Art M.A.

There are two possible emphases for the MA in Art degree, an emphasis in Art History or Studio Art. Students must follow the admission requirements and degree requirements for their chosen emphasis. 

 The Master of Arts with an emphasis in Art History develops scholars and professionals who are knowledgeable about a wide range of art, from Ancient to Contemporary.  Students develop a deep understanding of historical context, formal and stylistic development, as well as the relevant aesthetic theories and scholarly methodologies that define the discipline.  Courses in art history teach students to speak and write clearly and creatively about art through the ages. The M.A. with an emphasis in Art History prepares scholars who plan to continue their graduate education, or who plan to pursue a career in teaching, museums, or arts management.

The Master of Arts with an emphasis in Studio Art develops critical understanding of art, aesthetics, cultural context, and studio practices.  Students will acquire broad based knowledge and skills in studio media (with emphasis on two-dimensional, three-dimensional or mixed-media); personal aesthetic; understanding of movements and concepts in art history; an ability to analyze formal issues and apply accurate terminology to that analysis; abilities to exhibit knowledge of art historical scholarship and methodology verbally and in written form; abilities to organize an exhibition of their art works. The M.A. with an emphasis in Studio Art prepares students to continue their graduate education, become professional studio artists, and prepares scholars who plan to pursue a career in community art education, galleries or museums, or arts management. 

Admission Requirements

Prerequisites and Admission Requirements for MA in Art

1. Minimum upper-division requirements equivalent to UT Tyler’s B.A. degree in Art History.
2. A minimum 3.0 grade-point average.
3. Completion of the appropriate applications for graduate admissions to the University.
4. A one-page typed statement of intent regarding the purpose and rationale for graduate study.
5. An original research paper showing competence in the use of the English language and with conducting research.
6. Curriculum Vita/resume
7. Three academic letters of recommendation
8. Official transcripts
9. Completion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
10. Applicants for the emphasis in Studio Art must also submit a Portfolio.  The portfolio should consist of 20 individual images on a CD. Digital submissions should be accompanied by a list containing the artist’s name, title, dimensions, media, and date of completion. Three-dimensional works may include multiple views/details.