Studio Art & Design, M.F.A.

Program Overview

The University of Idaho's Studio Art & Design MFA program prepares aspiring artists and academics for professional careers. It offers an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to explore various disciplines and tailor their studies to their unique interests. Graduates are equipped for careers in art, design, academia, and other art-related fields, including museum management and curation. The program culminates in a thesis exhibition and written explanation of the student's creative journey.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Studio Art & Design, M.F.A.
program at the University of Idaho is designed for aspiring professional studio artists and artists seeking a career in academia. It emphasizes an integrated approach to art making and design that transcends traditional boundaries, allowing students to define their own path as studio artists.
• Objectives: The program aims to provide intensive studio training, enabling students to explore the intersections of various disciplines, including drawing, mixed media, sculpture, painting, printmaking, graphic design, interface and information design, and others across the university.
While students can specialize in an area or medium that aligns with their talents, the program offers flexibility to work across disciplines, fostering new perspectives and creative versatility.
• Program Description: Areas of concentration include painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, graphic design, printmaking, and interface design.
Students can also tailor their studies by combining two or more of these areas. M.F.A. students have access to private studio space in the art and design program's Graduate Art Studios (GAS House). The program culminates in a thesis featuring a solo exhibition of professional-quality work and a written explanation of the creative process, concepts, and theories behind the art.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Upon completion of the program, graduates may pursue careers as professional artists or designers, instructors of art or design at colleges or universities, managers/administrators of museums or galleries, art buyers or curators for corporations or collectors, and directors of nonprofit art organizations.