At Marist Eastbay College of Art, our academic offerings are meticulously crafted to provide a transformative educational experience. We guide students on an intellectual journey that spans from foundational exploration in our High School to specialised mastery at the Undergraduate and Postgraduate levels. Our ethos is built upon the synergy of artistic creativity, technological innovation, and rigorous academic inquiry, preparing graduates to become thought leaders and pioneers in their respective fields.

Our Educational Philosophy: Interdisciplinary Innovation

The cornerstone of the Marist Eastbay academic experience is our philosophy of Interdisciplinary Innovation. We firmly believe that groundbreaking solutions and profound artistic expressions emerge from the convergence of diverse fields of knowledge. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to think across traditional disciplinary boundaries is paramount. Our curriculum actively encourages students to explore connections between art, design, science, and technology, fostering a holistic understanding and a versatile skill set. This approach not only enriches the learning process but also equips our students with the adaptability and integrative thinking skills necessary to thrive in dynamic, future-focused careers. We cultivate an environment where collaboration is natural, and where students learn to leverage diverse perspectives to solve complex problems and create works of significant impact and originality.

The High School Programme: Foundations for Future Innovators

Our High School programme at Marist Eastbay offers a unique and stimulating pre-university education designed for aspiring young creators and technologists aged 16-19. The curriculum provides a strong academic foundation in core subjects whilst allowing for specialised exploration in art, design, and introductory technology pathways. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art facilities typically found in higher education institutions.

The curriculum is specifically structured to ignite passion and build essential skills. Courses in visual arts, digital media, foundational design principles, and introductory programming are complemented by rigorous studies in humanities, sciences, and mathematics, ensuring a well-rounded education. The learning environment is dynamic and supportive, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills from an early age. Our High School diploma is internationally recognised, and with the support of NEASC accreditation, it provides a robust pathway to leading universities worldwide, including seamless progression to Marist Eastbay’s own undergraduate programmes for qualified students. We focus on preparing students not just for examinations, but for the intellectual demands and creative challenges of higher education and beyond.

Undergraduate Studies: Cultivating Expertise and Vision

Marist Eastbay’s undergraduate programmes are designed to transform passionate learners into skilled professionals and visionary thinkers. We offer a range of Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees that combine in-depth disciplinary knowledge with broad interdisciplinary perspectives. Our approach emphasises hands-on experience, critical inquiry, and creative problem-solving.

Signature programmes, such as the BA in Digital & Interactive Art, the BSc in Creative Technologies & Design Engineering, and the BA in Visual Communication & Media Innovation, exemplify our commitment to cutting-edge, relevant education. Students in Digital & Interactive Art delve into everything from interactive installations to virtual reality, mastering digital tools whilst engaging with critical theories of contemporary art. Creative Technologies & Design Engineering students bridge the gap between form and function, working on projects that might range from sustainable product design to robotic applications, integrating engineering precision with aesthetic sensibility. Visual Communication & Media Innovation students explore the evolving landscape of media, mastering graphic design, digital filmmaking, strategic branding, and transmedia storytelling.

Our learning methodologies are diverse and student-centred. Project-based learning is central, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and develop substantial portfolios. Studio work provides an immersive environment for practice and experimentation, guided by experienced faculty. Critical inquiry is fostered through seminars, discussions, and research assignments, encouraging students to engage deeply with concepts and develop their own intellectual positions.

Postgraduate Studies: Advancing Knowledge and Practice

For those seeking to deepen their expertise, pursue specialised research, or pivot their careers, Marist Eastbay offers a suite of challenging and rewarding Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc) programmes. Our postgraduate environment is characterised by intensive research, close mentorship from leading academics, and a vibrant community of scholars and advanced practitioners.

Programmes such as the MA in Digital & Interactive Art allow students to undertake significant research projects, perhaps developing new forms of digital expression or critically examining the societal impact of interactive technologies. The MSc in Creative Technologies & Design Engineering pushes students to the forefront of innovation, engaging in research on topics like artificial intelligence in design, advanced manufacturing, or bio-inspired robotics. The MA in Visual Communication & Media Innovation equips students with advanced theoretical frameworks and strategic skills to lead in areas such as global media strategy or digital ethics.

Research-led learning is paramount at the postgraduate level. Students are encouraged to develop their own research questions, methodologies, and to contribute original knowledge to their fields. Thesis and capstone projects are significant undertakings, demonstrating a student’s ability to conduct independent research, synthesise complex information, and produce work of publishable or exhibition quality. These programmes are designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in industry, academia, or for doctoral studies.

Faculty Excellence: Mentors and Scholars

Our faculty are the cornerstone of the Marist Eastbay academic experience. Comprising over 450 esteemed international academics, artists, designers, and technologists, they bring a wealth of professional experience and scholarly expertise to the classroom and studio. Many are practising professionals and active researchers, ensuring that our curriculum remains current and closely aligned with industry trends and cutting-edge discoveries. They are not only instructors but also mentors, dedicated to fostering the intellectual and creative growth of each student. Our faculty’s commitment to teaching excellence is matched by their significant contributions to their respective fields through publications, exhibitions, patents, and leading innovative projects.

Learning Resources and Facilities

Marist Eastbay provides an exceptional array of learning resources and state-of-the-art facilities to support our academic programmes. Our campus boasts over fifteen cutting-edge laboratories and studios, including digital fabrication labs (FabLabs), virtual and augmented reality suites, advanced robotics workshops, professional-grade film and photography studios, sound engineering booths, and dedicated spaces for traditional art practices. Our libraries offer extensive collections of physical and digital resources, including specialised journals, databases, and archives. These facilities are continuously updated to ensure our students have access to the tools and technologies shaping the future of art, design, and technology. Technical support staff are always on hand to assist students in maximising their use of these resources.

Global Learning Opportunities

In an increasingly globalised world, international experience is invaluable. Marist Eastbay actively promotes global learning through a variety of channels. We have established partnerships with over 75 partner universities worldwide, facilitating student and faculty exchange programmes that allow for rich cultural and academic immersion. These collaborations also extend to joint research projects and international workshops, broadening the horizons of our community. We encourage our students to participate in study-abroad semesters, international field trips, and global design competitions, fostering a cosmopolitan perspective and preparing them to operate effectively in diverse international contexts. These opportunities are integral to our mission of developing globally-minded citizens and professionals.