Program Overview
The Syracuse University Computer Art MFA program is a 60-credit, three-year program that emphasizes a wide range of practices in art media where the computer plays a primary role. Students develop professional practice in various contexts, including exhibitions, screenings, and installations, and work closely with faculty who encompass diverse conceptual, theoretical, and technical expertise. Graduates pursue careers in academia, independent work, and industry in fields such as computer graphics, animation, and interactive media.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) program in Computer Art at Syracuse University is a three-year, 60-credit research and development program situated in the context of technology. It emphasizes a wide range of practices in art media where the computer plays a primary role. These art media include computer-generated images, 3D computer animation, physical computing, creative computer programming, computer gaming, computer music, visual effects, multi-channel installation, and sonic art. Students are expected to develop professional practice in various contexts, including exhibitions, screenings, public interventions, installations, performances, workshops, gaming events, viral media, and other forms of public engagement. The program fosters a supportive, challenging, and highly critical environment where students work closely with three full-time computer art faculty, who encompass diverse conceptual, theoretical, and technical expertise. Students are encouraged to form relationships with faculty and peers from related disciplines in the Department of Film and Media Arts and establish interdisciplinary paths of study within Syracuse University, including women's studies, architecture, studio arts, and computer science.
Outline:
The Computer Art M.F.A. program requires 60 credits, including:
- Major Studio: 24 credits
- Studio Electives: 12 credits
- Art History or Related Academics: 12 credits
- Free Electives: 6 credits
- Graduate Seminar: 3 credits
- Final Presentation: 3 credits
Assessment:
The assessment of student work in the Computer Art M.F.A. program is based on a variety of factors, including:
- Artistic merit: originality, creativity, and technical proficiency
- Intellectual rigor: critical thinking, research, and conceptual development
- Professionalism: presentation, communication, and engagement with the broader art community
Teaching:
The Computer Art M.F.A. program's teaching methods combine theoretical and practical approaches to foster critical engagement with the field of computer art. Faculty members provide individual mentorship and guidance, critique student work, and facilitate discussions. Students also participate in workshops, seminars, and group critiques, which encourage collaboration and interdisciplinary exchange. The program's faculty includes:
- Rebecca Ruige Xu: Program Coordinator
- Jason Eppink
- Heath Hanlin
- Sarah Long
Careers:
Graduates of the Computer Art M.F.A. program pursue a broad range of career paths, including:
- Academia: Teaching and research in higher education institutions
- Independent Work: Establishing their own art studios or practices
- Industry: Working in the fields of computer graphics, animation, and interactive media