Master of Fine Arts in Art

Your artistic vision is becoming a reality with each work you produce, and you are prepared to solidify your place in the evolving art world. Our world-class faculty is eager to help. In a highly specialized atmosphere that offers the tools and support you need to grow, Penn State School of Visual Arts is the ideal place to explore your strengthening artistic voice.
The M.F.A. in Art offers concentrations in ceramics, drawing and painting, new media, photography, and sculpture. An M.F.A. in Art with a concentration in graphic design is jointly support by the Department of Graphic Design in the Stuckeman School and the School of Visual Arts.

Our program is recognized for emphasizing excellence in the study and production of visual art and cultural engagement. We embrace the reality that the art world has changed radically in recent years, and we strive to produce professional artists who are prepared to navigate those changes.

The School of Visual Arts requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits to earn the M.F.A. in Art. Of the 60 credits required for graduation, candidates are expected to complete 30 credits in a major area of concentration, 12 credits in art history and critical studies, 10 credits in related areas, and 8 credits in graduate seminar. No more than 10 credits may be transferred from other accredited graduate institutions.

Applicants apply for admission to the program via the Graduate School application for admission. Requirements listed here are in addition to Graduate Council policies listed under GCAC-300 Admissions Policies.

The Master of Fine Arts program in art, with its emphasis on professional study, is designed for the mature individual who by previous training and study has sufficiently prepared for the undertaking. It is strongly suggested that applicants have a minimum of 12 credits of art history at the undergraduate level. Any qualified student holding a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution may seek admission. The School of Visual Arts requires a minimum of 3.00 junior/senior grade-point average (on a 4.00 scale) for admission to the master of fine arts program. Exceptions to the minimum 3.00 average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, and interests, at the discretion of the program.

In addition to the previous requirements, all applicants must submit:

A portfolio of his/her work to illustrate his/her preparation for graduate study. A portfolio of digital images, rather than actual work, is required. A selection of no fewer than twenty examples should be presented. The majority should be in the area of the applicant's interest.
A statement of professional aims. This statement should include the applicant's intentions for his/her proposed study. Some indications of his/her philosophy, beliefs, and goals in regard to education and art should give evidence that he/she is prepared to undertake the work outlined for the Master of Fine Arts program.
Three letters of reference attesting to the applicant's scholarship and ability to work independently.
International applicants must take and submit scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), with the exceptions noted below. The minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based test, 213 for the computer-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the Internet-based test (iBT). Applicants with iBT speaking scores between 15 and 18 may be considered for provisaaional admission, enrollment, and, if necessary, remedial course work. The minimum composite score for the IELTS is 6.5. Revised TOEFL PBT July 2017 and later 60