Course summary

In December 2024, the University of Bolton was granted permission by the Office for Students (OfS) to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester with immediate effect. While we work to update our systems, you may see both names used in the information we provide. The University of Bolton's innovative and dynamic MA (Specialist Title) via Creative Practice degree allows you to take your creative practice to the next level. Through an ethos of exploration and experimentation, our expert team will support you to develop your knowledge and practice to make you a Master of your chosen discipline. You may specialise in a single discipline or follow an interdisciplinary route. On completion, your degree title will be chosen to reflect the focus of your studies. The University of Bolton's MA (Specialist Title) via Creative Practice enables you to develop your unique body of creative practice in your specialised discipline(s) informed by established and emerging bodies of knowledge and practice. You may focus on a single discipline, such as Animation, Illustration, Art and Design, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Media, Performance, Photography, Textiles and Surface Design, Fashion, Creative Writing, Applied and Community Arts, or an associated subject. Alternatively, you may combine several areas of practice to follow an interdisciplinary route. When you successfully complete the master's, your degree title will be chosen to reflect the focus of your studies. We'll support you in developing a unique body of creative work through a series of negotiated projects underpinned and informed by industry practice. You'll work with a specialist supervisor who will provide support and guidance throughout the developmental process. You will undertake modules that investigate and provide context for your work in the contemporary landscape, enabling you to develop the necessary skills to undertake research at an advanced level. The Professional Practitioner module invites you to place your practice within a professional landscape to help you gain the skills to develop your industry profile and ensure your work reaches your desired audience. With a strong theoretical underpinning, this MA is designed to develop your skills in research, critique, and synthesis. We'll guide you as you learn to work with self‐direction and originality and develop your analytical and critical competencies. This combination of academic, creative, and professional skills development helps to prepare you for a career in the creative industries and provides a sound basis for doctoral-level study. The MA enables you to develop a considerable body of work and a plan for its future development beyond the course. This future development may take the form of applications for funding, exhibitions, publication(s), or small‐scale tours. Our industry‐engaged staff are practising artists, writers, and performers. You'll benefit from our strong industry links with a range of arts and cultural organisations across Greater Manchester and the North West region, which offer opportunities for industry masterclasses and lectures, joint projects, and networking.