MFA Design for Interactive Art & Experiences

Overview

The MFA Design for Interactive Art Experiences will afford you the opportunity to develop your individual practice and make an in-depth exploration of design and visual arts principles for the creation of interactive and responsive environments. You will work with traditional and digital fabrication methods and apply programming for digital media, software and hardware. You will learn the skills and attitude to rapidly adopt new technology, software and hardware and bend it to your will.

Mode of Study:

Full-time

Duration:

2 years

Start date:

Sep

Course details

The MFA Interactive Art & Experiences programme works at the intersection of creativity and new and emerging technology, attracting applicants with backgrounds in both design and the visual arts, as well as computing and engineering.

Technologically driven creative interventions are deployed increasingly as objects or spaces, both as a form of critique on the challenges of modern life, and to enhance user experiences and the quality of life. Your studies will focus on and around interaction between the physical and the digital.

How you’ll be taught

This two year MFA offers students the opportunity to extend project work through an in depth, research-led creative enquiry. The first year of the programme is in tandem with the MA programmes and you will undertake six modules developing subject specific-skills and knowledge, external research, entrepreneurial collaboration, and practice-based research.

In the second year, you will extend your practice with two large modules: the self-directed Major Project with specialist supervisors, and Professional Practice with portfolio mentors. You will end the programme with a professional portfolio that enhances industry and employment opportunities or (with an emphasis on research) offers a robust gateway into PhD-level study.

Assessments

All assessments are project based with a focus on your individual attainment.

Work placement

You will have the opportunity to develop working linkages with practitioners in complementing fields of expertise that can be extended beyond your studies in professional spheres.

Facilities

Studies are studio based with activities taught in specialist spaces. You will develop prototypes and work with specialist technology and equipment. Where specific software or equipment is required for modules, it is provided. As this programme works at the cutting edge of digital technology, it is advantageous to have a good quality laptop.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at 2:2 or above. We look for applicants to have a background in any discipline in order to be eligible for the programme.

English language

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

International students

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Admissions policies

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study.

Fees & funding

Tuition fees for 2024/25

• Students from Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £5,410
• Overseas and EU: £12,850

You study this course over two academic years, fees listed are per annum. Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next.

Careers

What can you do with a MFA Design for Interactive Art & Experiences course?

The MFA Design for Interactive Art & Experiences programme offers you the chance to develop yourself as a practitioner. By developing skills in interaction design and responsive environments you will be able to apply your own creative sensibilities to create computer driven interactive work. While exploring your practice, you will have the opportunity to engage with both traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge digital fabrication techniques.

Graduates from this programme pathway are popular freelance contributors to large scale projects can pursue careers in:

• Interaction design
• Creative technology design
• Exhibition, museum and interpretation design
• Immersive experience design
• Curator and gallery designer

An MFA is considered a terminal degree in the U.S.A. and would provide you the opportunity to pursue an academic career there and in other countries.

What does an Interactive Art & Experience Designer do?

In this role, you utilise your creativity to transform spaces into captivating environments that educate, entertain, and inspire. You'll serve as the visionary architect behind several activities and experiential environments, blending art, technology, and narrative to create memorable experiences that engage diverse audiences. This type of designer often works in museums, exhibitions, theatre, immersive experience but the understanding of integrating the digital and the physical is in demand in most industries.

You work will see you collaborating with curators, artists, and technical experts to develop thematic concepts. You will be designing interactive and visually stunning environments that respond to visitors’ presence. You will have the skills to ensure every detail contributes to a cohesive and impactful visitor experience. You'll leverage your expertise in spatial design, lighting, and multimedia integration to create environments that are both functional and emotionally resonant. Your passion for design and your ability to blend aesthetics with functionality will set you apart as a master of immersive environments, inspiring wonder and curiosity.

Edinburgh Napier University

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Overview:

Edinburgh Napier University is a modern university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is renowned for its student learning experience and its commitment to innovation and enterprise. The university boasts a diverse student body with over 20,000 students from over 140 countries.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Libraries and Heritage Collections:

Access to extensive library resources and heritage collections.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options for students.

Student Life:

Opportunities for student engagement through clubs, societies, and events.

Funding:

Bursaries and scholarships to support students financially.

Career Services:

Guidance and support for career development and job searching.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students.

Online Study:

Flexible learning options through online courses.

Short Courses:

Opportunities for professional development through short courses.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Edinburgh Napier University provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:

Clubs and Societies:

Joining clubs and societies related to their interests.

Events:

Attending university-organized events and social gatherings.

Sports:

Participating in sports teams and activities.

Student Union:

Engaging with the student union for representation and support.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

High Rankings:

Consistently ranked among the top modern universities in Scotland and the UK.

Student Satisfaction:

High student satisfaction rates, reflecting a positive learning environment.

Research Power:

Strong research output and impact, contributing to knowledge advancement.

International Focus:

Diverse student body and global partnerships, fostering a multicultural environment.

Career-Focused Education:

Programs designed to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers.

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Academic Programs:

Edinburgh Napier University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting and Finance

Acting

Biological Sciences

Building and Surveying

Business and Management

Computing

Criminology, Psychology, and Sociology

Design, Photography, and Advertising

Engineering

English, Creative Writing, and Publishing

Film, Journalism, and Media

Health and Social Care

Law

Marketing

Music

Nursing and Midwifery

Sport and Exercise Sciences

Teaching

Tourism, Hospitality, Festival, and Events Management