MA/MFA in Art & Social Action
Explore transdisciplinary arts practice for social transformation through collaborative, creative approaches.
Best for:Best for artists, activists, educators, and practitioners with a portfolio and passion for using creative methods to address social challenges.
Overview
The MA/MFA in Art & Social Action at the National College of Art & Design (NCAD) is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time programme. It focuses on collaborative, creative methods to drive social change, emphasizing how artistic practice can reimagine societal structures. Students engage in transdisciplinary work, blending art, community engagement, and critical thinking to address real-world issues. The programme is ideal for artists, activists, educators, and practitioners seeking to leverage their skills for transformative social impact. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to innovative, participatory approaches and a portfolio reflecting their creative and collaborative potential.
What you'll do
- Develop and execute collaborative art projects that address social issues and community needs.
- Engage with diverse stakeholders to co-create solutions through creative and participatory methods.
- Explore innovative approaches to social change using artistic practice as a tool for transformation.
- Document and reflect on the processes and outcomes of your projects through written, visual, or multimedia formats.
- Participate in interdisciplinary workshops and seminars focused on art, activism, and social theory.
- Present your work in progress and final projects to peers, faculty, and the broader community.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2nd class honours, 2.2) in art, design, humanities, social sciences, or a related field. Applicants without a qualifying degree may be considered based on prior work or learning experience (RPEL).
Degree offered: MA or MFA
Language: English proficiency for all programmes; international applicants must provide proof of proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
Instruction: English
- Ability to create and document a portfolio showcasing previous artistic or creative work.
- Experience with collaborative or participatory creative processes.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for articulating artistic intentions and processes.
- Familiarity with social or community engagement practices, even if not formal training.
- Commitment to exploring art as a tool for social transformation.
- No nationality restrictions; open to international applicants.
- Applicants currently completing their undergraduate degree may apply with a conditional offer.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior experience caps, though relevant work or learning experience is considered.
Funding & terms
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
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Applicants must submit a Statement of Interest (500 words or a 2-minute video/audio file) outlining their reasons for applying. A recent CV, certified transcripts, academic or employer references, and a portfolio or evidence of previous work are also required. The portfolio can include links to online work, case studies, or other relevant documentation. Applications are submitted through the NCAD postgraduate application portal.
- Statement of Interest (500 words or 2-minute video/audio)
- Recent CV
- Certified transcripts of previous programmes
- Certified copies of degree certificates
- Academic or employer reference (preferably Head of School/Department)
- Portfolio or evidence of previous work (including online links if applicable)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.