which culminates in a substantial report.
Teaching and learning
A studio-based programme, students develop their work with tutorial/technical assistance according to need. The taught component is delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials and workshops, but primarily demands individual investigation. Year 2 prioritises supervised individual research. Assessment is by exhibition of final studio-work and history and theory coursework including a dissertation.
Careers
The programme aims to develop students' individual potential; also providing an excellent foundation for further doctoral research. The Graduate Degree Shows are attended by gallerists, curators and collectors; providing a high-profile entrance to the professional art world. Recent graduates have established international careers as professional artists, receiving important commissions, gaining gallery representation, winning major prizes and residencies, as well as developing new artist-led initiatives. Others have roles in related careers including curation, museum and gallery management and teaching worldwide.
News and achievements of alumni including recent graduates are detailed on the news section of the Slade School website:
http://www.ucl.ac.uk/slade/news Top career destinations for this degree:
-Artist in Residence, Queenswood School
-Associate Lecturer, University of the Arts
-Artist and Director, Self-Employed Artist and Director
-Visual Artist, Leah Miller-Biot
-Film and TV Production Assistant, Unspecified Production Company and studying EAST, University of London (Institutes and Activities)
Employability
Professional development opportunities are actively encouraged with recent competitions including commissions to design a nine-storey mural and another to produce an artwork for the entrance to the UCL Grant Museum of Zoology.
Partnerships outside of UCL include one with Camden Arts Centre whilst the Slade is a founder member of the Junction: North London Cultural Consortium; all of which offers students the opportunity to experience working with galleries and other professional art bodies. In addition, there are several studio residency awards to help launch completing graduate students including the annual Red Mansion Art Prize of a residency in China.
Why study this degree at UCL?
The UCL Slade School of Fine Art is one of the UK's leading university departments for research in Fine Art, approaching the study and practice of art in an enquiring, investigative, experimental and research-minded way.
All academic staff are practising artists, actively involved in research as well as teaching, and have a diverse range of interests and expertise. Students benefit from excellent studio space and facilities, including a large research centre in Woburn Square.
The Slade's central London location enables easy access to a wide range of unparalleled learning resources including major galleries, museums, libraries, cultural institutions and theatres.
MA applicants are required to hold a first degree in Fine Art at second-class Bachelor's level or above, or its overseas equivalent, and are required to satisfy the school that they have an appropriate level of academic achievement. Exceptionally, an applicant with a first degree in a related subject (such as Art History) will be considered, but evidence of a high level of achievement in the chosen studio discipline will also be required
