Program Overview

Overview of University Programs

The Stamps School of Art & Design at the University of Michigan offers a unique art and design education, focusing on research and creative practice as engines for cultural change and innovation.

Undergraduate Programs

• Overview: The undergraduate programs provide students with a comprehensive education in art and design.
• BFA: A Bachelor of Fine Arts degree that emphasizes studio practice and creative development.
• BA: A Bachelor of Arts degree that focuses on the liberal arts and sciences, with a concentration in art and design.
• Interarts Performance: A program that combines art, design, and performance to create innovative and interdisciplinary works.
• Dual Degrees: Students can pursue dual degrees in art and design, and another field of study.
• Minor in Art & Design: A minor program that allows students to explore art and design in addition to their primary field of study.
• Courses: A variety of courses are offered in art and design, including studio classes, lectures, and seminars.

Graduate Programs

• Overview: The graduate programs at Stamps School of Art & Design are designed to provide advanced education and training in art and design.
• MDes in Integrative Design: A Master of Design degree that focuses on integrative design and innovation.
• MFA in Art: A Master of Fine Arts degree that emphasizes advanced studio practice and creative development.
• Courses: Graduate-level courses are offered in art and design, including studio classes, lectures, and seminars.

Pre-College Programs

• Overview: The pre-college programs at Stamps School of Art & Design provide high school students with an opportunity to explore art and design.
• Spring Programs: Programs offered during the spring semester for high school students.
• Summer Programs: Programs offered during the summer for high school students.
• Fall Programs: Programs offered during the fall semester for high school students.
• Anytime: Online programs and courses available to high school students throughout the year.
• FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the pre-college programs.

Research and Creative Work

• Leading the Conversation: The Stamps School of Art & Design is committed to leading the conversation in art and design through research and creative work.
• View Our Work: Examples of faculty, graduate, and undergraduate student work are available for viewing.

Exhibitions and Events

• Explore Events: A variety of events are hosted by the Stamps School of Art & Design, including exhibitions, lectures, and performances.
• Penny Stamps Speaker Series: A series of lectures and talks by renowned artists, designers, and scholars.
• Stamps Gallery: A gallery space that showcases the work of faculty, graduate, and undergraduate students.
• Calendars: A calendar of events is available, including exhibitions, lectures, and performances.

MFA Directed Studio

Details

• Credit Hours: 6
• Semester: Winter 2026
• Graduate
• Description: The Directed Studio forms the core of the MFA program, where students engage in intense exploration and production of new, original creative work through studio inquiry, field experience, and research.
• Faculty advisors direct this independent studio work, and students are responsible for identifying, selecting, and confirming an advising commitment from faculty advisors.