Master of Fine Arts in Art, San Francisco State University

24 Months

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About this course

The 60-unit Master of Fine Arts in Art program at SF State is designed to be completed in two years, focusing on developing professional competency for students aiming for careers as artists, including working in public roles. The program is interdisciplinary, allowing students to explore across various media or specialize within areas such as ceramics, digital media and emerging technology, painting and drawing, photography, printmaking, sculpture, or textiles. Students have access to graduate studio spaces on campus, including a communal space and medium-specific studios shared with peers. The program emphasizes both studio practice and academic development through seminars, critiques, and scholarly research, culminating in a thesis exhibition and report.

Why this course is highly recommended

The program boasts distinguished, professionally active faculty and offers students access to a range of facilities and vibrant opportunities like visiting artist lectures and local art community engagement. With a focus on developing independent, exploratory practices and supporting career growth through exhibitions, critiques, and teaching opportunities, this MFA provides a comprehensive environment to refine artistic skills and academic prowess.

Specialisation

Students in the MFA in Art program at SF State can focus their studio practice within traditionally defined areas such as ceramics, digital media and emerging technology, painting and drawing, photography, printmaking, sculpture, or textiles. The program is interdisciplinary, encouraging students to work across different media or hone their skills within a specific discipline.

Course fees

Application fees

10.94L

1st year tuition fees

10.94L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Graduates must complete 60 units, including a written thesis report and a thesis exhibition. The program includes coursework, seminars, critiques, and possibly teaching roles. Students need to demonstrate English proficiency through specific coursework, perform well in departmental reviews, and complete all university and departmental requirements to earn the degree. Transfer credits are considered on a course-by-course basis, with specific guidelines on the maximum transferable units and application procedures.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the San Francisco State University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

While not explicitly detailed, the program prepares students for careers as professional artists, capable of working across diverse media and in public roles. The program’s emphasis on individual practice, research, and exhibition offers a strong foundation for careers in the arts, including potential opportunities in galleries, museums, public art initiatives, and art education.

FAQs

What are the application requirements for the MFA program?

Applicants need an undergraduate art degree or equivalent, three units of recent contemporary art history, a GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 units, a creative work portfolio, a 500-1000 word artist statement, three recommendation letters, transcripts from all attended institutions, and TOEFL scores if applicable.

When is the application deadline?

Applications are accepted from October 1 to February 1 for admission the following fall semester.