About the programme
The Master of Fine Arts is an NZQF Level 9 programme at Whitecliffe, taken over two years of full-time study (240 credits), that prepares artists for professional careers in contemporary art in New Zealand and internationally. The first year sits at Level 8 and the second at Level 9.
The MFA is low residency: it is mainly delivered at a distance, with in-person seminars, so students can live and work anywhere in New Zealand. Each year is built around four week-long seminars led by faculty and guests who are respected artists, critics, writers and curators in New Zealand and abroad. Based on their interests and planned direction, each student is given two supervisors who support the development of their studio practice from one semester to the next.
The core of the programme is supervised studio research alongside contextual studies, and students are expected to direct their own learning and keep developing professionally. Its interdisciplinary approach helps artists understand how art and artworks function in the world. Regular critiques, seminars, interim reviews and a focus on exhibition and publication help each student shape a personal approach to practice and research, leading to a major creative project with a written component and a final exhibition at professional standard.
The degree is aimed at artists, designers and creative practitioners who already hold a relevant degree, from recent graduates to established artists. Students can use Whitecliffe's studios and printmaking, photography, video and digital labs in Auckland. Graduates can move on to Level 10 doctoral study.
Entry requirements
- A Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent with a GPA of B– or above (GPA 4) in the final undergraduate year.
- A portfolio and significant exhibition or professional experience as an artist or designer.
- A Statement of Research Intent and evidence of academic writing ability.
- An interview.
- International applicants: IELTS Academic 6.5 with no band below 6.0, or equivalent, and NZ visa requirements.
What you study
- Supervised studio research with two supervisors
- Contextual and theoretical studies
- Four week-long in-person seminars each year with visiting artists, critics and curators
- Critiques and interim reviews
- Exhibition and publication practice
- Major creative project with written research and a final exhibition
Careers after graduation
- Exhibiting artist in New Zealand or overseas
- Curator or Gallery Manager
- Tertiary Teacher
- Art Consultant or Art Project Manager
- Art Magazine Editor
- Researcher, including doctoral study
Post-study work visa
Up to 3 years
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 20/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitecliffe website