Master of Fine Arts - Photography

The MFA program provides advanced practice and intensive study of the photographic medium. Core curriculum covers historical perspective, advanced theoretical and conceptual development in traditional, experimental and digital photography capture, post-production and output. The program culminates with a formal thesis project and complete body of work that supports the thesis and showcases each student's unique vision and talent.

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

MFA Thesis Project

• Produce an advanced-level thesis project within a digital or traditional specialization, demonstrating mastery and synthesis of the skills taught in the program
• Thesis Project Development
• Propose a solid concept suitable for refinement and development
• Select an appropriately challenging and feasible project
• Present a cohesive body of work
• Successfully articulate the end result of the project
• Demonstrate sufficient preparation for their project (research, problem solving)

Conceptual and Design Skills

• Make creative decisions that optimize conceptual impact, cohesiveness and personal style
• Integrate conceptual and technical elements of photography to convey a story, idea, or emotion
• Effectively deploy design elements within the composition and presentation of the imagery

Technical Skills

• Utilize effective lighting styles, techniques and equipment appropriate to art for commerce, photojournalism/documentary, or fine art applications, as determined by projects and professional focus
• Master exposure, lighting ratios, and post–production skills as appropriate to the project

Communication and Analysis

• Communicate ideas and proposals clearly, verbally and in writing, including defending work and choices made during capture, output and presentation
• Demonstrate professional behavior throughout the review process
• Critique their photographs with an understanding of technical, aesthetic, and historical context
• Build on feedback to improve their body of work

Professional Readiness

• Assemble a cohesive portfolio, which shows a unique personal view and style
• Produce and present professional quality materials
• Clearly articulate future plans and goals in the area of photographic specialty

*Note App Fee Waiver in effect for ApplyBoard to reduce the application fee to $50*