Research that redefines parameters and confronts contemporary issues is encouraged. Unique abilities and potential are developed in a community of students and faculty engaged in intensive discussion, investigation, and production of challenging new work. Critical interactions with resident faculty, visiting artists, designers and critics form the core of graduate level involvement. M.F.A. students each work with three graduate faculty who serve on their Thesis Advisory Committee.  Individually and collectively, the members of this committee are responsible for critical analysis of the student’s progress. The degree culminates in an M.F.A. thesis exhibition or alternative public presentation, a written thesis research paper, and an oral defense.

Other requirements include seminars, courses in critical theory, art history and academic electives. The program is rigorous, requiring a serious work ethic and the ability to chart a course of personal development.