| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-02-01 | - |
| 2024-10-01 | - |
Program Overview
The University of Mississippi's three-year, 60-credit-hour Master of Fine Arts in Art program prepares students for careers in teaching and professional artistry. The program emphasizes creative and technical skills development, art history and theory knowledge, and professional preparation. Graduates have pursued successful careers in teaching, art, and related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Fine Arts in Art (M.F.A.) program at the University of Mississippi is a three-year, 60-credit-hour terminal degree that prepares students for careers in teaching at the college level and as professional artists. The program's objectives are to:
- Develop students' creative and technical skills in their chosen studio emphasis (ceramics, painting, printmaking, or sculpture)
- Provide students with a broad understanding of art history and theory
- Prepare students for the professional challenges of teaching and working as an artist
Outline:
The M.F.A. program consists of the following coursework:
- 18 credit hours within the selected studio emphasis (ceramics, painting, printmaking, or sculpture)
- 18 credit hours outside of the selected studio emphasis
- 9 credit hours of electives
- 9 credit hours of art history, including AH 503: Art Theory and Criticism
- 6 credit hours of Thesis
Assessment:
Students in the M.F.A. program are reviewed by the faculty at the end of each semester during the first two years. After a successful fourth review, students are advanced into thesis candidacy. During the third year, candidates are reviewed three times per semester. In the last semester, students install a thesis exhibition and pass an oral examination pertaining to the thesis exhibition.
Teaching:
The M.F.A. program is taught by a faculty of experienced artists and educators. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, and students have the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art studios. The program also offers a variety of opportunities for students to teach, work in the gallery, and hold various graduate assistant positions.
Careers:
Graduates of the M.F.A. program go on to careers in teaching, art, and other related fields. The program's graduates have been successful in obtaining teaching positions at colleges and universities across the country. They have also gone on to successful careers as artists, gallery directors, and museum curators.
University of Mississippi
Overview:
The University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, is a public research university located in Oxford, Mississippi. It is a time-honored institution known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and rich tradition of success. Ole Miss offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering a strong sense of community and providing students with boundless opportunities.
Services Offered:
Academics:
Ole Miss offers over 90 majors leading to a bachelor's degree, as well as a variety of graduate programs. The university also provides a Freshman Studies program for undecided students.Admissions:
The university offers comprehensive admissions services for both undergraduate and graduate students, including campus visits, request information, and application processes.Student Life:
Ole Miss provides a diverse and engaging student life experience, including campus living, student involvement, support and resources, campus recreation, and international student support.Research:
As an R1 research institution, Ole Miss offers opportunities for students to engage in research with expert faculty across various fields.Athletics:
Ole Miss is known for its competitive athletics program, with teams competing at the highest level of college athletics.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Ole Miss boasts a vibrant student community with a vast array of extracurricular activities. Students can experience the renowned tailgating tradition in the Grove, explore the charming town of Oxford, and participate in various student organizations. The university also emphasizes community engagement and service opportunities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Ole Miss offers a high-quality education with a wide range of programs and expert faculty.Vibrant Campus Life:
The university provides a dynamic and engaging student experience with numerous opportunities for involvement and social interaction.Strong Community:
Ole Miss fosters a strong sense of community, both on campus and in the surrounding town of Oxford.Research Opportunities:
As an R1 research institution, Ole Miss offers students the chance to participate in cutting-edge research projects.Athletics Tradition:
Ole Miss is known for its competitive athletics program and passionate fan base.Academic Programs:
Undergraduate Programs:
Ole Miss offers over 90 majors leading to a bachelor's degree, including programs in the arts, sciences, humanities, business, engineering, and more.Graduate Programs:
The university offers a variety of graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees, in various fields.Special Programs:
Ole Miss provides special programs for undergraduates, such as study abroad opportunities and programs tailored to specific interests.Other:
Regional Campuses:
Ole Miss has regional campuses located in DeSoto, Tupelo, Booneville, Grenada, Rankin, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center.Alumni Network:
Ole Miss has a strong alumni network that provides support and opportunities for graduates.Community Engagement:
The university is actively involved in the Oxford community and surrounding areas, offering various programs and initiatives.Campus Culture and Traditions:
Ole Miss has a rich history and unique traditions, including the iconic Grove and the "Hotty Toddy" cheer.Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
Ole Miss is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community.Entry Requirements:
To apply to the Master of Fine Arts in Art program at the University of Mississippi, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Submit a complete Graduate School Application
- Pay the $50 application fee
- Submit official transcripts
- International applicants whose first language is not English may be required to submit scores from an acceptable English language proficiency test
- Submit the following supplemental materials to the Graduate Program Coordinator, Professor Durant Thompson (durant@olemiss.edu) with your last name and "MFA Applicant" in the subject line:
- Copy of an unofficial transcript
- A pdf document with your letter of intent including a brief introduction, your proposed area or areas of study, the semester and year you plan to begin the program, and your goals as a graduate student; artist’s statement; résumé; and three (3) references including name, phone, and email.
