Programs

MFA in Art Studio

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Art Studio program at UC Santa Barbara is a two-year graduate program designed for artists seeking advanced training and studio practice. The program emphasizes a broad spectrum of interests within visual studies, providing students with private studio spaces and access to extensive facilities. Graduates are prepared for further artistic development and engagement with the art world. This program is highly selective, typically admitting 5-9 students annually from a pool of 90-100 applicants. While a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is not strictly required, an undergraduate degree with an emphasis in visual studies is recommended. The curriculum requires 72 quarter units, including studio courses, theory and criticism, thesis preparation, and electives. Students undergo faculty review at the end of their first year and must complete a final thesis project and written thesis overseen by a faculty committee.