Master of Fine Art at University of Cape Town

Programme overview

The Master of Fine Art is for those undertaking advanced study in any studio discipline or an approved interdisciplinary course of study. Examination is by exhibition (or an approved equivalent) and documentation.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities | Department: Michaelis School of Fine Art | Duration: Minimum 2 years (180 NQF credits, HEQSF level 9); studio space is provided for no longer than two years | Study mode: full-time | Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

Students refine a proposal with supervisors in the first semester and expand it into a professional exhibition demonstrating understanding of historical, theoretical and philosophical approaches to art. The practical submission is accompanied by a 5,000 to 10,000-word explication. The programme includes a weekly reading group, regular seminars, annual progress reviews and a field trip to a major contemporary exhibition. Work is submitted for review in the third term of the first year, and re-registration depends on its success. The degree may be awarded with distinction at 75% or more.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An upper second-class pass in Fine Art IV; an upper second-class pass in an approved 3000-level Humanities course or an overall upper second-class pass in Theory and Practice of Art; and a portfolio of recent work with a clear description of the proposed field of study. In exceptional circumstances, Senate may admit a candidate who has reached an adequate level of academic or professional competence. The deadline is 31 October each year (late applications at the Director's discretion). Acceptance depends on assessment of the proposal and portfolio and availability of a supervisor and studio space.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

The application fee is R100 for undergraduate and postgraduate applications from South Africa and the SADC region, and R300 for applications from outside the SADC region; it is non-refundable and payable by direct deposit, EFT or credit card (online). UCT students and graduates are exempt except for GSB programmes.

Apply through the official page: https://applyonline.uct.ac.za

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