Program Overview

Georgia State University Graduate Programs

Overview

Georgia State University offers a range of graduate programs, including the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Photography. The program is designed to provide students with a critical and conceptual grounding as they independently pursue their studio practice.

Program Details

M.F.A. in Photography

The M.F.A. in Photography is a 72-semester hour program that provides students with a comprehensive education in photography. The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and is designed to prepare students for professional careers in photography.

• Admissions Requirements:
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose (one to two pages)
  • Artist statement (one page)
  • Portfolio (20 high-resolution jpeg images of recent work)
  • Unofficial transcript from all previous schools attended
  • Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Program Structure:
  • Professional Development (12 units)
  • Studio-Specific Courses (30 units)
  • Electives (6 units)
  • Art History (12 units)
  • Thesis (12 units)
• Total Units: 72

Program Highlights

• NASAD-accredited M.F.A. degree
• Range of funding opportunities, including scholarships and full funding for M.F.A. candidates
• Competitive Welch Fellowship providing monthly stipends and funding for the entire three-year program
• Internationally active faculty and rigorous curriculum
• Opportunities for graduate assistants to work as tutors, aid faculty members in research projects, and teach undergraduate courses

Goals and Outcomes

• Comprehensive exposure to various perspectives and faculty approaches
• Exploration of continuing traditions of art-making and pursuit of new forms
• Encouragement of multidisciplinary approaches with other studio areas
• Development of pedagogical skills and strategies through teaching assistantships
• Preparation for professional arts careers through development workshops and networking opportunities

Careers

The graduate program in Photography prepares students for competitive careers in contemporary art, art education, design, and art entrepreneurship. Career paths may include:

• Graphic, interior, and web designers
• Multimedia artists
• Curators and gallery directors
• Museum and non-profit arts managers
• Art administrators
• K-12 art teachers and art educators
• Art historians and writers
• Creative directors at advertising and marketing firms
• Props and set design fabricators
• Art appraisers

Description

The Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design features an internationally active faculty and a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for professional careers in art and design. The school offers a range of graduate programs, including the M.F.A. in Photography, which provides students with a critical and conceptual grounding as they independently pursue their studio practice.