MFA in Art

Our three-year MFA program places emphasis on the conceptual and material understanding of creative practice and also on the significance of visual art within the broader social and historical contexts in which it is made. Coursework is designed to balance studio time with critical inquiry that takes advantage of the research university environment.

Our program places major emphasis on creative artistic work of high quality. We promote not only the conceptual and technical education of the professional artist in artistic practice, encouraging critical inquiry, excellence, and an understanding of the history of art, but also an experimental approach toward each media. Learn more about our four areas of study in art.

Check your progress with the Art MFA Degree Requirements worksheet.  

Information Sessions listed on our How to Apply Page. 

Location

The Twin Cities metropolitan area boasts one of the most vibrant and diverse arts communities in the US. Internationally renowned institutions such as the Weisman Art Museum, Walker Art Center, and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts as well as numerous local galleries provide inspiration, resources, and exhibition opportunities.

Opportunities

Graduate students are eligible for research funds that support national and international travel. The department has numerous international partnerships and residency programs with peer institutions abroad and is continually expanding these connections.

Studio Space and Facilities

MFA students are provided with studio spaces in Regis Center for Art with generous workspaces, natural light, and access to departmental facilities The Regis Center houses state-of-the-art facilities in sculpture, foundry, ceramics, digital fabrication, imaging and editing, printmaking, drawing, and painting studios, photography labs, and digital moving image studios. Online Virtual Tour.