Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
The University of Sydney (Higher Degree by Research) Rule 2011 provides a framework for all higher degrees offered by research at the University, ie masters degrees by research, doctorates by research, and higher doctorates by research.
Course structure and requirements
The Master of Fine Arts is normally undertaken on a full-time basis. Full-time candidates are allocated a studio space at Rozelle Campus and will be expected to complete the degree requirements in two years. Generally speaking, candidates will be expected to devote the equivalent of a 35-hour week to their research.
Part-time candidature is available on a limited basis and subject to faculty approval. Part-time candidates must complete requirements in three years and may not be allocated studio space within SCA.
Candidates are required to nominate one of the following methods of candidature:
- by creative work and research paper, culminating in a substantial exhibition, screening, performance or installation of works in a joint show of candidates at the end of candidature, together with the research paper of 10,000–12,000 words and an oral presentation, or
- by thesis of 35,000–50,000 words in the field of art theory, art history, cultural studies or professional studies in visual art.
Over the first two semesters candidates attend a weekly seminar program dedicated to the discussion of individual research and contemporary visual arts practice. At the end of each semester candidates must complete written work prescribed by the academic staff members coordinating the seminar series. Part-time candidates must attend the seminars within the first two years, and in consecutive semesters. In the first two semesters candidates may also be required to undertake study in research and professional practice. In the third and fourth semesters candidates attend the Graduate School Forum.
For more information about the examination process please refer to the Postgraduate Research Guide, which provides essential information for MFA Candidates and Supervisors.
Course rules
These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Higher Degree by Research) Rule 2011 (the 'HDR Rule'), the Academic Board resolutions relating to the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy and the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended).
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Code
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Course and stream title
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VC003
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Master of Fine Arts
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(1)
To be eligible to be admitted to candidature by the Dean or Associate Dean, an applicant must:
(a)
hold or have completed the requirements for:
(i) the degree of Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) from the University of Sydney; or
(ii) the degree of Bachelor of Visual Arts and the Graduate Diploma of Visual Arts from the University of Sydney; and
(b)
present evidence of having the aptitude required for undertaking the course, by the method nominated, through a portfolio and/or interview.
(2)
The Dean or Associate Dean may admit to candidature an applicant who does not meet the requirements of sub-clause (1), provided that the applicant holds a qualification or qualifications that, in the opinion of the Faculty Graduate School Committee, are equivalent to those prescribed in sub-clause (1).
(1)
An applicant for admission to candidature must submit to the Faculty:
(a)
satisfactory evidence of the applicant's eligibility for admission;
(b)
the proposed method of candidature: by research and thesis; or by studio practice and research;
(c)
a proposed course of research and advanced study;
(d)
for applicants wishing to proceed by creative work and research paper, a portfolio of creative work reflecting the applicant's recent art practice;
(e)
a statement certifying the applicant's understanding that, subject to the HDR Rule, if the candidature is successful, his or her thesis will be lodged with the University Librarian and made available for immediate public use;
(f)
evidence of minimum English language requirements, where not demonstrated by academic qualifications;
(g)
the contact details of two academic referees;
(h)
evidence of scholarly publications including journals and conferences; and
(i)
evidence of public exhibitions or performances.
(2)
In addition, an applicant for admission to part-time candidature must submit a statement that he or she will have sufficient time available to complete the requirements of the degree in accordance with these resolutions.
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The HDR Rule specifies the conditions for the granting of credit for previous studies, including the effect on completion times.
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The Head of Department will appoint a supervisor and associate supervisor for each candidate in accordance with the HDR Rule and Academic Board policies for postgraduate research higher degree supervision.
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The HDR Rule specifies the conditions for the control of candidature by the University.
0.
The HDR Rule specifies the conditions for the location of candidature and attendance by candidates at the University.
(1)
The degree is offered in the following subject areas:
(h)
Sculpture, Performance and Installation
(1)
To satisfy the requirements of the degree all candidates must:
(a)
complete any specified probationary requirements;
(b)
complete any prescribed units of study;
(c)
attend any prescribed weekly seminars and Graduate School fora; and
(d)
conduct research on the approved topic.
(2)
Candidates proceeding by thesis must also write a thesis embodying the results of the research.
(3)
Candidates proceeding by creative work and research paper must also:
(a)
submit for examination, at a joint exhibition by candidates, a substantial exhibition, screening, performance or installation of works; and
(b)
submit a research paper on an area relevant to the creative work.
(1)
A candidate proceeding by thesis shall produce a thesis that:
(a)
meets the requirements specified in the HDR Rule; and
(b)
is in the range of 35,000 to 50,000 words.
(2)
A candidate proceeding by creative work and research paper shall produce a research paper that:
(a)
meets the requirements specified in the HDR Rule; and
(b)
is in the range of 10,000 to 12,000 words.
(1)
A candidate is normally accepted for candidature on a probationary basis for a period not exceeding one year according to the provisions of the HDR Rule.
(2)
In the probationary period each candidate must:
(a)
complete a specified research methods unit of study;
(b)
develop and present a refined research proposal to the satisfaction of the Supervisor and Head of Department; and
(c)
demonstrate adequate English language competency for the completion of the degree.
0.
The HDR Rule specifies the allowable completion times and submission dates available for full- and part-time candidates in this course.
(1)
The attendance pattern for this course is normally full-time in the first year of candidature.
(2)
Candidates may apply to change to part-time candidature thereafter. Visa requirements commonly restrict international students to full-time study only.
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A candidate may discontinue enrolment in a unit of study or the degree subject to the conditions specified by the HDR Rule.
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A candidate may suspend enrolment from the degree subject to the conditions specified by the HDR Rule.
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A candidate may take leave of absence from the degree subject to the conditions specified by the HDR Rule.
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A candidate is required to maintain satisfactory progress towards the timely completion of the degree. Progress will be reviewed annually according to the provisions of the HDR Rule.
(1)
Examination of both the thesis and the creative work and research paper will be conducted in general accordance with standards prescribed by Academic Board for the Doctor of Philosophy, except that:
(a)
three copies of the thesis or research paper shall be submitted by the candidate;
(b)
two examiners will be appointed by the Faculty, at least one of whom shall be external to the University;
(c)
in the case of a candidate proceeding by creative work and research paper, the examiners will examine the creative work and the research paper at an oral examination chaired, in a non-voting capacity, by the Director of the Faculty's Graduate School or his/her nominee.
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The degree is awarded at the Pass level only.
(1)
These course resolutions apply to students who commenced their candidature after 1 January, 2012 and students who commenced their candidature prior to 1 January, 2012 who elect to proceed under these resolutions.
(2)
Candidates who commenced prior to 1 January, 2012 may complete the requirements in accordance with the resolutions in force at the time of their commencement, provided that requirements are completed within the time limits specified in those resolutions. The Dean or Associate Dean may specify a later date for completion or specify alternative requirements for completion of candidatures that extend beyond this time.