Overview

The Art - Painting M.F.A. at the University of Memphis provides a sophisticated environment for artists to advance their technical skills and conceptual vision. This postgraduate programme encourages students to explore new directions in the medium while engaging deeply with contemporary artistic practices and theoretical frameworks.

Why Art - Painting at the University of Memphis?

Students benefit from dedicated facilities designed for high-level creative production, including specialized studio spaces equipped with projectors, professional aluminum and steel easels, and extensive painting carts. The department fosters a supportive atmosphere where candidates receive direct faculty mentorship and participate in frequent critiques to refine their artistic output. Competitive graduate assistantships are also available, offering students the chance to gain professional teaching experience while working alongside expert faculty and staff.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 678 per credit
National fee: USD 678 per credit
Local fee: USD 678 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances intensive studio work with theoretical study, culminating in a final thesis exhibition and oral defence. Modules may include:

Technical Proficiency
Conceptual Development
Artistic Exploration
Interdisciplinary Approaches
Critical Discourse
Theoretical Studies
Art History
Art Theory
Aesthetics

Careers with Art - Painting

Graduates are prepared to launch professional careers as practicing artists, exhibiting their work in galleries and participating in juried exhibitions. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those intending to pursue further doctoral studies or academic roles within the field of painting. By developing a cohesive body of work and a mastery of surface manipulation and composition, alumni are equipped to navigate the contemporary art market and contribute to social and cultural commentary through their creative practice.

Programme Structure

Program objectives are:

(1) professional studio competence as exemplified by a significant body of work;

(2) professional competence in the dissemination of knowledge, including logical and clear written and verbal expression of ideas in teaching contexts;

and (3) development of skills for critical and analytical reasoning as a practicing art professional.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Memphis, United States

Disciplines

Painting & Drawing View 44 other Masters in Painting & Drawing in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.7

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

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

Portfolio: Approval by the area graduate committee of the applicant’s creative work as specified below:

Graphic Design: 20-30 images in a powerpoint presentation, of original and/or printed works. Submission of original work may be requested.
Ceramics, Painting, Printmaking/ Photography, and Sculpture: 20-30 images in a powerpoint presentation, of work mainly in the applicant’s concentration area plus some slides of drawings and optional other media. Include additional views of 3D pieces. Submission of original work might be requested.
Letters of recommendation: Letters from two persons familiar with the applicant’s creative activity but who are not members of the area graduate committee. If applying for a teaching assistantship, each recommendation should contain reference to the applicant’s teaching ability. Graphic design applicants are required to submit two letters of reference.
Statement

Tuition Fees

Living costs

Memphis

United States

955 - 1582 USD / month

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

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 - Painting.

Available Scholarships

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On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

Living costs

Memphis

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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