Master of Fine Arts by Research
A practice-based research degree exploring contemporary art and creative practice at UNSW Sydney.
Best for:Best for artists, designers, and creative practitioners with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or related fields, seeking to deepen their practice through research.
Overview
The Master of Fine Arts by Research at UNSW Sydney is a two-year programme designed for artists and creative practitioners seeking to advance their work through rigorous research. This degree allows candidates to develop original, practice-led projects under expert supervision, blending theoretical inquiry with artistic experimentation. It is ideal for those who wish to contribute new knowledge to their field while refining their artistic voice. The programme fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and provides access to state-of-the-art facilities. Applicants should demonstrate a strong portfolio and a clear research focus aligned with contemporary art practices.
What you'll do
- Conduct original, practice-based research in a chosen area of contemporary art or creative practice.
- Develop and refine artistic projects under the guidance of experienced supervisors.
- Engage in theoretical and critical inquiry to support and contextualize your creative work.
- Present research findings through exhibitions, performances, or public displays as part of the programme.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty to contribute to interdisciplinary discussions and workshops.
- Utilize UNSW Sydney’s facilities and resources to support your artistic and research development.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or a related creative discipline, or equivalent qualification.
Degree offered: Master of Fine Arts by Research
Language: English proficiency; IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or equivalent.
Instruction: English
- Proven artistic practice and portfolio demonstrating originality and potential for research.
- Ability to articulate a clear research proposal aligned with contemporary art practices.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for academic and creative discourse.
- Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and critical reflection.
- No specific nationality restrictions; open to domestic and international applicants.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior research experience required, but a strong artistic portfolio is essential.
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
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
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- 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: 2025-11-30 (for 2026 intake, subject to change) (Australia/Sydney)
Applicants must submit an online application through the UNSW Research Handbook portal. The application requires a research proposal, academic transcripts, a portfolio of artistic work, and two references. A personal statement outlining your research interests and artistic goals is also required.
- CV or resume
- Research proposal (detailed outline of your artistic research project)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree and any higher qualifications)
- Portfolio of artistic work (digital or physical samples)
- Two academic or professional references
- Personal statement (articulating research interests and artistic goals)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
UNSW Research Office· Research Admissions
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