M.F.A. in Visual Art
Program Overview
Introduction to the M.F.A. in Visual Art Program
The M.F.A. in Visual Art program at Herron School of Art + Design is an interdisciplinary program that encourages students to take creative risks and incorporate thinking, making, experimentation, and research into their evolving artistic vision. The program is designed for students who are ready for intensive, high-level study that will push the boundaries of their conceptual and theoretical knowledge of art.
Application Components
To apply to the program, students must submit the following components:
- Online application: Students must visit the IU Indianapolis online graduate application and enable pop-ups and third-party cookies for the application to function properly.
- In the 'Academic Plan' section, students may select a preferred studio area to focus on under 'Concentration.'
- Recommendations: Students must provide contact details of three recommenders, who will submit letters of recommendation through the online application system.
- Personal statement and résumé: Students must submit a 500- to 750-word personal statement outlining their reasons for applying to the program, as well as a concise overview of their previous experiences and future career goals.
- Official transcripts: Official transcripts from each institution attended must be sent to Herron's Office of Admissions and Student Services, demonstrating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and completion of a bachelor's degree.
- For international students, if the original documents are not in English, a verified translation must be sent with the official transcripts.
- Portfolio: Students must submit 15-20 images online, which may include images, video, animation, or other time-based media.
- Proof of English proficiency for international applicants: International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores, with minimum scores of 79 or higher on the internet-based TOEFL test or 6.5 or higher on the IELTS test.
Prerequisites
Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree with a major in fine arts studio courses or a B.A. in another field that includes significant coursework in studio art.
Interview
As the final step in the application process, semi-finalists will be contacted for an interview, during which candidates should be prepared to discuss their portfolio.
Application Fees
The application fees include:
- IU Indianapolis online graduate application fee: $70 for all applicants
- Herron SlideRoom portfolio fee: $10 (non-refundable; cannot be waived)
Application Deadlines
The application deadlines are:
- January 15: Deadline to submit the completed online application for funding consideration
- January 22: Deadline to submit all supplemental materials for funding consideration
- April 1: Deadline to submit the completed online application
- April 8: Deadline to submit all supplemental materials
Program Details
The M.F.A. in Visual Art program is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary program that provides students with the opportunity to explore their artistic vision and develop their skills in a supportive and stimulating environment. The program is designed to push the boundaries of students' conceptual and theoretical knowledge of art, and to prepare them for a successful career in the art world.
