Masters of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a...
B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies
Richmond, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Craft and Material Studies program designed for students passionate about exploring the intersection of art, craft, and material culture. This interdisciplinary program provides students with a comprehensive education in traditional and contemporary craft practices, emphasizing hands-on studio work, conceptual development, and critical thinking. VCU's B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies program is renowned for its innovative approach, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, providing students with a dynamic learning environment to cultivate their artistic skills and creative vision.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies at VCU is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in craft techniques, materials, and concepts while encouraging experimentation, exploration, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Core courses cover a range of craft disciplines, including ceramics, glass, metal, fiber, wood, and mixed media. Students also have the opportunity to explore related areas such as sculpture, installation, performance, and digital fabrication. The program emphasizes studio practice, technical proficiency, conceptual development, and critical discourse, preparing students to create innovative works of art that push the boundaries of traditional craft practices.
Research Focus: VCU's B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies program encourages students to engage in research and experimentation to develop their artistic practice and contribute to the advancement of craft as a contemporary art form. Faculty members are accomplished artists, scholars, and practitioners who actively contribute to the field through creative inquiry, scholarly research, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, attend lectures, workshops, and symposiums, and showcase their work in exhibitions, publications, and conferences. The program fosters a culture of inquiry, experimentation, and innovation, empowering students to explore new materials, techniques, and concepts in their artistic practice.
Industry Engagement: The B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies program at VCU fosters strong connections with the craft community, providing students with opportunities for professional development, networking, and collaboration. The university's location in Richmond, a vibrant arts hub, offers students access to galleries, museums, studios, residencies, and craft organizations where they can gain real-world experience, exhibit their work, and build professional relationships. Additionally, the program invites guest artists, visiting scholars, and industry professionals to campus for workshops, demonstrations, and critiques, exposing students to diverse perspectives, techniques, and career pathways within the craft field.
Global Perspective: With its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and global awareness, VCU's B.F.A. in Craft and Material Studies program encourages students to explore diverse cultural traditions, perspectives, and techniques in craft and material culture. The curriculum incorporates historical and contemporary works from around the world, exposing students to different cultural contexts, aesthetic traditions, and material practices. The program also offers study abroad opportunities, international exchange programs, and cross-cultural collaborations, allowing students to gain firsthand experience in different cultural contexts and develop a global understanding of craft as a universal language of human expression.
Location
Richmond, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 37588
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 80
Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
- TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 70 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 is required.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Scholarships for International Students at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Craft and Material Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) opens up numerous rewarding career pathways in the arts and related industries. Equipped with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of craft techniques and materials, graduates are well-prepared to pursue various roles in the creative field.
Craft Artist: Many graduates choose to pursue careers as craft artists, specializing in specific mediums such as ceramics, glass, metal, fiber, wood, or mixed media. They create unique works of art, ranging from functional objects to sculptural pieces, using traditional and innovative techniques. Craft artists exhibit their work in galleries, museums, craft shows, and online platforms, and may also undertake commissions, residencies, and public art projects.
Studio Artist: Some graduates opt to work as studio artists, establishing their own independent art practices and producing work in a personal studio space. They develop a body of work that reflects their artistic vision, explores conceptual themes, and showcases their technical skills. Studio artists may sell their work through galleries, art fairs, and online platforms, and may also receive grants, fellowships, and residencies to support their artistic pursuits.
Educator/Teaching Artist: Passionate about sharing their knowledge and skills with others, some graduates pursue careers as educators or teaching artists, teaching craft techniques and concepts to students of all ages. They may work in schools, community centers, museums, or art studios, facilitating workshops, classes, and demonstrations. Teaching artists inspire creativity, foster technical proficiency, and encourage critical thinking through hands-on learning experiences.
Artisan/Craftsperson: Graduates with a strong interest in traditional craft practices may choose to work as artisans or craftspeople, producing handmade goods for sale or commission. They specialize in specific crafts such as pottery, glassblowing, blacksmithing, weaving, or woodworking, creating functional and decorative items with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. Artisans may sell their work through craft markets, artisan fairs, online shops, or specialty boutiques.
Gallery/Museum Professional: Some graduates may pursue careers in galleries, museums, or cultural institutions, working as curators, gallery assistants, or museum educators. They are responsible for organizing exhibitions, managing collections, interpreting artworks, and engaging with visitors. With their expertise in craft and material studies, graduates can contribute to the preservation, presentation, and promotion of craft as a vital component of the cultural heritage.
Craft Entrepreneur: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may choose to start their own craft-related businesses, such as artisanal studios, craft shops, or design firms. They develop unique product lines, market their creations to target audiences, manage operations, and build brand awareness. Craft entrepreneurs combine their artistic talents with business acumen to create successful ventures that support their creative vision and contribute to the craft economy.
