Master of Fine Art

The MFA is an advanced course for students of exceptional ability. The course objectives are to enable such students who have gained the Bachelor of Fine Art degree to further refine their ideas, technical abilities and powers of self-analysis in order to continue to develop in artists.

Candidates are not normally admitted to the MFineArt unless they are in possession of a Bachelor of Fine Art degree.

Persons who are able to give satisfactory evidence of their qualifications (formal or informal) may be specially exempted from the normal entrance requirements for the degree and may register as Ad Eundem Gradum students.

Candidates should be able to communicate in English.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Candidates are granted credit for equivalent prior learning and experience as determined by the University rules governing the recognition of prior learning and experience.

1. The MFA graduate is competent to apply specialist artistic knowledge and skills to the initiation, planning and production of advanced art works in the professional art world environment.
2. Communicate effectively.
3. Co-operate with others to pursue the common good.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the ever-expanding and ever-changing nature of knowledge and appreciate the need for life-long learning.

1. In order to meet this outcome MFA graduates are able to meet the following criteria

• Demonstrate an advanced capacity for independent thinking and analysis.
• Display a sophisticated understanding of contemporary art making, within the context of the individual's art practice.
• Have an advanced understanding of appropriate area (or areas) of critical theory within which the subject of the work is located.
• Demonstrate the capacity to undertake research in art history and related theoretical areas.
• Demonstrate a capacity for sustained periods of self-directed visual investigation.
• Be highly skilled in an appropriate art medium or media.
• Be competent in the organisation and mounting of exhibitions.
• Be familiar with the professional structure of galleries and other art world institutions as well as grant awarding bodies and cultural wings of national and local government.
• Exhibit the capacity for independently initiated self-criticism and analysis.
• Display professionalism and sophistication in the execution and exhibition of art works.

2. In order to meet this outcome, learners will

• Use oral and written forms of language appropriately and effectively;
• Present material/construct arguments in an organised and articulate manner;
• Use appropriate technology to facilitate communication;
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the multi-cultural and multi-lingual nature of South African society.

3. In order to meet this outcome, learners will

• Work as a member of a team or group;
• Recognise and acknowledge different perspectives and values;
• Be aware that judgements have moral and ethical implications and will act accordingly where appropriate.

4. In order to meet this outcome, learners will

• Demonstrate an awareness of the limits of their own knowledge;
• Demonstrate an awareness of human fallibility;
• Search for and find relevant information;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the role of research in academic enquiry as well as an awareness of a range of research approaches and techniques;
• Be able to apply basic research techniques under guidance.

Integrated assessment appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved.

1. Assessment procedures adhere to Rhodes University Assessment Policy.
2. Assessment entails three elements.

• Continual formal assessment both formative and summative
• Continual informal assessment (formative)
• Formal end of course assessment (summative)

The course work on which continuous assessment is based includes work done individually and in groups, and may consist of combinations of tests, essays, practical reports and seminars.