Master of (Fine Art in Studio Art)

This two-year full-time programme is designed to educate artists to a level appropriate to professional practice or progression to doctoral studies. Progression to PhD can be an option. The MFA is operated as an integrated and progressive learning experience. The modules Studio Research, Historical & Critical Studies and Professional Studies deal with the three main aspects of artistic practice but are operated together as elements of the one holistic experience.

The MFA is a joint Burren College of Art/National University of Ireland, Galway programme based at the Burren College of Art. Students register as full students of NUI Galway. The programme operates in association with the Royal College of Art, London and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, which provide visiting faculty to the programme. 

Modules Listed by Semester

Year 1, Semester 1: Introduction to Graduate Art Research
Studio Research 1, Introduction to Art Research Methods. 20 ECTS
Professional Skills 1, Documentation as Artistic Production. 5 ECTS
Historical and Critical Studies 1, Bridging Theory and Practice. 5 ECTS

Year 1, Semester 2: Experimentation and Exploration
Studio Research 2, Refinement & Coherence of Enquiry and Practice. 20 ECTS
Professional Skills 2, Student Selected Project. 5 ECTS
Historical and Critical Studies 2, Formalising Discourse. 5 ECTS

Year 2, Semester 1: The Development of a Body of Work
Studio Research 3, Working Towards an Exhibition. 20 ECTS
Professional Skills 3, Organising and Publicising an Exhibition. 5 ECTS
Historical and Critical Studies 3, The Dissertation. 5 ECTS

Year 2, Semester 2: The Resolution of a Body of Work
Studio Research 4, The MFA Exhibition. 20 ECTS
Professional Skills 4, Exhibition Installation. 5 ECTS
Historical and Critical Studies 4, The Artist's Statement. 5 ECTS