Master of Arts (Thesis)
The University of Canterbury (UC) in New Zealand is renowned for its academic excellenc...
Master of Fine Arts - Graphic Design (Research)
Christchurch
INTAKE: February
Program Overview
The Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (Research) at the University of Canterbury offers an advanced exploration of visual communication, design theory, and creative practice within the field of graphic design.
Curriculum: The curriculum focuses on advanced studies covering areas such as design history, typography, branding, user experience (UX) design, design thinking, and advanced visual communication strategies. Students engage in practical projects and theoretical studies.
Research Focus: Emphasizing research-driven learning, the program encourages students to explore various research areas within graphic design, including but not limited to visual narrative, information design, sustainable design practices, interactive design, and emerging technologies in design.
Industry Engagement: The University of Canterbury fosters connections with the design industry, providing students opportunities for internships, collaborations with design firms, industry projects, and exhibitions. This engagement offers exposure to real-world design challenges and practices.
Global Perspective: The Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design program integrates a global perspective by examining international design trends, cultural influences on design, and global design practices. Students analyze diverse design approaches and understand the impact of cultural context on visual communication.
Location
Christchurch
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
NZD 40600
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 50% or higher in the previous academic degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 19.
- PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Canterbury is dedicated to providing support to international students through various scholarship programs designed to recognize academic excellence, diversity, and specific areas of achievement. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden and promote educational opportunities for talented individuals from around the world.
UC International First Year Scholarships: Geared towards high-achieving international students beginning their first year of study at UC. These scholarships acknowledge exceptional academic performance and assist students in their initial year of education at the university.
UC Master's Scholarships: For high-achieving international students pursuing Master's degrees at UC. These scholarships provide financial support to assist students in their postgraduate studies and promote research excellence.
UC Doctoral Scholarships: Aimed at international students undertaking Ph.D. studies at UC. These scholarships offer financial assistance and opportunities for research excellence in various fields of study.
Specific Field Scholarships: Additionally, UC offers specialized scholarships catering to students entering specific fields or disciplines. These scholarships encourage innovation and excellence in targeted areas of study.
Graduates from the Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (Research) program at the University of Canterbury acquire advanced skills in visual communication, design thinking, and creative problem-solving, enabling them to explore diverse career paths within the field of graphic design.
Graphic Designer: Graduates can work as graphic designers, creating visual concepts using computer software or traditional techniques to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers.
Art Director: With experience and creative vision, graduates can become art directors, overseeing the visual style and artistic elements of projects, leading design teams, and ensuring cohesive visual identities across various media.
UX/UI Designer: Graduates can specialize in user experience (UX) or user interface (UI) design, focusing on creating engaging and intuitive digital experiences for websites, applications, or interactive media.
Brand Identity Designer: Graduates can work in brand identity design, crafting visual identities, logos, and brand strategies for companies, ensuring consistency in brand messaging across different platforms.
Packaging Designer: With expertise in packaging design, graduates can design product packaging, considering both aesthetics and functionality to attract consumers and enhance brand recognition.
Web Designer/Developer: Graduates can work as web designers or developers, creating visually appealing and functional websites, incorporating design elements and technical skills.
Design Educator/Researcher: With a research focus, graduates can pursue careers in academia as design educators or researchers, contributing to design scholarship, teaching, and advancing the field through research and publication.
