Master of Arts - Fine Art

The MA in Fine Art (MAFA) programmes at Limerick School of Art and Design embrace the evolving role of the artist in society, positioning participants at the forefront of contemporary practice. Central to the programmes is a distinctive approach to embedded professional practice, actively integrating students into existing professional networks and real-world contexts. These programmes offer artists, cultural producers, and creative thinkers the opportunity to practice within a stimulating and supportive environment. The programmes comprise four 10-credit taught modules focusing on key areas such as Research, Collaboration, Communication, and Context, alongside a 50-credit practice-based project module and a 30-credit self-directed final research realisation and presentation module. These components enable students to develop a sustainable practice upon graduation. A residency programme forms a core element, allowing participants to test their practice and transferable skills in real-world situations, significantly enhancing career prospects. The MAFA is designed to be completed over 16 months full-time, with a part-time option available. The programme includes taught modules, practical seminars, group critiques, and individual tutorials two days per week, with the remaining three days dedicated to practice-based, self-directed study. In the first two semesters, students complete the Navigating Practice module, developing a major practice-based project over the summer under the guidance of a personal supervisor. After one year, students may opt to exit with a 90-credit MA in Fine Art or continue for a further semester to complete the 120-credit MFA. The final semester focuses on reflection and culminates in the 30-credit module, Towards a Sustainable Practice, where students produce a written document examining their practice conceptually, theoretically, and methodologically, fully contextualising their work. The MFA and MAFA programmes emphasise a practice-based approach, fostering hands-on creation and innovative artistic expression across diverse media, from traditional to digital forms. Participants benefit from connections to cultural hubs in Limerick and internationally, including film studios and design spaces, while interdisciplinary collaboration across science, technology, and social sciences broadens artistic networks. The programmes support the development of a unique artistic identity and provide opportunities for real-world creative experiences through residencies, exhibitions, funding initiatives, and partnerships. Students are encouraged to disseminate their work through research, writing, collaboration, and project management, enabling visibility across gallery, digital, and social platforms, and amplifying their creative voice through installations, performances, and scholarly outputs.