Overview

The Art - Visual and Performing Arts M.F.A. at Purdue University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary environment for advanced creative study. This three-year programme is designed to help students refine their artistic or design aesthetic through a combination of theoretical study and intensive studio research. By working closely with actively engaged artist-educators, postgraduates develop the professional competency required for leadership in the creative industries.

The curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in the first half of the programme, allowing the remaining time to be dedicated to original creative research. Students conclude their studies with a significant thesis exhibition, with the additional option of completing a formal written thesis.

Why Art - Visual and Performing Arts at Purdue University?

Students benefit from 24-hour access to specialised studio spaces and advanced facilities within the Yue-Kong Pao Hall of Visual and Performing Arts. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including CNC machines, laser cutters, 3D printers, and professional digital photography labs. Additionally, the university provides access to a Visual Resource Library containing over 130,000 images and numerous professional journals.

The programme's location offers a unique geographical advantage, providing convenient access to the vibrant arts scenes and resources of both Chicago and Indianapolis. On campus, the Purdue Gallery programme serves as a vital learning tool, hosting diverse exhibitions that enrich the academic experience. Students are also supported through competitive teaching assistantships, which offer practical experience in teaching foundation-level drawing and design courses.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 29194 per year
National fee: USD 28794 per year
Local fee: USD 9718 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme requires 60 credit hours of study. Modules may include:

Theory and Research Methods
Art History
Design History
Studio Arts
Design
Graduate Exhibition
Research Project
Industry Internship

Careers with Art - Visual and Performing Arts

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide array of distinguished roles within the global creative sector. Many alumni secure positions in education, arts administration, or as independent exhibiting artists. The advanced technical and theoretical training provided also enables graduates to pursue leadership roles in major corporations and design consultancies.

Common career paths for former students include museum and gallery curating, professional design operations, and specialist roles in visual communication. By fostering a deep understanding of both traditional and hybrid art forms, the programme ensures that graduates remain competitive in an evolving professional landscape.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Critical Theory

Art History

Research Methods

Visual Communication Design

Project Research in Design

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

West Lafayette, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Drama Dance View 68 other Masters in Dance in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts

Recommendation Letters

Academic Statement of Purpose

Personal History Statement

Visual Portfolio

Resume

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

29194 USD / year

≈ 29194 USD / year
Out-of-State

28794 USD / year

≈ 28794 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9718 USD / year

≈ 9718 USD / year

Living costs

West Lafayette

United States

1096 - 1774 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Art - Visual and Performing Arts.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

West Lafayette

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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