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, and who specialize in a particular field of research. Through the program coursework students will: demonstrate critical thinking about works of art; analyze scholarly methodology; synthesize knowledge by integrating history, formal analysis and contemporary scholarship into original scholarship; write critically about works of art; and present original scholarship. Students have a choice between thesis and comprehensive exam options. There is a foreign language requirement, which if not fulfilled prior to admission must be completed during the degree. The ability to pursue research in a foreign language may be necessary, depending on the specialization and availability of literature in the area of concentration. Opportunities for museum internships, student teaching, or curating exhibitions provides preparatory training for a variety of professions in the arts. 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, art auctions, appraising, art journalism, or arts management.

The Master of Arts with an emphasis in Studio Art develops critical understanding of art, aesthetics, cultural context, and studio practices. Through program coursework students will: demonstrate a broad based knowledge and skills in studio media, a specialization within an area of emphasis, and a succinct and original visual aesthetic; analyze, interpret, and criticize works of art from multiple perspectives; contextualize aesthetics to the canon of art history and contemporary art theory; document works of art professionally; disseminate research through exhibitions; and demonstrate knowledge of their discipline through written and verbal analysis. Opportunities for museum internships, student teaching, participating in exhibitions, or curating exhibitions provides preparatory training for a variety of professions in the arts.  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 teaching, 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 BA degree in Art History for students applying to the MA in Art with an emphasis in Art History or minimum upper-division requirements equivalent to UT Tyler’s BFA degree in Studio Art for students applying to the MA in Art with an emphasis in Studio Art.
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 (Letters of recommendation will be waived for graduates with a BA in Art or a BFA in Studio Art earned at UT Tyler)
8. Official transcripts
9. Completion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
10. Applicants for the emphasis in Studio Art must also submit the following:
    1. A portfolio of 20 individual images of recent artwork, from the past 1-3 years. 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.
    2. Artist Statement