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Graduate Degree Requirements

Department of Fine Arts - Master of Fine Arts

The MFA program at the University of Waterloo will provide you with a stimulating environment in which to develop the conceptual and critical dimensions of your work through studio practice and seminars. 

We encourage experimentation, dialogue and innovation, and our faculty members will work with you to realize your individual artistic objectives.

We provide all of our full time graduate students with studio space, practical experience teaching in our undergraduate program, and an opportunity to travel and work with an established mentor artist in our unique Shantz Summer Internship Program.

More information about the University of Waterloo's graduate programs in general and scholarship opportunities can be found on the Graduate Studies Office website.

Plan of Study

In their first term, MFA students, under the supervision of the First Year Committee, will carry out work in their chosen area of specialization in FINE 690 and will also complete an additional studio elective course in another medium. In addition, MFA candidates will take the first of a series of seminar courses, one of which is required during each fall and winter term. These courses will deal with the issues which concern contemporary artists and critics.

At the end of the first term, two faculty advisors will be assigned to work with each student for the duration of their tenure in the program, and will be present as members of the candidate's thesis defense committee.

At the conclusion of their last term within the MFA program, each candidate will mount a solo exhibition of work completed in their area of specialization. The MFA candidate will defend his/her work before a defense committee (which will include an external examiner) to ensure that the candidate's work has been carried out at a high standard of professional competence.

In addition, the popular Keith and Win Shantz internship program provides an opportunity for students during the first summer of their MFA program to work along side established artists learning the "business" aspects of working as an artist.

Duration of Program

Full-time students will require five consecutive terms to complete this program, which begins in the fall term. Requests for part-time study will also be considered; however, the first two terms will have to be completed on a full-time basis. It is expected and required that students shall reside in the Waterloo area during their period of active enrolment and make regular use of the studios provided.

Applications

Applications will be considered from those who have completed a four-year Honours BA or BFA or equivalent with a 75% average or better.

Applicants will be required to complete an application form, provide 20 images of recent work, a short statement of intention and a resume. In addition, transcripts and three letters of recommendation are required.

For further information on graduate studies and to apply on-line, visit the Graduate Studies Office.

Application deadline for Fall admission is January 15th, 2012. The faculty will review the applications shortly thereafter but will continue to review applications until a suitable cohort of four candidates are selected for the 2012-2013 academic year.

More information