MFA.ILLUS.2YR - MFA in Illustration (2-year program)

2025 - 2026 | Curriculum | 2-year program

Illustration MFA students progress through the program by taking on increasingly complex projects oriented around critical issues in illustration theory and practice. Required seminars and studios are supported by additional studies in art and design and elective courses across the college, allowing students opportunities for focused, personally meaningful study.

The experience culminates in a final thesis project that builds on work completed throughout the program. In completing the thesis, degree candidates explore ideas, methods and modes of expression that suit their goals as socially engaged artists and communicators.

Learning outcomes

Graduates of the MFA program are prepared to:

• envision, initiate and bring to completion artistic projects that communicate socially relevant ideas in appropriately provocative or nuanced ways.

• confidently experiment with materials, media, complex information and modes of making in order to enhance one’s work as a visual communicator.

• become a competent and sensitive collaborator who seeks out experts, other artists and designers or community contributors to advance ideas and to complete art and design projects.

• develop skills in focused research, and strengthen the ability to engage deeply with text.

• assume active leadership roles in artistic practice and/or higher education, continuing the department’s commitment to art as a powerful instrument of civic engagement.