Department of Art and Design

Art - Fine Arts (MFA)

Telephone: (302) 831-2244
http://www.art.udel.edu/graduate/master-of-fine-arts
Faculty Listing: https://www.art.udel.edu/people/faculty

Program Overview

The focus of our graduate program is to work with students in developing a solid and sustainable studio practice. We accept students with the understanding that they are committed to building a studio practice and working towards achieving their personal visions. Our graduate faculty believes that success in the highly competitive field of art is dependent on the strength of the artwork and the artist’s active participation in local and global discussions about the ideas surrounding creative activity. We strive to foster a high level of discussion regarding what constitutes a powerful artistic practice and product.

The MFA curriculum consists of three distinct yet interrelated parts of the graduate experience and education: research, practice, and discourse. Students are asked to sustain a dedicated studio practice that pushes and challenges their interests and come together for critique that encourages the open exchange of ideas in a collaborative environment. Additionally, students are asked to take an academic course outside of the department in order to expand their creative research.

As a studio program the structure determined by the graduate faculty is oriented toward extensive personal time in the studio, supported by one-on-one discussions with faculty and visiting artists.

Requirements for Admission

Applicants must complete the online application including transcripts, resumé, three letters of recommendation, and a portfolio of images submitted as one PDF through the Graduate College. Once you have submitted your application you will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours which will include your student identification number (UD ID).

Portfolios must include up to twenty still images and, if submitting video, no more than 5-10 minutes total. Video samples should be included as an active internet link within the PDF. Please include titles, dates, dimensions, and a brief description of work submitted on the PDF.

The department’s priority deadline to be considered for funding is January 15.

The Department of Art and Design does not require GRE scores.

Financial Aid

The University of Delaware offers generous financial aid assistance to our graduate students. The Department of Art and Design awards several merit-based Graduate Teaching or Research Assistantships (tuition waiver plus a stipend in exchange for teaching and/or service) and tuition semesters (tuition waiver). The department works diligently to support our MFA students and has, historically, been able to fund at least half of our students. Please refer to Graduate Admissions at UD for more information.

Programs

• Fine Arts (MFA)