Course details

Summary

Studies in Photography begin with a comprehensive introduction to photographic principles, an exploration of photography as a device for communicating information, ideas and personal insights, and an introduction to the basic materials and processes of photographic practice.

Further studies involve an examination of the procedures which are distinctive to photography and how these procedures can be used for documentary and artistic expression.

Advanced studies are individually constructed; they focus on projects concerned with expressive aspects of the medium, and are encouraged to see their work and to examine it critically within its historical and sociological context.

The Master of Fine Arts provides a development opportunity for students who have an interest in establishing themselves as professional artists or scholars, or career designers, film makers or photographers. This master's encourages participants to explore the latest trends, develop their own ideas, and build their confidence in the public realm. The School of Fine Arts provides opportunities to gain valuable exhibition experience through an ongoing professional relationship with the Christchurch Art Gallery. There is also an artist-in-residence programme and the School enjoys a busy schedule of visiting international artists who share their expertise with postgraduate students.

This degree involves a submission of work in one of the areas of practice, or a combination of courses and submission of work.

MFA students document all their work and are expected to exhibit their work publicly at the conclusion of their degree.

Career opportunities

Photography students gain careers as professional artists, art gallery directors, photo-journalists, commercial photographers, consultants, art critics, art historians, lecturers and art teachers.

Entry criteria

Candidates must normally have completed:

• a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours or equivalent with good grades in relevant subjects or
• significant professional practice or teaching experience.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 575 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum B+ grade; CAE or CPE score of 176 with a minimum of 169 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 64 and no PTE communicative skills score below 58.