COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Art at Sacramento State requires the completion of 30 semester units, structured to balance foundational theory, specialized studio practice, and a culminating experience. Students begin with a Basic Core of 9 units, which includes Art Theory and Criticism (ART 206), Contemporary Art (ART 212), and Studio Critique Seminar 1 (ART 222), providing a foundation in critical analysis, historical context, and professional studio practice. Following the core, students choose 15 units of studio electives, with at least 6 units at the 200-level, allowing for focused development in their chosen disciplines. These electives span a wide array of media and techniques, including drawing, painting, watercolor, life studio, collage, printmaking, digital and new media, video art, ceramics, photography, sculpture, installation, and physical computing. Many courses offer multiple levels or repeatable credits to support advanced skill building and experimentation. The program culminates in a 3-unit Culminating Experience (ART 500), which integrates the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program into a professional-level project, exhibition, or thesis. This structure ensures that graduates leave with both a deep conceptual understanding and practical expertise, prepared for professional practice or further study at the MFA level.