CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme centres on advanced studio practice in a chosen studio concentration such as painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, new media or interdisciplinary practices. Coursework balances practical studio hours with seminars in contemporary art theory, art history, and criticism. Typical modules and activities include:

• Studio Critique and Practice — regular, faculty-led critiques and sustained individual studio time to develop a coherent body of work.
• Contemporary Theory and History — seminars that situate studio work within global contemporary art debates, museum practice and cultural theory.
• Professional Practices — courses on portfolio development, grant writing, exhibition-making, gallery relations and arts entrepreneurship.
• Electives and Cross-Registration — opportunities to take elective courses across CUNY colleges in areas such as photography, digital media, curatorial studies or public art.
• Thesis Exhibition and Research Project — culmination in a public exhibition or substantial project accompanied by a written statement or critical essay.

Students also benefit from visiting-artist programmes, curated talks, and opportunities to engage with museums and galleries across New York City as part of their ongoing practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in fine art or a related field, or to demonstrate equivalent studio experience. Typical entry requirements include:

• Academic transcript showing an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualifications.
• Portfolio of recent work submitted in the format specified by the department, demonstrating technical skill, conceptual development and an ability to sustain a studio practice.
• Personal statement outlining artistic aims, research interests and reasons for applying to the programme.
• References — usually two academic or professional referees who can comment on your studio practice and academic potential.
• Interview — shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview (in person or online) and may be asked to present their work and discuss their practice.
• English language proficiency for non-native speakers, demonstrated through an accepted test or other approved evidence of ability to study in English.

Specific entry conditions and portfolio requirements can vary by CUNY college and studio area; applicants should consult the relevant departmental pages for precise guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a concentrated practice and professional skills applicable across the cultural sector. Common career paths include:

• Professional artist — producing work for exhibitions, public commissions and artist residencies.
• Curatorial and museum work — roles in exhibition-making, collections, education and public programmes.
• Arts administration and management — positions in non-profit organisations, galleries, cultural organisations and festivals.
• Teaching — many MFA graduates teach studio practice in community arts settings, secondary schools (with appropriate certification) and, with experience, higher-education roles where an MFA is often the terminal professional degree.
• Related creative roles — such as arts writing and criticism, conservation support, design and interdisciplinary collaboration in media and technology.

The programme’s New York City location and CUNY’s institutional links support networking, internships and public-facing exhibition opportunities that help graduates enter a competitive creative economy.

Why study at CUNY (The City University of New York)

Studying within CUNY offers direct access to one of the world’s most active contemporary art scenes. Students benefit from:

• Location and networks — proximity to major museums, commercial galleries, artist-run spaces and cultural institutions across New York City.
• Practising faculty — instruction from active artists, curators and scholars who combine studio mentorship with critical engagement.
• Resources and facilities — dedicated studio space, workshops, darkrooms and digital labs, together with exhibition venues for thesis shows and group exhibitions.
• Diverse, urban learning community — a multicultural student body and collaborative environment that reflects the city’s cultural diversity.
• Cross-campus opportunities — ability to draw on CUNY’s wider academic resources, guest-lecture series and partnerships with local arts organisations.

These features make CUNY a practical and stimulating environment for artists seeking to develop a sustained practice while building professional pathways within the visual arts sector.