Master of Contemporary Art Practices

The Master of Contemporary Art Practices (MCAP) is a practice-focused, cross-disciplinary degree aimed at artists who want to develop a more ambitious, independent contemporary art practice.

The program is built around hands-on learning development in workshop and studio environments, providing students with practice-led research opportunities across a wide range of disciplines:

  • Ceramics, Glass, Painting, Photography and Media Arts, Printmedia and Drawing, Sculpture and Spatial Practice, Textiles and Design.
  • Centre for Art History and Art Theory

Contemporary artists respond to the challenges and questions that arise in an increasingly global and technologically advanced world. Their approaches are diverse, combining materials, methods and subjects that extend their practice. Artists today increasingly problem solve, collaborate with a variety of partners, and think and work outside of the traditional boundaries that distinguish a contemporary practice.

The Master of Contemporary Art Practices provides students with access to:

  • Comprehensive workshops, studios, digital facilities and new technologies
  • A suite of specialised courses that support research training and cohort building
  • Research-focused academic staff with high-profile art historical and art and design practices
  • Interdisciplinary learning across studio disciplines
  • Recognition and commitment to the land, knowledge and cultures of the First Australian Peoples
  • Strong networks within a vibrant community of practicing artists, designers, curators and writers
  • Proximity to national cultural institutions, policy makers and art and design organisations.

Our students graduate with the qualifications, knowledge, experience and problem-solving skills required to succeed as a practicing artist and engage with a broad range of industries.

Our scholarship programs are designed to support students from diverse backgrounds and abilities, and we automatically consider applicants for some of them upon application.

*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024

^Times Higher Education - Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24

Image: Textiles by Wanting Liu

Key facts

3 in Australia
38 for Arts and Humanities in World*

1 year full-time
Semester 1 intake
Advanced option available

#1 in Australia for graduate employability^

UAC Code: 830024
CRICOS Code: 108308E

Career options

Graduates participate competitively in the art and design sector in order to sustain and develop an independent practice or business, or work within the creative industry sector.

Hear from our students

In my country, the ANU is referred to as the number one university in Australia.
Prajdnik Awasthi , Master of Digital Arts

Watch the video

Fees, scholarships & apply

Tuition fees

Visit the handbook to see indicative fees and Commonwealth supported places for this degree.

Scholarships

ANU offers many scholarships both to overcome disadvantage and to recognise academic merit.

How to apply

You have decided that ANU is the right university for you. Ready to take the next step?

Learn more

Check our series of videos about degree programs, majors and disciplines, and research strengths for your enjoyment.

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Discover the support available to help you plan your career.