Art M.A. with an Emphasis in Studio Art and Studio Art M.F.A. Coordinated Degree Program

(60 semester hours total)

The MFA in Studio Art provides the means for candidates to develop as contemporary visual artists. Through a conservatory approach, candidates acquire the skills necessary to create sophisticated aesthetic statements, master technical and formal interests, practice professional behaviors, and mature their understanding of form and content. Explorations in critical analysis, research methods, and contemporary theory are linked by extensive considerations of innovative problem solving. The MFA program provides the context in which students join elements into a holistic philosophical, aesthetic and practical knowledge of the discipline. 

Admission Requirements

Acceptance into the MFA program requires a positive recommendation by a faculty review committee, which meets at the time of the candidate’s MA thesis exhibition. The committee reviews the student’s progress upon the completion of 30 graduate hours taken within the MA in Art with an emphasis in Studio Art program. The committee will recommend the candidate continue with the Studio Art MFA coordinated degree program or finalize studies at the University with a completed MA degree.


Studio Art M.F.A. Coordinated Degree Program Requirements (30 semester hours)

Art History (6 hours)

Select two of the following:

ART 5342Medieval Art

ART 5343Graduate Studies in Greek and Roman Art

ART 5345Graduate Studies in Renaissance Art History

ART 5346Graduate Studies in Baroque and Rococo Art

ART 5347Graduate Studies in Nineteenth Century Art

ART 5348Graduate Studies in Art in America

ART 5349Graduate Studies in Twentieth-Century Art

ART 5390Selected Topics in Art

Studio Art Electives (15 hours)

Thesis/Exhibition (9 hours)

Additional Degree Completion Requirements

  1. Students must receive a grade of “B” or higher in all graduate level coursework.
  2. All students admitted into the program are required to undergo a Portfolio Review after the completion of 15 hours. Recommendations for actions will be at the discretion of the faculty. This review must be successfully completed before enrolling in additional hours. Students may be dismissed from the program if the faculty, upon Portfolio Review, deems the student’s progress not sufficient, or that the portfolio holds insufficient potential.