M.F.A. in Painting and Printmaking

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 Painting and Printmaking program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a prestigious and comprehensive program that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in the world of visual arts. Graduates of this program go on to pursue diverse and rewarding careers in the art world.

1. Professional Artist: Many M.F.A. in Painting and Printmaking graduates choose to establish themselves as professional artists. They create and exhibit their artwork, participating in gallery shows, art fairs, and solo exhibitions. Their unique artistic voices contribute to the contemporary art scene.

2. Gallery Director or Curator: Some alumni enter the realm of gallery management and curation. They may work as gallery directors, curators, or exhibition coordinators, overseeing art exhibitions and managing gallery spaces.

3. Art Educator: Graduates with a passion for teaching can pursue careers as art educators at the secondary or post-secondary level. They share their expertise, inspire students, and shape the next generation of artists.

4. Art Critic or Writer: Art critics and writers play a crucial role in the art world. Graduates with strong writing skills can become art critics, contributing reviews and essays to art publications, websites, and newspapers.

5. Illustrator: Some alumni find careers as illustrators, creating artwork for books, magazines, advertisements, and digital media. They use their artistic skills to convey messages and tell visual stories.

6. Art Conservator or Restorer: Art conservators and restorers are responsible for preserving and restoring artworks. Graduates with a deep understanding of painting and printmaking techniques can work in museums, galleries, and conservation labs.

7. Freelance Artist or Commissioned Painter: Many M.F.A. graduates choose to work as freelance artists, accepting commissioned projects from clients who seek personalized artwork for homes, businesses, or public spaces.

8. Art Gallery Manager or Owner: Some alumni with an entrepreneurial spirit establish their own art galleries. They curate exhibitions, represent artists, and manage the business aspects of running a gallery.

9. Art Consultant: Art consultants assist individuals, corporations, and organizations in acquiring art for their spaces. They provide expertise in selecting and purchasing artwork that aligns with their clients' preferences and needs.