Master of Arts (Studio)

The mission of the art and design M.A. program at Eastern Michigan University is to provide a stimulating environment for the concentrated post-undergraduate study of art and design through research and creative expression.

The M. A. curriculum encourages experimentation, intellectual and creative risk taking and critical thinking through studio work and seminar courses. Students are expected to develop focus and self-direction in creative work and research. Cross-disciplinary and interdisciplinary work is encouraged. M.A. coursework includes seminars in history and theory. M. A. work also engages students in the understanding of diverse cultural influences on art, the role of the artist in society, and the relationships between studio practices and art, and design history and theory. The M.A. degree in studio art culminates in a group exhibition.

The Master of Arts in studio art requires a minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree. It also allows for part-time enrollment. Students without undergraduate majors in art must complete approximately 30 credit hours of undergraduate course work in art through consultation with the graduate coordinator before admission to the graduate program.

Graduate student artwork can be viewed in the artwork gallery on this site. In addition the EMU Artists Collection is a public image database of thesis artwork by degree conferred graduate students.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

An undergraduate degree with a major in art or approximately 30 credit hours of undergraduate course work in art through an accredited institution is required for admission, with a minimum grade point average of 2.8 in art classes. Criteria considered in admissions process in order of importance; quality of art work as evidenced in slides, transcript, and statement. A student may be required, after review by the M.A. committee, to make up deficiencies at the undergraduate level.

Applications to the MA programs are evaluated by the department on an ongoing basis- the committee meets three times per semester (Fall and Winter) to review materials. Appropriate application materials are due to the department by the second Friday of any of the first three months of the Fall or Winter semesters (each of these deadlines corresponds to each of the three reviews by the MA committee).

In addition to materials for the department, appropriate materials are due to the Graduate School by the deadlines they establish, posted independently of the department on the Graduate Admissions Homepage.