Digital Arts (by Research) - MSc
Canterbury Campus, United Kingdom
Digital Arts (by Research) - MSc
University of Kent
Digital Arts
Program Overview: MSc Digital Arts (by Research)
The MSc by Research in Digital Arts at the University of Kent is an internationally recognised advanced postgraduate research degree that provides an ideal foundation for developing advanced skills and knowledge in digital media. Unlike traditional taught Masters programmes, this degree is heavily research or practice-based, meaning you learn through hands-on projects rather than taught modules.
The program allows you to focus on individual research skills, providing a strong foundation for students considering a doctoral degree (PhD), or it can be pursued via a practice-based approach that is more oriented toward industry. You will be assigned a supervisor who is a leading expert in their field, and the degree culminates in the submission of a written research dissertation examined by both an internal and external examiner.
Situated within the School of Engineering and Digital Arts, which has been established for over 40 years, you will benefit from a thriving research community of approximately 30 academic staff and over 130 postgraduate students. Research students in Digital Media work in a dedicated, state-of-the-art studio equipped with leading-edge Mac and PC workstations running industry-standard software.
Key Program Highlights
- Research-driven learning through hands-on projects with expert one-to-one supervision rather than traditional taught modules
- Flexible pathway options including academic research preparation for PhD or practice-based industry-oriented approach
- Access to state-of-the-art digital media studios equipped with industry-standard hardware and software
- Option to undertake the degree remotely as an External Research Degree or via traditional on-campus attendance at Canterbury
Research Structure & Modules
As a research-based MSc, this program does not follow a traditional modular structure with credit-bearing taught modules or written examinations. Instead, the degree is structured around a supervised research project with clearly defined tasks and milestones, typically requiring formal submissions every two months via the university's online learning system.
Project Definition and Literature Review
Research PhaseDefine your research topic in consultation with your supervisor and conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature and state-of-the-art developments in your chosen area of digital arts.
Research Methodology and Design
Research PhaseDevelop a rigorous research methodology appropriate to your project, whether it involves experimental design, practice-based inquiry, or computational analysis in digital media.
Prototype Development and Implementation
Research PhaseDesign and build prototypes, create digital artefacts, or implement experimental systems related to your research question, applying practical skills in areas such as VR, animation, or interactive design.
Data Collection and Analysis
Research PhaseGather and analyse data or evaluate creative outputs using appropriate qualitative or quantitative methods, documenting findings systematically for your dissertation.
Researcher Development Programme
Skills TrainingParticipate in workshops coordinated by Kent's Graduate School covering research skills, personal effectiveness, communication, networking, teamworking, and career management, mapped to the national Researcher Development Framework.
Dissertation Writing and Submission
Research PhaseCompile your research findings into a comprehensive written dissertation, which will be examined by one internal examiner and one external examiner, with an oral viva voce held at the examiners' discretion.
Example Research Topics
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MSc Digital Arts (by Research) is assessed on an individual basis. Candidates should demonstrate strong academic achievement in a relevant discipline along with a clear research interest in digital arts. Additional qualifications, professional experience, and relevant practical skills are also taken into account when considering applications.
Academic Requirements
- Minimum Degree ClassificationA 2.1 or higher honours degree (or international equivalent) in computing, multimedia, digital arts, or a related design subject
- Alternative QualificationMSc with Merit or above in a relevant discipline may also be accepted
- International EquivalencyThree or four-year undergraduate Honours Bachelor degree or Professional degree from an accredited institution
- Professional ExperienceRelevant professional qualifications and industry experience may be considered alongside academic credentials
- Research ProposalA clear outline of your intended research area and interests in digital arts is recommended
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.5 (contact Uni4Edu for component requirements)
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for the minimum required score
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for the minimum required score
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Kent offers a range of funding opportunities to support international postgraduate students. From merit-based scholarships to country-specific awards, there are several options to help reduce the financial burden of your studies. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on the latest available scholarships and eligibility criteria.
Kent International Scholarship for Masters Students
GBP 6,000 tuition fee reductionA competitive merit-based scholarship open to international fee-paying students beginning a postgraduate programme at the University of Kent. Awards are shortlisted based on academic achievement, personal statement, and references.
Kent Future Students Global Scholarship
GBP 2,000 tuition fee reductionAvailable to newly admitted full-time postgraduate students from a wide range of eligible countries. This scholarship is designed to ease financial pressure for international students at Kent.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MSc Digital Arts (by Research) are well-positioned for careers in the creative technology sector or for further academic research at doctoral level. The program develops key skills that employers value, including problem solving, independent thought, report writing, time management, leadership, and communication. Kent has a strong track record for postgraduate employability, with programmes developed in collaboration with industrial organisations.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Kent is a well-established public research university consistently ranked among the top UK institutions. It appears in multiple major international ranking systems and is recognised for its strong research output and student satisfaction across a range of disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | EduRank | #37 in UK |
| Engineering | EduRank | #45 in UK |
| Arts (QS by Subject) | QS | #260 globally |
| Film and Media Studies | QS (by Subject) | Top 10 in 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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