Master of Fine Arts in Historic Preservation

Mississippi State University's Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Historic Preservation will culminate in a terminal degree, one of the few degrees of its kind in the United States. The MFA degree in Historic Preservation focuses on historic preservation combined with preservation field studies. Upon successful completion of the degree program, students will possess the skills necessary to educate diverse populations and promote historic preservation while employed with non-profit organizations, government agencies, cities, museums, private-sector firms, and in academia. Graduates will

be equipped to perform in historic preservation occupations with non-profit organizations, government agencies, community development, urban development, museums, private-sector firms, and in academia.
be proficient in areas of design, technology, economics, law, planning, and curating as it pertains to historic preservation.
have the skills necessary to convey effective leadership, management, and communication practices.
have a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of historic preservation as it pertains to history and theory of the designed environment, history and theory of preservation, documentation and recording techniques, practical field application, application-based projects, practicum and communication skills, and an area of concentration in a preservation related field.

Applicant's must have a bachelor's degree from a fully accredited four year educational institution, and earned a minimum GPA of 3.00 (based on a 4.00 system). They must submit an application form, a statement of purpose, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
Applicants must request an official transcript from the bachelor's degree granting institution and from each college or university attended following the bachelor's degree. If fewer than 60-70 hours were completed at the institution which awarded the bachelor's degree, official transcripts from previous institution(s) are required as well. The program may require previous transcripts to verify prerequisites. The official transcript must be in a sealed envelope bearing the institution's return address with the Registrar's signature or stamp across the flap. The Graduate School will accept electronic transcripts directly from Parchment or National Clearinghouse. Electronic transcripts sent by Parchment or National Clearinghouse should be sent to Mississippi State University, Graduate School. Verification and evaluation of international transcripts and transcript translations received directly from World Education Services (WES) will be considered official.
The Graduate School will accept electronic transcripts directly from Escrip. Electronic transcripts sent by Escrip should be sent to Mississippi State University, Graduate School.
A minimum TOEFL score of 79 iBT or IELTS score of 6.5 for admission
Considered proficient in English. Applicant is not required to enroll in an ESL course unless his/her academic program requires a higher test score.
Eligible for admission for any term and a graduate assistantship
An international applicant for Unclassified graduate status (non-degree-seeking) who is not from a country where English is the first language or who does not hold a baccalaureate or higher degree from a college or university where English is the first language must submit an appropriate TOEFL or IELTS score.