Art
Our graduate programs in studio art, offered through the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University, are based on rigorous curricula that integrate practical and critical skills across diverse mediums and disciplines. Here you'll hone your practice through individual innovation, creative collaborations, mentorships, and academic discourse as you prepare for a career as a professional artist.
We offer a two-year Master of Fine Arts program and a one-year Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Studio Art.
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Degree Offerings
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Faculty
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Application Requirements
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Contact SMFA at Tufts
Questions about your application?
Contact us:
Office of Graduate Admissions
Bendetson Hall
Medford, MA 02155
(617) 627-3395
gradadmissions@tufts.edu
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
Our M.F.A. program emphasizes intensive studio practice, creative collaboration, formal and informal mentorships, and rigorous academic discourse through a research-based studio curriculum. During the two-year program, you'll join a vibrant and supportive community committed to making art that shapes our global society and collective future.
Graduate studio courses are taught at SMFA's Mission Hill Building, 160 St. Alphonsus Street, where you'll also have a semi-private studio space.
Learn more about the Master of Fine Arts
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Studio Art
The post-baccalaureate certificate is a one-year program that offers intensive studio art study and practice, closely advised and supported by SMFA faculty. The program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree and want to immerse themselves in rigorous studio art-making. Whether you are a recent graduate or are changing careers, the post-baccalaureate certificate provides excellent preparation for graduate study in art or for professional practice as an artist.
Learn more about the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Studio Art
Related Programs
Our faculty are successful working artists and seasoned educators with expertise and experience in a wide range of mediums and disciplines. Through their teaching and mentorship, they guide graduate students in developing their unique artistic practices within and across mediums.
Master of Fine Arts Program Directors
Jeannie Simms, Director, Master of Fine Arts Program
Lisa Bynoe, Associate Dean of Graduate Programs
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Director
Karmimadeebora McMillan, Interim Program Director
Application Deadline
M.F.A.: The application deadline for fall enrollment is January 15. Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a space available basis.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate: Applications for fall enrollment will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning January 15th. Applications will not be accepted after June 1, for international applicants, and August 1 for domestic applicants.
*Applicants are encouraged to submit all required materials well in advance of the deadline, to ensure ample time for both admissions consideration and financial assistance.
Prerequisites
- All applicants must hold an undergraduate degree, such as a B.A. or B.F.A., from an accredited institution of higher education.
- All applicants must submit a portfolio that demonstrates artistic maturity and readiness for their studies.
Application Requirements
In addition to the general application requirements, the programs require the following supplemental information:
Portfolio
Students must submit 10-15, pieces of their recent work and/or up to 10 minutes of time-based work. It's important to make sure that the work represents your strengths and interests, and represent your current skills and experiences.
Portfolios must be submitted online through Slideroom. Like the online application, you will need to create a user account. Once this is created, you will be able to view all of your portfolio submissions in one location.
This is a quick drag and drop process, which allows you to submit images, video, audio, models, and more. It will also allow you to embed media from other sites, like Vimeo, YouTube, Soundcloud, and Dropbox.
Resume/CV
Applicants must submit a resume that chronologically outlines your background in the arts. This should include exhibitions and awards, as well as professional experiences and related activities, such as research.
Personal Essay
The personal essay should not exceed three pages and should address the following questions:
- Tell us about your most recent/current art work.
- What would you identify as important artistic and intellectual influences on your art work? In addition to artists, this might also include writers, scientists, theorists, and other cultural producers.
- In what ways do you hope to expand and further your art practice at SMFA at Tufts?
Letters of Recommendation
M.F.A.: Three letters of recommendation are required.
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate: Two letters of recommendation are required.
Standardized Test Scores: Not Required
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) general test is not required for either the M.F.A. program or the Post-Bac Certificate.
International Students
A minimum TOEFL score of 85 (iBT) or IELTS score of 6.5 is required for admission.
For questions about graduate programs, please contact Lennon Wolcott, Assistant Director of Admissions, SMFA at Tufts.
School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University
230 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-627-0069