In Focus: East Carolina University's Interdisciplinary MFA Program
East Carolina University’s School of Art and Design offers a three-year interdisciplinary MFA in Studio Art, which requires 60 credits and is considered a terminal degree. Since 1962, it has been accredited by NASAD and is one of the largest programs in the Southeast, with over 475 undergraduates and 20 graduates. The program encourages mentorship and allows students to explore various fields like ceramics, photography, and sculpture. Facilities include a digital darkroom with 16 iMacs and a lab for alternative processes. Each year, 6-8 new students are accepted, including 1-2 in photography. Graduates showcase their work in a thesis exhibition, and in-state tuition is below $8,000, with $14,000 assistantships available. Alumni thrive in various careers and often return to mentor.
Key facts
- ECU's MFA in Studio Art is a 60-credit, three-year terminal degree.
- The School of Art and Design has been accredited by NASAD since 1962.
- The program is interdisciplinary, with opportunities in ceramics, glass, graphic design, metal design, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and textile design.
- Photography facilities include a digital darkroom, large-format printers, a darkroom with 20 enlargers, and an alternative process lab.
- The program emphasizes mentorship and flexibility, allowing students to shift focus as their work evolves.
- Career support includes a Career Pathways course, Portfolio Throwdown, and SPE conference participation.
- Graduation requires a thesis exhibition at Wellington B. Gray Gallery and a written thesis.
- Tuition is under $8,000 per year for in-state students, with assistantships funded at $14,000 for 20-hour weeks.
- The program admits 6-8 new students annually, with 1-2 focused on photography.
- Alumni pursue careers in academia, studio practice, museums, and industry.
Entities
Artists
- Daniel Kariko
- Angela Franks Wells
- Brian Culbertson
- Cullen Austin Irby
- Morgan Hesse
Institutions
- East Carolina University
- School of Art and Design
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
- Wellington B. Gray Gallery
- Society for Photographic Education
- Brody School of Medicine
- Greenville Museum of Art
- Joyner Library
- Visual Arts Forum
Locations
- North Carolina
- United States
- Greenville
- Louisiana