Low-Residency MFA in Visual Studies

MFA Curriculum Chart

3-year, 60 credit program

Year One   Year Two   Year Three

Summer (8 weeks)

course titleCredits
Graduate Studio4.5
Graduate Critique Seminar3
Contemporary Art Seminar3
Visiting Artist Lecture Series1.5

Fall (15 weeks)

course titleCredits
Mentor Guided Independent Graduate Studio3

Winter (4 days)

course titleCredits
Library Research Course1.5
Winter Review1.5

Spring (15 Weeks)

course titleCredits
Mentor Guided Independent Graduate Studio3

Applications for Summer admittance to this program will be reviewed beginning January 18, 2013.  Applications will continue to be accepted until the class is filled.

Modeled after the successful MFA in Visual Studies Program, this 60-credit low-residency, mentor-based art program takes place during three or four consecutive summers. This multifaceted and flexible structure emphasizes PNCA’s educational philosophy of fostering independent rigorous inquiry and encouraging cross-disciplinary dialog. The program is ideal for motivated students who can work independently, who desire a flexible structure and who enjoy the challenge and community of an immersive program.

Students gather each summer for eight-week sessions, which include graduate seminars, critique sessions, visiting artist lectures, and intensive periods of studio practice.  Students participate in onsite graduate seminars and unique subject focused institutes run by PNCA faculty, and by visiting artists and scholars.  A lecture series introduces MFA students to a diverse range of artistic, scholarly, philosophical and cultural voices.  Each student receives his or her own studio space where they develop new work as well as have one-on-one studio visits with visiting artists.  The studios are clustered around a dynamic hub informed by stimulating dialog with peers and meaningful interactions with visiting artists.  Summers also offer opportunities for off-site residencies.

The Fall and Spring semesters are periods of deeper contemplation and productivity during which the MFA students work off-site in their personal studios to incorporate the ideas and insights gained from the Summer into their studio practice, research, and writing. The MFA Chair assists in the selection of a local mentor for these semesters, an expert in the student’s area of focus who will provide guidance and support while maintaining the rigorous standards of the program.  This mentorship is an integral component of the program bringing diversity, richness and depth of experience to the MFA candidates. 

During four days in January, students meet on campus for Winter reviews during which they receive feedback on work produced during the Fall and engage in intensive seminars and short workshops.

The candidate’s experience culminates in the production of an object for exhibition, the presentation of an oral defense of the work and the completion of a written thesis paper.

A brief glimpse into the Low-Residency MFA in Visual Studies at PNCA. Click the images for more information.

About PNCA

Since its founding in 1909, PNCA has evolved into a leader in innovative programming that connects students to the world through fine art and design education. In addition to the mentor-based MFA in Visual Studies, the College’s programs include a Master of Fine Arts in Applied Craft and Design, a Master of Fine Arts in Collaborative Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Communication Design, Illustration, Intermedia, General Fine Arts, Painting, Photography, Printmaking and Sculpture. Located in an award-winning campus in the heart of the Pearl district, PNCA is actively involved in Portland’s cultural programming through exhibitions and a vibrant public program of lectures and visiting artists.

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