ViNCO, in conjunction with the Graphic Design and History of Art subject groups, currently offers three postgraduate programmes: Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice), Master of Arts in History of Art, and Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts with History of Art. For more information please contact vinco@nwu.ac.za.
Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice)
Offered in Potchefstroom
The Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice) is a two- to three-year part- or full-time programme culminating in the completion of coursework and a mini-dissertation. The programme is structured along four compulsory modules: Design Theory and Research Methodology; Graphic Design: Process; Graphic Design: Practical Portfolio; Mini-dissertation.
The primary purpose of this Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice) is to educate and train design researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of Graphic Design at an advanced level that is inspired by the vision and objectives of the research niche ViNCO. The Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice) qualification creates opportunities for continued personal and intellectual growth, valuable economic activity and contributions to the community in the fast-developing design industry in South Africa through advanced education and study. The qualification supplies South Africa with developing graphic designers who have the necessary theoretical background and are capable of practical skills, with specialisation and craftsmanship in a recognised subdiscipline in the design industry. This further contributes to the expansion of the leadership base for innovative and knowledge-based economic and academic activity in the country. This qualification is further intended to train researchers to actively and appropriately contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field of graphic design, as it provides the foundation for scholars wishing to pursue a doctorate.
To qualify for admission to the Master of Arts in Graphic Design (Practice), a student must have a relevant four-year Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design that exits at Level 8, or a relevant Bachelor of Arts honours degree in Graphic Design or a related field, or a relevant postgraduate diploma at Level 8 or the equivalent of these as approved by the NWU Senate. A prospective student must also comply with all other requirements set out in General Rule A.5.2 of the University.
Master of Arts in History of Art
Offered remotely
The Master of Arts in History of Art is a two- to three-year part- or full-time programme culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a dissertation. Students are offered the opportunity to undertake independent research in a particular subject area under the guidance of a supervisor. The theme of the dissertation is based on individual interest in the field of History of Art and Visual Studies and on the availability of supervisor expertise. In addition, the subject of the dissertation is founded on a keen interest to contribute to the vision and research objectives of the research niche ViNCO.
To gain admission to this master’s degree, apart from the requirements set out in General Rule A.5.2 of the University, the following admission requirements apply: a student must have obtained an honours degree in the relevant field of study with a minimum average of 65%. Alternatively, applicants must have the status of such a qualification granted on request by the Senate by attaining a level of competence that, in the opinion of the Senate, on the recommendation of the faculty, is adequate for admission as a candidate for the degree. An applicant for registration must give evidence of their attainments and education and complete such preliminary work as the Senate may require, and must satisfy the Senate as to the suitability of their subject of choice. An evaluation certificate as issued by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) must be submitted if a previous qualification was obtained in a foreign country.
Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts with History of Art
Offered remotely
The PhD in Visual and Performing Arts with History of Art strives to provide training for an academic career in the field of visual and performing arts. It requires a candidate to research the most advanced academic levels, culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis. A candidate may also present peer-reviewed academic articles and papers in partial fulfilment of the research requirements. Through the Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts, candidates will be provided with the opportunity to undertake independent research and advanced study that is encouraged by the vision and objectives of the research niche ViNCO. Under the guidance of a promotor in a particular subject area, the thesis must constitute a substantial contribution to the national and international advancement of knowledge and understanding in the field of the visual and performing arts through original research.
Apart from the requirements set out in General Rule A.5.2 of the University, the following admission requirements apply: A candidate must have a master’s degree in History of Art or an equivalent qualification obtained with an average mark of 65%. Acceptance of candidates for the PhD is subject to: (i) the availability of expertise in the field, and (ii) the capacity of staff to guide the study. The postgraduate committee may, if necessary, request the candidate to write an academic essay to ensure admission.