COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Fine Arts (Studio) thesis option requires candidates to complete a structured, term-by-term course sequence focused on studio practice, critical inquiry, and professional development. In the first term (Fall), students undertake FINE 690 Graduate Studio 1 (1.00 credit), FINE 680 Issues in Contemporary Art 1 (0.50 credit), one elective course (0.50 credit), a pedagogy elective (0.50 credit), and a teaching assistantship with a full-time faculty member. By the end of this term, a faculty committee is appointed to guide the candidate’s studio progress. In Term Two (Winter), students complete FINE 691 Graduate Studio 2 (1.00 credit), FINE 681 Issues in Contemporary Art 2 (0.50 credit), another elective (0.50 credit), and continue their teaching assistantship. Term Three (Spring) includes FINE 692 Graduate Summer Studio (1.00 credit), where students engage in the Keith and Win Shantz International Research Scholarship, working six weeks as an assistant to a professional artist, followed by independent studio work culminating in an exhibition. Terms Four and Five (Fall and Winter) require senior seminars FINE 682 and FINE 683 (each 0.50 credit), plus electives—those not on the pedagogy option must take an additional elective in Term Four. Candidates complete three half-credit electives, which may include one undergraduate course and two graduate-level courses (FINE 694 or FINE 695), either within Fine Arts or approved courses from other departments or institutions, subject to approval by the Associate Chair to ensure relevance and appropriateness.