Arts University Bournemouth United Kingdom

MA Painting

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Painting at Arts University Bournemouth invites you to explore the dynamic and increasingly relevant field of contemporary painting practice. As this discipline experiences a significant resurgence, demonstrated by major exhibitions and critical attention, this postgraduate course offers a dedicated space to investigate painting's unique position within visual arts. You will delve into the materiality of the painted object, its rich global cultural history, and the essential relationship between artist and medium, preparing you to establish a distinctive voice in fine art. This Master's degree is designed for those ready to engage deeply with painting theory and application.

Studied full-time on campus over one year, your MA Painting journey at Arts University Bournemouth is built upon a cross-fertilisation of practical application and contemporary painting discourse. Through independent studio practice, critiques, workshops, and seminars led by leading practitioners and academics, you will develop advanced understanding and confidence in situating your creative work. You will explore units such as 'The Painted Language' and 'Everything in its Wrong Place', fostering material exploration and critical dialogue. Upon graduation, you will present a resolved body of work, ready for exhibition, and be equipped for diverse professional pathways within the contemporary art world.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts in Painting program offers a comprehensive exploration of contemporary painting practices. You will delve into the materials, methods, and contexts that shape the painted language, engaging in critical inquiry to elucidate your artistic vision. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of intellectual, emotional, and technical skills, culminating in the purposeful and integrous exhibition of your work, with flexible full-time and part-time pathways available to suit your needs.

1 Unit 1: The painted language (Materials, methods, contexts)

2 Unit 2: Everything in its wrong place (Explore, enquire, elucidate)

3 Unit 3: Head, Heart and Hand (Purpose, integrity, exhibit)

4 Full-time and part-time pathways

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,966.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 26,966.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 751.00 - USD 2,021.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Wallisdown Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsBroadcasting & TelevisionDigital Media & Online PublishingJournalism & ReportingMedia Production & EditingMuseums & Cultural HeritagePhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentarySocial Media & Content StrategyTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Why Study MA Painting at Arts University Bournemouth

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Arts University Bournemouth in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Painting at Arts University Bournemouth

Can I work while studying?

International students enrolled in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. No separate work permit is needed for this course.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply, international students must meet specific English language requirements. For TOEFL, an overall score of 92 is needed, while IELTS requires a minimum of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Fine Artists, Art Educators, Art Directors, Gallery Curators, or Art Therapists.

What will I actually study in this course?

Enjoying a growing resurgence in the last decade, recent exhibitions such as Painters’ Painters at the Saatchi Gallery and upcoming Radical Figures: Painting in the New Millennium at the Whitechapel gallery demonstrate a renewed interest in painting and acknowledgement of its unique and innovative position within contemporary visual practice.

Painting defines its particular practice through the peculiarities of the painted field; the making

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Painting program has two intakes each year, in January and September. Make sure to apply before the deadlines to secure your place.
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