MA by Research

We encourage diversity in thinking and making, acknowledging the potential in material exploration, collaborative working, cross-fertilisation of ideas, and the exploration of new and vital concepts. Critical enquiry and practice-based exploration are central to the programmes, helping you to make dynamic and challenging work that resonates and reflects your key concerns in light of current national and international dialogues.

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 runs for two years (part-time) and 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 the Schools of Art + Media; Design + Communication; and Cultural + Critical Studies.

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.