Studio Art [MFA]

Program Overview

Eastern Michigan University's MFA program fosters creativity and research through studio work, seminars, and cognate courses. Students develop original works, engage in critical discussions, and explore diverse cultural influences on art. The program culminates in an exhibition and optional thesis, preparing graduates for professional success in the art field and beyond.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MFA program at Eastern Michigan University aims to provide a robust and comprehensive environment that fosters creative work and research, preparing students for professional success. The curriculum encourages experimentation, intellectual risk-taking, and critical thinking through various mediums: studio work, seminars, and cognate courses. Students are expected to produce original works that extend knowledge and contribute to the field, with cross- and interdisciplinary work being highly encouraged. MFA coursework includes seminars in history and theory, highlighting the impact of diverse cultural influences on art, the role of artists in society, and the relationship between studio practices and art and design history and theory. The faculty involved in the program maintain a high level of teaching excellence and actively engage in research and creative work. The MFA degree is a full-time, 60-hour program culminating in an exhibition and an optional written thesis.

Outline:

• Studio Work:
The core of the MFA program, studio work provides a platform for students to develop their artistic skills, experiment with various techniques and media, and produce a body of original work that reflects their unique artistic vision.
• Seminars:
Seminars play a crucial role in the program, offering students the opportunity to engage in critical discussions, exchange ideas, and explore theoretical frameworks related to art and design. These seminars cover a diverse range of topics, including history, theory, criticism, and contemporary art practices.
• Cognate Courses:
Cognate courses allow students to expand their knowledge and perspectives by taking courses outside their primary discipline. These courses can be chosen from various academic departments, such as art history, philosophy, literature, or cultural studies, and can complement and enrich students' studio work and research.
• Thesis/Exhibition:
The culmination of the MFA program, the thesis/exhibition is a major undertaking that requires students to synthesize their artistic research and creative practice. The thesis involves producing a written document that explores the theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of the student's work, while the exhibition showcases the student's artistic production and demonstrates their technical proficiency and creative vision.

Assessment:

The MFA program employs various assessment methods to evaluate students' progress and achievement. These methods include:

• Critiques:
Regular critiques are conducted throughout the program, providing students with constructive feedback on their work from their peers, instructors, and visiting artists. Critiques foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can share their ideas, receive constructive criticism, and refine their artistic practice.
• Mid-Program Review:
At the end of the first year, a formal review is conducted to assess each student's progress and determine whether they will be allowed to continue in the program. This review involves a comprehensive evaluation of the student's work, including their studio practice, seminar participation, and overall academic performance.
• Thesis/Exhibition Defense:
The thesis/exhibition defense is a final assessment that requires students to present their work to a panel of faculty and external examiners. The defense involves a public presentation and a critical examination of the student's thesis and exhibition. Students must successfully defend their work to complete the MFA program.

Teaching:

The MFA program at Eastern Michigan University is taught by a dedicated team of experienced and accomplished faculty members who are actively involved in their respective fields. The faculty bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and diverse perspectives to the program, creating a stimulating and supportive learning environment for students. The teaching methods employed in the program prioritize individualized instruction, hands-on learning, and collaborative exchange. Students receive personalized guidance and support from their instructors, fostering a close mentorship relationship that helps them develop their artistic skills, refine their ideas, and achieve their creative goals.

Careers:

The MFA program prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in the art field and beyond. Graduates pursue careers as professional artists, educators, curators, gallery directors, art administrators, and researchers. The program also provides a strong foundation for students who wish to continue their education in doctoral programs in art and related fields.