Studio Art (MFA)

Program Description

The MFA in Studio Art is a two year full-time interdisciplinary program. Classes include: group critique, seminar in contemporary art, writing for artists, and critical theory. In addition, MFA students have one full day a week of individual studio meetings with visiting artists and faculty. 

Our Full and Part time faculty includes writers, art critics, and visual artists who work in all media. Visiting artists, and guests at our roundtable discussions, enhance the program’s connection to the greater art world. 

The MFA studios and art department facilities are all located in one building, on Stuyvesant Street in the East Village. The private studios are accessible 24/7, and available over winter and summer break. The Art department facilities include: a wood and metal shop, printmaking, photography, ceramics, and digital labs. 

During their time at NYU, MFA students will exhibit their work at the Art Department’s Gallery. This includes a First year group show, a solo project, and a final thesis show. There is also an Open Studio Event once a year, which is open to the public.

Teaching

All MFAs are given the opportunity to work as a course assistant during their first year. In their second year they are hired to teach an introductory level studio art course for NYU.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MFA program are represented by galleries, featured in contemporary museums and biennials, and recipients of prestigious fellowships and artist residencies. Many hold positions as critics, teachers, designers, and curators.

Accreditation (NASAD)

Admissions

Admission to graduate programs in the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development requires the following minimum components:

• Résumé/CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Transcripts
• Proficiency in English

See NYU Steinhardt's Graduate Admissions website for additional information on school-wide admission. Some programs may require additional components for admissions.

See How to Apply for admission requirements and instructions specific to this program.

Program Requirements

Sample Plan of Study

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

1. Synthesize critique and intellectual reflection into individual artistic production culminating in a thesis exhibition of contemporary and critical relevance.
2. Demonstrate critical thinking as it applies to the conceptual and aesthetic foundation of individual studio practice.
3. Analyze and examine the process of artistic production through guidance and critique with faculty, visiting artists, curators and critics.
4. Communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing the link between theory and individual artistic practice with specific attention to historical and cultural contexts.

Policies

NYU Policies

University-wide policies can be found on the New York University Policy pages.

Steinhardt Academic Policies

Additional academic policies can be found the Steinhardt academic policies page.