Graduate Program
The MFA Program at the University of Kansas
The MFA program is Interdisciplinary in its approach and grads work with all faculty in the program among our seven studio areas; Ceramics, Expanded Media, Metalsmithing and Jewelry, Painting and Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture, Textiles and Fibers.
The MFA program is designed to take three years. Graduate Students spend their first two years taking an interdisciplinary graduate seminar comprised of first and second year grad students, and take electives in the Department of Visual Art and University. They also work independently with faculty in their chosen discipline and within the Department of Visual Art, Spencer Museum of Art, and Affiliated Faculty. After the successful completion of two reviews (first and second year), third year students spend their entire third year on their thesis work.
Students in the MFA program receive generous private/semi-private studios appropriate to their work for the entire duration of the program. In addition to their individual studios, Graduate Students have access to the entire Department of Visual Art facility including equipment, tools, staff resources, workspaces, computer production labs, and shops. Graduate Students also have access to the resources of a major research university including libraries, the Spencer Museum of Art, the Biodiversity Institute, and various research labs.
M.F.A
Strong Artist Community
Faculty in the program exhibit their work all over the world, and are present in important collections around the world. Students are also supported by a strong Artist-in-Residence, Visiting Artist, and Visiting Critic program. These contacts go on to become peers and resources long after graduation.
Faculty, Artist-in-Residence, Visiting Artists
Visual Art Facilities
Students in the MFA program receive generous private/semi-private studios appropriate to their work for the entire duration of the program. In addition to their individual studios, Graduate students have access to a diverse ecosystem of facilities and equipment, ranging from traditional tools to emerging technologies.
University Resources
Graduate Students have access to the resources of a major research university including libraries, the Spencer Museum of Art,
the Biodiversity Institute, and various research labs.
University Resources
Community Resources
Lawrence is a diverse and progressive city that still maintains the charm of a smaller community with a picturesque downtown, a thriving art scene and beautiful neighborhoods. Just 45 minutes away is Kansas City which offers all the resources of a major metropolitan area.
Graduate Student Kirsten Taylor helps a student in her Intro to Ceramics class.
Graduate Student Jenny Welden gives a dying demonstration to her Fundamentals of Fibers class.
Graduate Student Sarah Pickett works in the Printmaking Studio.