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SVA to Close Photography MFA Program in 2028 Amid Deficit

institutional · 2026-09-11

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) is set to discontinue its graduate program in Photography, Video, and Related Media, as announced by Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Jason Koth in an email to Hyperallergic. This program will conclude with the graduation of the Class of 2028, allowing current MFA Photo students to finish their degrees without disruption. Koth cited ongoing economic difficulties at SVA, a national drop in graduate photography enrollments, and adverse federal policies as reasons for the program's closure. This decision follows SVA's earlier announcement regarding the termination of its graduate curatorial practice track next spring, coinciding with the retirement of founder Steven Henry Madoff. Charles Traub, who established the program in 1988, expressed disappointment, suggesting that improved coordination and innovative approaches to AI could have prevented this outcome. The closure signifies the end of a 40-year MFA track at the New York institution.

Key facts

  • SVA will end its graduate Photography, Video, and Related Media program.
  • The program will close in its 40th year with the Class of 2028's graduation.
  • Current MFA Photo candidates will be able to complete their degrees without interruption.
  • Provost Jason Koth cited SVA's ongoing economic challenges, nationwide enrollment decline in graduate photography programs, and federal policy and financial headwinds.
  • The closure follows SVA's decision to end its graduate curatorial practice track next spring, tied to the retirement of founder and chair Steven Henry Madoff.
  • Founding Chair Charles Traub launched the program in 1988.
  • Traub said the closure could have been avoided through better coordination and a more aggressive approach to the future of AI.
  • The announcement was made in an email shared with Hyperallergic.

Entities

Artists

  • Jason Koth
  • Steven Henry Madoff
  • Charles Traub

Institutions

Locations

  • New York
  • United States

Sources

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