The MA and MFA (Master of Fine Arts) courses are for graduates of appropriate disciplines who wish to follow a career in voice teaching and who seek specialised study and practice in voice and speech.
They are particularly likely to appeal to professionals who already have an interest in and knowledge of the voice and for applying it to the fields of performance practice, performance training or other related pedagogies – for example actors, directors, drama teachers, trained singers and speech therapists.
Both courses offer a masters award. The MA runs over one year, the MFA over two. The MFA offers a further embedding of skills and concepts learnt during its second year. In some countries, the MFA is more recognised, particularly if you are interested in teaching or research in a higher education environment.
MA and MFA Term One develops awareness of personal and professional needs and gives a foundation in practical skills, related academic disciplines, vocal pedagogy and research methods for the more applied work that follows.
MA and MFA Term Two builds on this by relating acquired knowledge and practical experience to the needs of others and seeks to develop your growing confidence and abilities. Practical experience of teaching, both of classes and of individuals in institutions where voice work is relevant, begins in this term.
MA and MFA Term Three consolidates the work already done and extends the teaching experience in a variety of contexts. It includes advice on preparation for a professional career.
MA Term Four is focused entirely on the preparation and submission of the MA portfolio.
In the first year of the MFA, students join the MA students for terms one to three of their course. The MFA extends into a second year that engages you with further specialist subject skills. You are offered extended and sustained experience, working closely with members of the related industry to establish yourself as a professional practitioner. In the second year of the course, you are encouraged to specialise in one or more directions, building on the first year teaching. The MFA second year widens the opportunities to practice knowledge within a context and framework where pertinent questions can be asked, protocols tested and new structures suggested. You will be expected to undertake tutorials and occasional seminars, although these may be via Skype or virtual seminar facilities.
The MFA offers a further embedding of skills and concepts learnt during its second year. In some countries, the MFA is more recognised, particularly if you are interested in teaching or research in a higher education environment.
