M.F.A. in Art

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUN. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education with strong academic performance.

2. Minimum GPA: CSUN typically looks for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent. 

3. English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score below 6.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 58 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN), is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. International Achievement Scholarship: CSUN's International Achievement Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.

2. The Dream US Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at undocumented students, including those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. It provides financial support to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.

3. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarships: CSUN offers scholarships to international students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP). These scholarships are awarded based on merit and help students improve their English language skills.

4. Privately Funded Scholarships: CSUN administers several privately funded scholarships that are available to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to academic major, community involvement, or other factors.

5. Study Abroad Scholarships: CSUN encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help offset the costs associated with studying abroad, including program fees and travel expenses.

6. External Scholarships: CSUN also assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may be offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.

7. Athletics Scholarships: CSUN has a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program. Talented international student-athletes may be eligible for athletics scholarships based on their sports achievements.

8. Cultural Scholarships: Some cultural organizations and clubs on campus may offer scholarships to international students who are actively engaged in promoting and celebrating their cultures.

9. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUN provides opportunities for graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and may include tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable experience while pursuing their degrees.

10. Research Assistantships: - International graduate students can also explore research assistantship positions that provide financial support while contributing to research projects in their field of study.

Application Process: To be considered for scholarships at CSUN, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application provided by the university. Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements.

Graduating with a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Art from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) opens up a world of opportunities for artists. This program equips graduates with advanced skills, a strong portfolio, and critical thinking abilities that are essential for success in the dynamic and competitive field of visual arts.  

1. Professional Artist: Many M.F.A. graduates choose to pursue careers as professional artists. They create and exhibit their artwork, participating in local, national, and international art shows, galleries, and exhibitions. CSUN's comprehensive training equips them to experiment with different media, techniques, and styles, allowing them to develop a unique artistic voice.

2. Gallery Owner or Curator: Graduates may explore opportunities as gallery owners or curators. They can open their own art galleries, promoting their work and that of other artists. Alternatively, they can curate exhibitions for existing galleries, museums, or cultural institutions, shaping the art scene and introducing new talents to the public.

3. Art Educator: Teaching is a rewarding career path for M.F.A. graduates. They can become university-level art professors, passing on their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of artists. Alternatively, they may work in K-12 schools, community colleges, or art centers as art instructors, helping students develop their artistic skills.

4. Museum Professional: Museums offer diverse roles for M.F.A. graduates, including positions as museum directors, conservators, registrars, and exhibition designers. These professionals contribute to preserving and showcasing art collections for the public's enjoyment and education.

5. Art Administrator: Graduates can pursue careers as art administrators, managing art organizations, nonprofits, or cultural centers. They oversee budgets, plan exhibitions, coordinate events, and ensure the smooth operation of art-related institutions.

6. Art Therapist: Some M.F.A. graduates choose to become art therapists, using art as a therapeutic tool to help individuals cope with emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges. This career path combines their artistic talents with a commitment to improving people's well-being.

7. Commercial Artist or Illustrator: Artists with an M.F.A. may explore commercial art or illustration careers, working in advertising, publishing, graphic design, or animation. Their creative skills are highly sought after in these industries.

8. Art Critic or Writer: Graduates can become art critics, journalists, or writers, contributing to art publications, blogs, or newspapers. They offer valuable insights into the art world, reviewing exhibitions, profiling artists, and analyzing trends.

9. Public Art and Installation Artist: Some artists specialize in creating public art installations, sculptures, or murals. They collaborate with municipalities, architects, and developers to enhance public spaces and contribute to the cultural enrichment of communities.

10. Art Entrepreneur: Entrepreneurial graduates may establish art-related businesses, such as art studios, design firms, or online art marketplaces. They use their creativity to develop innovative products or services that cater to the art-loving audience.

11. Freelance Artist: Many artists choose the flexibility of freelancing, accepting commissions, and contract work. They create custom pieces, designs, or installations for clients, allowing them to maintain creative independence.

12. Arts and Culture Manager: Arts and culture managers oversee cultural programs, festivals, or arts organizations. They play a vital role in promoting and supporting the arts within their communities.