Research course

MA BY RESEARCH

Institution
Arts University Plymouth
Qualifications
MA(Res)

Entry requirements

MA applicants are normally expected to have an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above. However, the strength of your creative practice and other forms of experience will be taken into account at the interview stage and we encourage you to start a conversation with us.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Our MA by Research programme presents an exciting opportunity for you to study at Masters level in the dynamic and transdisciplinary arts environment of the university, whilst following an area of your own creative interest under the supervision of specialist academic staff.

MA by Research enables students to explore aspects of knowledge at the forefront of an academic or professional discipline, with research areas negotiated with you on application.

Your final submission will be by written thesis and is differentiated from our other practice-led MA courses, with a focus on demonstrating originality in the application of knowledge to gain an understanding of how this is advanced through research and to deal with complex issues systematically and creatively.

You will be autonomous and specialist in your approach to your studies, with an emphasis on collaboration and invention through the sharing of expertise and ideas that echo present and emerging research areas.

The MA by Research course fosters meaningful research and/or knowledge transfer partnerships, industry-based projects and collaborations to increase the impact and reach of students’ research profile.

Existing and emerging research partnerships include: Tate Exchange Research Centre (through the university’s status as a founding Associate member), Making Futures, Making Learning, Freelands Foundation, Counterpoints Arts, Anglia Ruskin University, Land2 research network, Black Mirror research network and The Box.

Here you will be equipped to take up positions in a wide range of sectors requiring research and presentation skills, team working, the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; and decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations and will acquire the independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.

Core specialisms include: all academic areas currently offered through research groups Making Futures; Making Learning and Memory, Site & Artefact.

You will have the opportunity to critically engage with current debates within the subject area, relevant institutional contexts and partners and be encouraged to consider what it means to be an artist in the 21st century.

We’ll support you in articulating your ideas, developing your working methods and creating independent work, through individual tutorials, lectures, subject-specific seminars, studio and gallery visits and group critiques with access to our rich workshop areas and technical resources across the university.

Information for international students

Our International Fees* are very competitive and are less costly than many of our competitors – yet our facilities are world-leading.

*Excluding costs for international students who need a pre-sessional English course and ongoing in-year English language support.

Visa information

Fees and funding

UK students
£8,900
International students
£16,500

Read more on Arts University Plymouth funding here

Masters degree and MA by Research (UK students)

Full-time - £8,900

Part-time - £4,985

Masters degree and MA by Research (EU & International students)

Full-time - £16,500

Part-time - £8,800

Alumni Progression Award: 15% discount on MA or MFA fees for Undergraduate, Pre-Degree and FAD graduates who go on to postgraduate study with us.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MA(Res)
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Admissions
Email
admissions@aup.ac.uk
Phone
+441752203433