The National College
Masters Courses & Research
The National College of Art and Design is the major provider of postgraduate studies in art and design nationally, and is committed to growth and excellence in this area. We offer a range of specialisms and interdisciplinary options, and are currently expanding the range of opportunities and programmes for postgraduate study. (See www.ncad.ie/research)
The College provides a unique interdisciplinary, practice-oriented and a theoretically-engaged context for postgraduate work in the studio. NCAD also provides a unique context for written thesis workof a historical, critical or theoretical nature which addresses the study of art, design, education or cultural practices in general.
We welcome applications from graduates in art or design practice, history of art and design, and education. However, we are also open to applications from other disciplines including (but not limited to) performance studies, philosophy, history, cultural studies, communications and new technology/new media subject areas.
A key requirement in applying to pursue research-led or practice-based postgraduate work is the submission of a research proposal.
This should be a concise, clear and detailed outline of a programme of work. It should identify the context of the project proposed, the aim of the project and the question or theme at the heart of the research project.
Entry Requirements and Application Procedure
Click on the links below for detailed application information for either taught Masters programmes or Masters by research:
Taught Masters
- MA Art in the Contemporary World
- MA in Art in the Digital World
- MA Design History and Material Culture
- MA in Visual Arts Education
Masters by Research
- Fine Art*, Design*, Education, Core Studies, Visual Culture
*including studio only Masters in Design and Fine Art
There are opportunities to pursue Masters studies by research project in each of the Faculties. Opportunities for practical study – through studio or practical project work – are provided in the Fine Art Faculty, the Design Faculty, the Education Faculty and through the Core Studies Department. Opportunities to pursue study by written thesis are available in the Faculty of Education and in the Faculty of Visual Culture.
Typically, a Masters by research (thesis or practical work) will take a minimum of two years study.
Interdisciplinary Research Projects
The College especially welcomes interdisciplinary researchers and practitioners, and we are committed to tailoring research supervision to the needs of the individual practitioner or researcher. If you have a specific interdisciplinary project that you would like to propose for study at NCAD, please contact the Head of Research and Postgraduate Development at postgraduate@ncad.ie. Further information is available on-line at www.ncad.ie/research.
