MFA
Applied Art
A two-year, research-based and studio-intensive programme advancing visual communication, conceptual clarity and professional design capabilities.
Advanced creative practice.
Research, studio, profession.
A two-year, research-based and studio-intensive postgraduate programme designed to advance creative practice, conceptual clarity and professional identity.
The programme integrates advanced studio practice, research, experimentation, theory and professional exposure. Students develop an individual creative language while building the ability to communicate ideas through sustained practice.
The curriculum progresses from advanced exploration and research foundations to independent projects, professional presentation and a major final-stage project.
A deeper creative
practice.
The programme combines advanced studio practice, research, experimentation, theory and professional development.
Research-Integrated Practice
Studio work is supported by research, critique and contextual inquiry.
Advanced Creative Practice
Develop conceptual clarity, visual language and technical confidence through sustained studio work.
Digital and Emerging Media
Engage with digital tools, interactive practices and contemporary creative technologies.
Theory and Critical Thinking
Build stronger practice through visual culture, art history and critical inquiry.
Professional Exposure
Connect studio learning with live projects, internships, collaborations and professional practice.
Independent Major Project
Bring research, experimentation and professional presentation together in a final project.
Ready to take
your practice further?
Here's what you need to know before applying for the MFA programme.
Eligibility
- BFA / BA / BDes / equivalent degree in the relevant creative discipline, subject to university regulations.
- A strong portfolio demonstrating creative practice, conceptual clarity and technical skills.
- Minimum qualifying score as prescribed by the university.
Selection and Portfolio
- Portfolio review to assess creative practice, conceptual development and technical ability.
- Personal interview / interaction as required by the admission process.
- Applicants should present work demonstrating a clear interest in advanced postgraduate creative practice.
Four semesters.
One evolving practice.
The curriculum progresses through studio practice, research, experimentation, professional development and an independent final-stage project.
Semester 1
- Creative Drawing
- Introduction to Cultural and Social Anthropology
- Illustration for Visual Communication
- STUDIO 1: VISUAL STRATEGY and CAMPAIGN PROJECT
- Photography and Creative Expression
Semester 2
- Visual Semiotics and Image Interpretation
- Narrative Photography
- Studio 2: Interactive and New Media Communication
- Introduction to User Interface and User Experience
- Visual Merchandising
Semester 3
- Art History and Visual Cultures
- Studio 3: Brand Development
- Packaging as a Brand Touchpoint: Strategy and Execution
- Design Research Seminar
- Open Elective 1
Semester 4
- Major Design Project
- Research Dissertation
- Curated Exhibition / Public Presentation
Practice beyond
the studio.
Learning combines studio practice, research, workshops, reviews and professional presentation.
Learning Methods
- Studio-Based Learning and Critiques
- Research-Integrated Practice
- Digital and Interdisciplinary Workshops
- Live Projects, Internships and Case Studies
- Design Showcases, Exhibitions and Reviews
- Portfolio Development and Professional Practice Labs
Assessment Methods
- Continuous assessment through studio output, research journals and design process documentation
- Mid-semester and end-semester critiques
- Industry-based evaluation for internships
- Final Major Project + Research Dissertation + Viva Voce
Where can
your practice take you?
Graduates can pursue professional, independent, academic, research and creative-industry pathways.
Art Director
Visual Brand Strategist
Advertising Designer
Creative Designer (Agency / Corporate)
Illustrator / Digital Illustrator
UI/UX Designer (Entry–Intermediate)
Motion Graphics Designer
Visual Storyteller
Design Consultant
Creative Entrepreneur
Educator / Academic Researcher
Research Scholar / Design Researcher
Build your practice.
Build your career.
Progress from developing a distinctive creative practice to independent professional, leadership and research opportunities.
Advanced Practice
Develop a distinctive body of work through sustained studio practice, experimentation and critique.
Research and Specialisation
Use research and contextual inquiry to deepen creative projects and develop a focused practice.
Professional Portfolio
Translate projects and process into a coherent portfolio for studios, agencies, galleries, organisations or independent practice.
Independent Practice
Pursue freelance, consultancy, entrepreneurial, exhibition or other self-directed opportunities.
Leadership and Research
Progress towards creative leadership, teaching, academic research and advanced research pathways.
Questions worth
asking.
A few of the questions students often have about the programme.
What is the MFA in Applied Art?
What areas can students specialise in?
Is a portfolio required?
Can graduates pursue research and academia?
Your practice deserves
a wider audience.
Speak to our admissions counsellor for clarity on courses, careers, eligibility and the application process.