UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG

Postgraduate Studies

Masters Courses in Fine Arts

We offer two kinds of masters courses in our discipline:

1. MA by Research in Fine Arts (AMC008)
2. MA by Coursework and Research Report in Fine Arts (in abeyance)

MA by Research in Fine Arts

This is a 2 year (full-time) or 3 year (part-time) programme which requires 2 equally weighted components to be completed: a body of practical creative work and a written dissertation not exceeding 25 000 words (excluding notes, bibliography, illustrations).

The practical creative work should be catalogued and documented in the written dissertation. There should be a clear but flexible relationship between the theory and practical components, with at least a section of the dissertation addressing significant aspects of the practical work. Since this course does not involve any taught coursework components, it is geared towards independent research under the guidance from a supervisor.

MA by Coursework and Research Report in Fine Arts

(in abeyance)

This degree can be completed over one year (full-time) or over 2 years (part-time). Students are required to complete 2 taught coursework components in the first semester and the third in the second semester. These 3 courses are:

FINA 7012 - The Construction of Contemporary South African Art

FINA 7013 - Art Critical Writing

FINA 7002 - Exhibition Practice in Contemporary Visual Art (second semester)

    (Students write 3 assignments and a 3 hour examination (in June) for each of these courses. After completion of these courses, students are required to complete a body of practical work (or equivalent, e.g. curating an exhibition), and a research report (minimum of 10 000 words, excluding notes, bibliography)

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for any MA degree in WSOA is a minimum 65% in the major subjects for the undergraduate degree. Apart from this, we interview each candidate, part of which involves viewing a portfolio of recent work. You are also required to submit a full proposal of the research you intend to do (guidelines for the writing of this proposal can be requested from the division via e-mail). Our division will review all applications after the interview and submission of the proposal and will notify applicants of our decision.

In order to apply for any of these courses you would need to contact Mr Walter Oltmann to arrange for an interview. If an interview is not possible you may send by post or via the internet a selection of images of your work.
Transcripts of your academic record must be provided with your application. These must be certified copies, i.e. stamped/signed by that institution or Commissioner of Oaths. You should also provide the names of two referees from academic or professional people familiar with your work. Application forms can be found on the Wits website: www.wits.ac.za under 'Student Enrolment Centre'. Make a printout, fill in by hand and send this with all other material to:
Walter Oltmann

    Division of Fine Arts
    Private Bag 3
    Wits 2050

Course co-ordinator contact details