ObjectivesIndependent Study offers professional and academic development across a wide range of art and design career paths, including consultancy and design management. It can also lead to further PhD research study. Applicants are invited to submit proposals for their own, unique programme leading to an MSc or MA award. Students are able to exercise considerable choice and control over the aims of their programme, the content and context of their studies, and the criteria against which achievement is assessed. Independent study allows students to address professional, creative, and personal concerns within a structured framework. It provides them with the opportunity to extend and develop existing skills and interests or even to branch out into a completely new field.
Entry requirementsAt least a second class honours degree, or equivalent gained through professional development, plus a capacity for autonomous study. Applicants who do not have a degree, or equivalent qualification, will be invited to provide evidence of prior learning gained in their career or through personal development, that equips them for entry to this programme. All applicants with relevant qualifications will be invited for interview, and may be asked to bring a portfolio
Academic titleMA/Msc Independent Study in Art and Design
Course descriptionProgramme
Independent study is challenging: it demands a high degree of self-management and self-motivation, since students will normally engage in a substantial amount of study while off-campus. Students begin by submitting an initial proposal in their application form. Each student is then assisted in compiling their own learning contract by their mentor, who will be experienced in the proposed fi eld of study. This learning contract is submitted to the Registration Board for approval, and students begin their course of study. The range of specialisms we offer includes:
-Architectural Conservation, Architecture, Construction Technology, Interior Design and Architecture, Spatial Design
-Art and Design Education
-Computer Games Design, Digital Animation, Interface Design, Multimedia Design, Sound Design
-Applied Art - Ceramics, Design Crafts, Glass, Jewellery, Metalsmithing
-Design Management and Innovation
-Furniture Design, Industrial Design, Product Design
-Fine Art - Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Video and Photographic Practice
-Fashion and Textiles - Contour Fashion, Fashion Buying, Fashion Design, Fashion Knitwear, Footwear Design, Printed Textiles, Textile Design and Technology
-Photography, History of Photography, Graphic Design, Illustration, Video, Video Production.
Study may be full or part-time, or a mixture of both. The shortest period of study for the Masters programme is one year full-time. The full-time route entails a commitment to study of about forty hours per week over forty-eight weeks of the year, and the part-time route a corresponding proportion of time. Assessment is defined in the learning contract but is normally continuous through a variety of coursework assignments, plus a major project or dissertation. All students attend a final assessment interview in Leicester at the end of the programme.
The Faculty has a wide range of specialist facilities, workshops, studios and computer suites, across all subject areas. Depending on the area studied these will be available to students taking the MA/MSc by Independent Study. Academic staff will be pleased to discuss facilities individually with students before the application is made.