M.F.A. in Art and Design

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at SIUE, international students should have completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This degree should be in a relevant field related to the chosen postgraduate program.

2. Academic Performance: Prospective postgraduate students should have a minimum academic score of 60% or its equivalent in their undergraduate studies. SIUE considers this as a baseline for eligibility.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is usually required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 120 or higher on the DET is often accepted as proof of English language proficiency.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum PTE score of 53 or higher.

Scholarships for International Students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE):

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SIUE offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. Some of these scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Global Ambassador Scholarship: SIUE's Center for International Programs awards the Global Ambassador Scholarship to a select number of undergraduate international students who have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange on campus.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at SIUE have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waivers. These assistantships may involve research, teaching, or administrative duties and are available in various academic departments.

4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office may provide guidance on finding and applying for such scholarships.

5. International Tuition Waivers: SIUE offers tuition waivers to international students who meet certain criteria. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students.

6. Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students can inquire about scholarships and funding opportunities specific to their academic departments or programs. Many departments offer financial support to exceptional graduate students.

7. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing research-based or teaching-focused programs may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition remission.

8. Fulbright Program: SIUE participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Students from eligible countries can apply for Fulbright scholarships.

9. Cultural Exchange Programs: SIUE may collaborate with cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships for international students. These programs aim to foster international understanding and cultural exchange.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can explore private scholarships offered by foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

Earning a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Art and Design from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) opens up a world of creative opportunities and diverse career paths. Graduates of this program are equipped with advanced skills, critical thinking abilities, and a strong artistic portfolio that can lead to rewarding careers in various sectors of the art and design industry.  

1. Professional Artist: Many M.F.A. graduates choose to pursue careers as professional artists. They create and exhibit their artwork in galleries, museums, art fairs, and online platforms. Graduates often produce a diverse body of work, showcasing their mastery of chosen mediums, techniques, and artistic concepts.

2. Art Educator: With their advanced degrees and artistic expertise, M.F.A. graduates are well-suited for roles as art educators. They can teach art at various levels, from K-12 schools to colleges and universities. Art educators inspire and guide the next generation of artists, fostering creativity and critical thinking.

3. Curator or Gallery Director: Graduates with a deep understanding of art history, aesthetics, and curatorial practices may find fulfilling careers as curators or gallery directors. They select and organize art exhibitions, manage gallery spaces, and work closely with artists to bring their visions to life.

4. Design Professional: Some M.F.A. graduates specialize in design disciplines such as graphic design, industrial design, or interior design. They work in industries like advertising, marketing, technology, and fashion, using their artistic sensibilities to create visually appealing and functional designs.

5. Art Director: Art directors play a pivotal role in various creative industries, including advertising agencies, publishing houses, and multimedia companies. They oversee the visual aspects of projects, ensuring they align with artistic and brand visions.

6. Freelance Artist or Consultant: Freelancing allows M.F.A. graduates to maintain independence while pursuing diverse creative projects. They may work on commissioned art pieces, collaborate with businesses, or provide artistic consulting services.

7. Art Therapy: Some graduates choose to combine their artistic talents with therapeutic practices, becoming art therapists. They work with individuals facing emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges, using art as a means of expression and healing.

8. Art Critic or Writer: For those with a passion for art theory and critique, careers as art critics, journalists, or writers are viable options. They analyze and write about art, contributing to publications, blogs, and art-focused media outlets.

9. Entrepreneur: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may establish their own art-related businesses, such as art studios, galleries, or online marketplaces. They curate and sell artwork, organize exhibitions, or offer art-related services.

10. Multimedia Artist: In today's digital age, multimedia artists are in demand. They create digital art, animations, and interactive media, often working in the fields of gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality.

11. Public Art and Community Engagement: Some artists choose to create public art installations or engage in community-based projects. These initiatives contribute to community development, cultural enrichment, and social impact.