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Arts, Music, Performance, and Film● OpenMastersPreview

MFA in Photography

Explore innovative photographic practices on Ulster University’s world-leading MFA programme in Belfast.

Best for:Best for artists and photographers with a strong portfolio and a passion for pushing the boundaries of photographic expression.

Ulster University · Belfast, Ireland
More professors at Ulster University
contemporary photographic practicespractice-based art researchdigital and analogue photographyartistic experimentationphotographic theory and criticism
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Your Application You can apply directly to Ulster at any time of year. We advise that you submit your application no later than two weeks prior to your course start date. This is to ensure there is sufficient time for your application to be reviewed and, should you be made an offer, time for you to complete all the necessary pre-enrolment tasks. Some programmes will have specific deadlines as additional selection (e.g. interview, portfolio submission etc) is required, so please check the course page to ensure you have sufficient time to complete your application.
Funding
—
Full-time, 4 semesters (typically 2 years)
Start date
flexible (advised to apply 2 weeks prior to course start)
Full-time
Location
Belfast
Ireland

Overview

The MFA in Photography at Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art invites artists to rethink photographic practices through a rigorous, practice-based curriculum. This programme blends theoretical exploration with hands-on experimentation, encouraging applicants to develop a distinctive artistic voice. Students engage with contemporary debates in photography while producing a substantial body of original work. The programme is ideal for artists seeking to refine their craft and contribute to the evolving field of photographic art. A portfolio submission is a mandatory part of the application process, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on creative output and critical inquiry.

MFA Photographypractice-based researchartistic portfolio reviewphotographic theorycontemporary art practicescreative arts degreeportfolio submissionvisual arts programme

What you'll do

  • Develop and refine a substantial body of original photographic work under expert supervision.
  • Engage with contemporary photographic theory and critical discourse through seminars and workshops.
  • Participate in group critiques and individual feedback sessions to refine artistic practice.
  • Contribute to the broader artistic community through exhibitions, public talks, or collaborative projects.
  • Complete a final project or thesis that demonstrates mastery of photographic techniques and conceptual depth.

Requirements

Degree required: A second-class honours degree (or higher) from a UK/Ireland university or equivalent international qualification, OR an equivalent standard in a Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, Postgraduate Certificate, or Postgraduate Diploma.

Degree offered: MFA in Photography

Language: English; Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5 (or equivalent).

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Proven artistic ability demonstrated through a portfolio of practical photographic work.
  • Strong conceptual and technical skills in photography or related visual arts.
  • Ability to engage critically with photographic theory and contemporary art practices.
Nice to have
Experience with digital or analogue photographic techniques.Familiarity with contemporary art movements and photographic history.Collaborative and interdisciplinary artistic practice.
Eligibility
  • Applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements or provide evidence of substantial experiential learning.
  • Portfolio submission is mandatory for all applicants.
  • No specific nationality or residency restrictions, but English proficiency is required for international applicants.

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
Full-time, 4 semesters (typically 2 years)
Programme
—

Programme and admissions

Admissions not verified

A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.

Intake
Not confirmed by the source
Duration
Not confirmed by the source
Teaching language
Not confirmed by the source
Taught / research mode
Not confirmed by the source
Study mode
Not confirmed by the source
Campus
Not confirmed by the source
Prerequisites
Not confirmed by the source
Application instructions
Not confirmed by the source
Tuition
Not confirmed by the source
Funding
Not confirmed by the source

How to apply

Deadline: flexible (advised to apply 2 weeks prior to course start)

Applicants must submit their application directly to Ulster University through the official portal. A portfolio of practical photographic work must be provided either at interview or as part of the application. Ensure all necessary pre-enrolment tasks are completed after receiving an offer.

Documents required
  • CV or curriculum vitae
  • Portfolio of practical photographic work
  • Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s or equivalent)
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Statement of purpose or artistic intent
↗Check programme and admissions
Lab
Belfast School of Art
Ulster University
Ireland
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.