Master of Fine Arts Details
The MFA graduate program at Kendall emphasizes artists as creative, productive citizens of the world—critical thinkers and technical masters of painting, drawing, photography, or printmaking. We focus on increasing artists' potential by encouraging them to explore, to experiment, and to integrate classical art practices with new technology.
We believe that balancing studio activity, theoretical knowledge, and an awareness of art history can provide students with enormous benefits in the professional world. To that end, our MFA candidates focus on achieving five major objectives:- To develop a cohesive body of work. The MFA curriculum maximizes studio time, allowing ample opportunity to develop ideas, themes, and motifs of personal significance. While we reinforce formal and technical skills, we place an equally high value on critical thinking and experimenting with new processes and modes of expression.
- To understand the philosophical foundation of the arts and of the conditions and expectations of the field. Our advanced level seminars focus on contemporary theory, teaching, and the business of art. These courses sharpen the student's critical and analytical abilities, and the writing and presentation skills they need for careers in art criticism, teaching, lecturing, grant writing, and so on.
- To understand the advanced issues in art history. A solid foundation in art history provides a vital underpinning to studio and seminar work. We offer a variety of Art History electives.
- To prepare to teach art. By combining a review of contemporary teaching texts with group discussions regarding current issues in education, Kendall provides a uniquely structured approach to educating students about the issues associated with teaching. Students receive hands-on training in writing syllabi and creating class projects; they review basic foundational information; they go on classroom visits; and they learn techniques for teaching art in their area of emphasis. Kendall's MFA graduates leave the program prepared to teach at any level, including college.
- To prepare for a career in an art-related field. For those students who plan to develop careers outside of teaching, Kendall offers a variety of studio electives to build their experience and exposure.
Master of Fine Arts credit requirements Studio focus 18, Graduate seminar 9, Art History seminar 9, Thesis focus 15, Studio Electives 9
Application Deadline Dates
- Fall semester – February 15, June 1 for late consideration
- Spring semester – November 1
