Scott Cavanah,
Interim Chair

Gary Will,
Graduate Advisor and Coordinator

The graduate degree program in art was established in 1948. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Mission

The Mission of the graduate art program is the professional development of individual studio and scholarly abilities, exemplified by the production of a significant body of work. Students admitted to the program demonstrate the potential to engage existing dialogues in the visual arts and address developing technologies and discourses.

Two levels of graduate degrees are offered: a Master of Art in Studio (M.A.) and a terminal graduate degree, Master of Fine Art (M.F.A.), which designates the highest level of academic achievement in studio art. The purpose of these degrees is to prepare students for professional practice in the field of studio art. Through participation in the program, students gain knowledge and insight into historical and contemporary ideas and studio theory and practice.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for graduate degrees in art shall demonstrate a special ability for growth and conceptual development in their area of concentration.

Following are requirements for admission to the program:

1. Official transcript confirming an undergraduate degree with a major in art, design, or the equivalent, and in fulfillment of requirements of Graduate Education.
2. Digital images of a cohesive body of work (20 jpeg images at 72 ppi, 1020 pixels on longest side) representing: ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, or visual communication production work.
3. Three letters of recommendation.
4. A statement of one’s interests, abilities, and direction in art and/or design (250 words).
5. Personal interview with graduate or studio area co-coordinator (recommended).
6. Application deadlines are August 15 (for spring entrance) and January 15 (for fall entrance) to be assured full consideration.

In some cases, conditional acceptance is possible. Undergraduate study may be necessary where deficiencies exist. Students who hold a Master of Arts degree in Studio Art may be admitted to the M.F.A. program (see requirements below). For details, consult the department chair or graduate coordinator.

Degree Requirements

General Requirements

1. The following studio major concentrations are offered: drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and visual communication.
2. Students who have completed an approved 30 credit M.A. from an accredited institution may be admitted to the M.F.A. program.
3. Undergraduate study may be necessary where deficiencies exist. The graduate faculty will make a collaborative decision regarding courses that fulfill specific deficiencies for the student’s continuation in the program.
4. Each student is assigned a graduate advisory committee consisting of a major professor in the field and two additional graduate faculty members. The student must work closely with the Graduate Advisor and Coordinator to plan his or her program of study.
5. Students are eligible to advance to candidacy with an oral and visual presentation to the graduate faculty after completion of 10 hours.
6. It is recommended that full-time graduate students take two seminars within the 30-hour M.A.
7. Students must pass a written comprehensive examination and deliver an acceptable oral presentation.
8. Documentation of the student’s thesis exhibition and presentation shall be the responsibility of the student and will become the property of the University.