Glass MA
Arts University Plymouth Campus, United Kingdom
Master of Arts in Glass
Arts University Plymouth
Glass / Craft & Design
MA Glass at Arts University Plymouth — Program Overview
The MA Glass at Arts University Plymouth invites you to study the unique art and refined techniques of studio glassmaking in a program dedicated to the history, material and culture of glass. Based in purpose-built hot glass and kiln-formed glass studios, you will explore both traditional and contemporary approaches to this ancient art form, gaining the hands-on expertise necessary to master its processes as an independent maker.
You will be taught the fundamental properties and behaviours of glass and how it came to be developed as a material of significant utility. Learning its history and many applications will open up your individual pathway of practice-led research into how glass might be reimagined or innovatively applied in a contemporary context.
The program emphasises sustainable, non-extractive and regenerative approaches to working with materials, placing you at the forefront of alternative ways of making that support new, more sustainable industries. You will also have access to Fab Lab South West, part of the international MIT Fab Lab network, enabling you to unite time-honoured glass processes with innovative digital fabrication methods.
Key Program Highlights
- Learn in one of the few remaining university-based hot glass studios in the UK, equipped with an electrically powered glass furnace, glory-holes, kilns and coldworking facilities.
- Develop your ideas within a purpose-built Materials Lab and Fab Lab South West, combining traditional glass processes with digital fabrication technologies.
- Opportunities for professional placements or study abroad, including partnerships with glass studios in Murano, Venice and other international locations.
- Join a cross-disciplinary postgraduate community with access to metal, jewellery, ceramics and resistant materials workshops alongside your glass specialism.
Curriculum & Modules — MA Glass
The MA Glass program is structured through three sequential phases or modules that support you in investigating, testing and developing your ideas in depth. Core tuition includes advanced training in specialist glass disciplines, research methods, critical thinking, research ethics, project design, professional codes and conceptual frameworks.
Research and Development
60 CreditsThis introductory module encourages a reflective investigation of your practice and examines the role of research methods in creative disciplines. You will refine your research proposal through a process of making to ensure it can act as a robust framework for your study.
Collaboration, Impact and Entrepreneurship
60 CreditsThis module offers an opportunity to test the practices being investigated within an appropriate, live setting. You will identify collaborations and public-facing opportunities that strengthen your identity as a creative practitioner.
Final Masters Project
60 CreditsThe culmination of your Masters level studies, this module requires you to clearly communicate the central ideas, concepts and skills developed throughout the program. You will demonstrate evidence of advanced technical, conceptual, theoretical and project management capability.
Hot Glass Techniques
EmbeddedSpecialist technical training in glass-blowing, furnace work and hot glass forming processes using state-of-the-art electrically powered equipment. Skills are developed throughout the program and integrated into your research projects.
Kiln-Formed Glass & Coldworking
EmbeddedHands-on training in kiln forming, casting, slumping, fusing, and coldworking techniques including grinding, shaping and polishing glass forms. These skills support a wide range of potential outcomes from sculpture to architectural installations.
Digital Fabrication for Glass
EmbeddedExplore contemporary approaches using digital modelling, 3D mould-making, waterjet cutting technologies and CAD CAM processes through Fab Lab South West, combining traditional glass heritage with cutting-edge digital tools.
Specialist Focus Areas
Admission Requirements for MA Glass
Admission to the MA Glass program is based on a combination of academic qualifications, creative portfolio and personal statement. The university values the strength of your creative practice and professional experience alongside formal qualifications, and all applicants are invited for an interview as part of the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationUndergraduate degree at 2:2 (Lower Second Class Honours) or above, normally in an art, design, craft or media discipline.
- Professional ExperienceEquivalent professional knowledge and demonstrated industry experience may be considered in individual cases.
- PortfolioA portfolio of creative work showing examples of work you have made, organised or been involved in. Digital images are accepted.
- Research ProposalAn initial research proposal explaining the kind of work you want to create during the MA program and identifying your key professional aims.
- Personal StatementA personal statement outlining your motivations, creative interests and how the program aligns with your professional goals.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- PTE AcademicOverall score of 50 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
- Trinity ISEIntegrated Skills in English II (ISE II - Level B2) at pass level, with a pass in all components.
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Arts University Plymouth offers a range of scholarships and financial awards to support postgraduate students, including international applicants. These merit-based awards are designed to help offset the costs of your MA studies. Contact Uni4Edu for full details on eligibility and how to apply.
Creative Scholarship
Up to GBP 2,000Awarded on merit via a panel to students entering the first year of a postgraduate course. Applicants must meet benchmarks for excellence of portfolio and demonstrate a commitment to study. Portfolio submission is required for eligibility.
Alumni Progression Award
15% fee discountAvailable to graduates of Arts University Plymouth undergraduate, pre-degree and Foundation Diploma programmes who progress to postgraduate study. The discount applies regardless of when you previously studied at the university.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for MA Glass Graduates
Graduates of the MA Glass program at Arts University Plymouth are well-prepared for diverse careers across the creative industries. The program develops both traditional craft expertise and contemporary design thinking, equipping you with the skills to work independently as a maker or within established studios, design firms and cultural institutions.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employers & Industry Connections
Rankings & Recognition
Arts University Plymouth is a specialist arts university with a strong reputation for student satisfaction, teaching quality and creative facilities. While it is a small, specialist institution and does not appear in general global university rankings, it consistently performs at the top of UK student experience measures and is recognised nationally for its distinctive creative education model.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts, Drama & Music | Complete University Guide | Top 10 |
| Teaching Excellence | Daily Mail University Guide | Top 10 |
| Student Support | Whatuni Student Choice Awards | #1 South West England |
| Staff-to-Student Ratio | Complete University Guide | #2 in the UK |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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