M.F.A. in Craft/Material Studies

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 80

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • A completed bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. This is typically around 65% or higher, depending on the grading system of the institution.
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 120.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 65.

Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

1. Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.

2. International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.

3. VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.

4. VCU School of Business Scholarships: The School of Business at VCU offers scholarships for international graduate students pursuing business-related programs. These scholarships aim to support students who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership qualities.

5. VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.

6. VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.

7. VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.

9. External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.

10. Graduate Assistantships: While not traditional scholarships, graduate assistantships at VCU provide international graduate students with opportunities for financial support. These positions may include teaching, research, or administrative roles and often come with stipends and tuition waivers.

It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Craft/Material Studies program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a unique and enriching experience for artists interested in exploring the creative possibilities of materials and craftsmanship. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a wide range of exciting and rewarding career paths within the fields of craft, fine arts, and beyond.

1. Studio Artist: Many graduates of the M.F.A. in Craft/Material Studies program choose to pursue careers as studio artists. They create original works of art using various materials, techniques, and concepts. These artists exhibit their work in galleries, museums, and art shows, establishing their presence in the contemporary art world.

2. Art Educator: A significant number of alumni become art educators, sharing their knowledge and passion for craft and material studies with students at various educational levels. They may teach in K-12 schools, colleges, universities, or art institutes, inspiring the next generation of artists.

3. Gallery Curator or Director: Graduates with a deep understanding of craft and material studies often pursue careers as gallery curators or directors. In these roles, they select and organize exhibitions, promote emerging artists, and contribute to the cultural enrichment of their communities.

4. Art Critic or Writer: Some alumni with a flair for writing become art critics or writers, providing insightful analysis and commentary on art and craft. They contribute to publications, blogs, and journals, shaping critical discourse within the art world.

5. Museum or Gallery Technician: Career paths in art preservation and curation are available to graduates. They work as museum or gallery technicians, responsible for the handling, installation, and maintenance of artwork in cultural institutions.

6. Art Consultant: Graduates can pursue careers as art consultants, helping individuals, businesses, and institutions acquire artwork for their collections. They offer expertise in art market trends and help clients make informed decisions.

7. Entrepreneurial Craftsperson: Entrepreneurial alumni may establish their craft businesses, designing and crafting unique handmade objects, ceramics, textiles, or other artisanal items. This allows for creative autonomy and the possibility of commercial success.

8. Public Art Commissions: Artists with an M.F.A. in Craft/Material Studies often receive commissions for public art installations, sculptures, or functional craft pieces in public spaces. These projects contribute to the beautification of communities.

9. Art Conservationist: Graduates interested in preserving and restoring art and cultural artifacts can pursue careers as art conservationists. They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of artistic and historical treasures.