Overview

The Visual Art programme at the University of California, Riverside offers a sophisticated environment for motivated students to pursue advanced artistic research. This three-year Master of Fine Arts degree focuses on an interdisciplinary approach, allowing practitioners to explore traditional and contemporary media.

Set against the striking landscape of the San Bernardino Mountains, the department provides an intimate scale of study. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, participants engage deeply with internationally recognised faculty members. The curriculum is designed to support independent creative work through rigorous consultation and critique.

Students have access to exceptional resources, including 24-hour entry to digital labs, photography suites, and a fully equipped sculpture shop.

Why Visual Art at the University of California, Riverside?

The institution is a world-class research university that encourages students to take advantage of diverse course offerings across various departments. This interdisciplinary freedom allows artists to ground their practice in broader academic contexts, from cultural studies to history.

Facilities are a major strength, featuring purpose-built studio complexes where each student receives a private workspace exceeding 350 square feet. The proximity to the international art scene in Los Angeles provides students with vital connections to one of the world's most vibrant creative hubs.

Financial support is a hallmark of the department, with successful applicants often receiving teaching assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities include fee remissions and health insurance, making the programme highly competitive for both domestic and international candidates seeking a focused environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 12005 per semester
National fee: USD 12005 per semester
Local fee: USD 4490 per semester

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

Syllabus

The MFA requires the completion of 72 units, focusing on theory, criticism, and studio production. Modules may include:

Graduate Critique
Contemporary Critical Issues
Critical Theory
Research for Thesis
Art History Graduate Seminar
Directed Individual Studio Production
Art Practice Seminar

Careers with Visual Art

Graduates are prepared for professional careers as exhibiting artists, curators, and critics within the global art market. The programme's emphasis on professional development and teaching assistantships also equips students for roles in higher education and gallery management.

The extensive network of visiting artists and the high-profile thesis exhibition at UCR ARTS ensure that students are visible to industry professionals. Alumni often pursue paths in digital media, sculpture, and painting, supported by the technical skills gained in the university's advanced labs.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Graduate Critique

Contemporary Critical Issues

Critical Theory

Research for Thesis

Art History Graduate Seminar

Individual Tutorial

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-11 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

72 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Riverside, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Fine Arts View 126 other Masters in Fine Arts in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

Statement of Purpose

Personal History Statement

At least three (3) Letters of Recommendation

Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended (including all community colleges).

Please only submit PDF copies of unofficial transcripts with your application. If you are offered and accept admission to the program, the Graduate Admissions office will contact you to request official transcripts.

Graduate Division Supplemental Fellowship Information Form

Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Should include applicant’s references

Slideroom Digital Portfolio

International applicants are required to submit official TOEFL scores as part of their application.

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

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Out-of-State

24010 USD / year

≈ 24010 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

13942 USD / year

≈ 13942 USD / year

Living costs

Riverside

United States

1100 - 1600 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 Visual Art.

Available Scholarships

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

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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

Riverside

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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