Graduate Programs

Master of Fine Arts in Contemporary Art Practice

Dedicated to helping students understand and explore the ways that artists and their work function within a larger social context, the Department of Art offers a two-year degree program leading to the Master of Fine Arts, Contemporary Art Practice, with an emphasis in either Studio Practice or Social Practice. Studio Practice students engage in independent research and production, combining disciplines or concentrating on a single discipline, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital or time-based media. Social Practice students work beyond the studio, engaging the public in projects that seek to transcend traditional boundaries between artist and audience.

In addition to a core of directed study with designated faculty, the program offers a foundation in theory through interdisciplinary seminars in contemporary art history and current issues and opportunities for critical dialogue through group critiques and a dynamic weekly visiting artist program. Additional seminars in professional practices and pedagogy, as well as the availability of teaching assistantships, help prepare students for careers in the arts. Enjoying strong ties with the larger community, the program allows students to pursue investigations at the forefront of contemporary art practice.

Program blogs/websites:

www.PSUMFANEWS.blogspot.com

http://socialpractices.blogspot.com

social practice website

MFA open course ware website

Art Education

The Department of Art works in liaison with the School of Education to provide the fifth year teacher education program to prepare candidates for teaching art in grades K-12.