M.F.A. in Art

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

Application Fees : US$ 50

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. Your degree should be relevant to your intended field of study at the postgraduate level.

2. Academic Performance: A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred. This translates to approximately 60% or a 'C' grade.  

3.  English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: An overall score of 79 or higher is required.
   • DET: A minimum score for DET around 100 is required.
      
4. WES Evaluation required.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help them pursue their education in the United States. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership, and other criteria. 

1. Trustee's Scholarship for International Students: This is a highly competitive scholarship awarded to a limited number of incoming international undergraduate students. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition and fees. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement.

2. Global Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship is available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. It is based on academic merit and can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

3. IUP International Student Emergency Fund: This fund is designed to assist international students who face unexpected financial crises during their studies. It provides temporary financial support to help students overcome emergency situations.

4. Graduate Assistantships: IUP offers graduate assistantship opportunities to international graduate students. These positions often include a stipend, tuition remission, and valuable work experience in various academic departments.

5. Foundation for IUP Scholarships: The Foundation for IUP administers a variety of scholarships available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific areas of study.

6. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments and colleges within IUP offer scholarships to students majoring in their respective fields. These scholarships can be highly specialized and may require applicants to meet specific criteria.

7. Athletic Scholarships: IUP offers athletic scholarships to talented student-athletes. International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for these scholarships.

8. External Scholarships: IUP encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. The International Education Office can provide guidance on finding these opportunities.

9. International Student Work Opportunities: International students on F-1 visas are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during school breaks. This provides an opportunity to earn income to support their studies.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Art program at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) offers a dynamic and innovative approach to artistic education, preparing students for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the world of art.  

1. Professional Artist: With an M.F.A. in Art, you'll have the skills and knowledge to pursue a career as a professional artist. Whether you focus on painting, sculpture, digital media, or any other medium, your M.F.A. will provide you with the expertise and creativity needed to thrive in the art world. Many graduates choose to exhibit their work in galleries, participate in art fairs, and develop a portfolio that reflects their artistic vision.

2. Art Educator: For those passionate about sharing their artistic knowledge and nurturing the creativity of others, an M.F.A. can lead to a career in art education. Whether you teach at the K-12 level or in higher education, your advanced degree will open doors to opportunities as an art teacher, professor, or lecturer.

3. Gallery Director or Curator: The art world relies on professionals who can organize and curate exhibitions. Your M.F.A. can prepare you for roles as gallery directors, museum curators, or exhibition coordinators. You'll be responsible for selecting artwork, arranging exhibits, and promoting the artists you represent.

4. Art Therapist: Art therapy is a growing field that leverages the healing power of art. As an art therapist, you'll work with individuals facing emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges. Your M.F.A. can help you develop the skills needed to guide individuals through the creative process and facilitate their self-expression and personal growth.

5. Freelance Artist or Illustrator: Many M.F.A. graduates choose the path of a freelance artist or illustrator. Whether you create illustrations for books, magazines, or digital media or offer your services as a freelance artist for various projects, your degree will validate your skills and attract clients.

6. Art Gallery Owner: If you dream of running your own art gallery, the M.F.A. program can equip you with the knowledge to establish and manage a gallery space. You can represent artists, host exhibitions, and contribute to the local arts community.

7. Art Critic or Writer: A critical understanding of art is essential for art critics and writers. Your M.F.A. can lead to a career in art journalism, where you'll review exhibitions, conduct interviews, and contribute to art magazines, blogs, or newspapers.

8. Public Art Administrator: Public art administrators are responsible for organizing and managing public art installations, sculptures, and cultural events. They work closely with artists and communities to enhance public spaces with art. Your M.F.A. can prepare you for a role in public art administration.

9. Art Residency and Grants: Many artists and institutions offer art residencies and grants to M.F.A. graduates. These opportunities can provide the time and resources to focus on your artistic practice, collaborate with other artists, and experiment with new ideas.

10. Art Sales and Marketing: With a strong understanding of art and its creation, you can excel in art sales, marketing, or gallery management. You'll work to promote artists, manage sales, and ensure the success of art-related businesses.