The attached paper outlines a proposal from the School of Fine Art that the current taught MRes Creative Practices programme at Glasgow School of Art (GSA) be converted to a research degree. The proposed amendment has been approved by the Deputy Director (Academic) on behalf of GSA’s Executive Group.

The research degree will be delivered through a balance of independent studies and tutor or supervisor led elements. The proposed changes include increasing the time for independent research and for more in-depth study of the subject matter introduced in taught sessions, with the aim of enhancing students’ ability to develop their Masters projects into doctoral projects, should they so wish. To meet this aim, the programme has been restructured to allow for an additional pathway that leads directly to second year PhD studies in a 1+2 PhD model. Those wishing to exit with a Masters degree would still be able to do so.

Assessment and examination processes would be separated at Stage (Term) 3 so that the results of those exiting with a Masters degree would go through postgraduate examination boards as usual; for those selecting the 1+2 pathway, the Research Degrees sub-committee would be involved in examination and articulation to full PhD status. Students would be required to decide midway through Stage (Term) 2 as to which pathway they would undertake and would be supported, as appropriate, in making a formal decision by the Programme Leader.

ASC is asked to consider and approve the attached major programme amendment proposal which requests that the current taught MRes Creative Practices programme at GSA be converted to a research degree (with the same title), with effect from session 2017-18.

[For note:] The current MRes Creative Practices programme was scheduled for revalidation during 2016-17 as the programme previously reported to the now defunct Inter-School Board of Studies. Consideration and approval of programme revalidation is part of the Periodic Review process. The School of Fine Art is not scheduled to undergo Periodic Review until 2017-18 and so, in the interim, GSA has sought approval from this ASC (25/11/16), for the extension of validation of the MRes Creative Practices until session 2017-18. (See separate ASC paper ‘Request to Extend Validation – MRes Creative Practices).

GSA.

There are no resource implications for the University.

Subject to ASC approval, the current taught MRes Creative Practices programme at GSA will be converted to a research degree, with effect from session 2017-18.

There are no equality implications.