Visual Arts
The MFA Curriculum

MFA Degree Course Outline

The following curriculum is an example for a two year model of completing the MFA degree. In that students progress at their own rate, it is possible to extend their study an extra semester requiring less hours per semester. It is critical for both the student and major advisor to be in consultative agreement regarding appropriate credit load.

First Year Schedule

First Semester

ART 805 Visual Arts Seminar I 3
ART 850 Studio (Major Area) 3-6
ART 851 Studio (Second Area) 3
AAH 630 20th Century Art History I 3
Total credits   12-15

Second Semester

ART 806 Visual Arts Seminar II 3
ART 851* Studio (Second Area) 3
ART 870 Studio (Major Area) 6
AAH 632 20th Century Art History II 3
Total credits   15

* AdvancedStudio Options- ART 605 Drawing, ART607 Painting, ART 609Sculpture, ART 611 Printmaking, ART 613 Photography, ART 617 Ceramics.

Second Year Schedule

In the second year the primary focus is on the creation of thesis work and manuscript. Upon completion of 30 credit hours the student, if ready, is encouraged to present work for the 30-hour review. This is a presentation of proposed thesis work, its concept, its basis, and medium in which it will be accomplished. Upon successful completion of this review, the student will be allowed to sign up for Art 890 thesis hours. An initial three hours is taken to start work on the written manuscript, which is usually followed, in the last semester with 12 hours of ART 890 for a total of 15 thesis hours. Three additional credits of Art History are also required during this second year. This is usually taken as a directed studies course (AAH 611) within the student's specific discipline.

Third Semester

ART 871 Studio (Major Area) 3 (3-6 total)
ART 880 Studio (Major Area) 3 (3-15 total)
ART 891 Thesis 3
AAH 611 Directed Studies 3
Total credits   12-15

Fourth Semester

ART 891 Thesis 12
ART 880 Studio (Major Area) 3 (3-15 total)
Total credits   15