This specialist degree provides a high-quality academic qualification in the theory and practice of the fine arts that carries credibility both nationally and internationally and empowers artists in their pursuit of national and international recognition. The Master of Fine Arts differs from other fine arts degrees in that it assumes a high level of both theoretical and practical expertise in fine arts. Students without this background are required to do preliminary work. The Master of Fine Arts consists of a combination of thesis and creative work. Students complete an exhibition of original artwork showing technical accomplishment and imaginative resource, an essay of 4500 to 5500 words on the work in the exhibition and a thesis on an aspect of arts theory, history or criticism.