MFA Online Degrees & Online Masters in Fine Arts Programs
For the graduate student with a keen interest in advancing their education in fine arts, combined with a desire to learn via a web-based format, online MFA programs might be a great fit. Online study typically allows the learner to work at his or her own pace, using a course management system. Digital technology keeps students connected to faculty and classmates so there is a semblance of the college atmosphere. For the busy adult or working professional, online MFA programs might make the most sense. Time otherwise spent commuting might be better spent creating!
About Online MFA Programs
Generally online MFA programs offer students the chance to demonstrate and refine their creative abilities, enhance their conceptual development of ideas and improve techniques within a specialty field. Online MFA degrees encompass many different specialties such as those listed below.
- Visual arts
- Creative writing
- Graphic design
- Photography
- Filmmaking
- Dance
- Theatre and Performing Arts
Online MFA programs may also touch on some administrative roles such as theatre management or arts administration.
Typically, in order to apply for admission into an online Master of Fine Arts program, students must possess a Bachelor’s degree. Some programs may also require a portfolio or audition as part of the admission procedure.
GradSchools.com has some easy to use search tools to help you determine where online MFA programs are offered. Browse by degree type or just scroll through the listings to find general Online MFA degrees and also specializations within the Fine Arts. For instance, find Online Master of Arts –Creativity Studies, Online MA in Art Education, Online Master of Arts Administration, Online Master in Art History, or Online Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing. These are only a few options!
Potential Advantages to Earning Online MFA Degrees
Not only could online MFA programs provide a flexible and convenient way to learn, they may also be a great way to build your creative toolkit and enhance your career. Although there are some exceptions to this, in the United States, a Master of Fine Arts is recognized as a terminal degree for practitioners of Visual Art, Design, Dance, Photography, Theatre, Film/Video, New Media, and Creative Writing. This means that it is considered to be the highest degree in its field, and is used as a minimum qualification to be able to apply to become a Full-Time Professor teaching at the University level in these disciplines.
Also, while occupations in the Fine Arts necessitate artistic ability, which may come naturally to you, they also may require other important qualities, which online MFA programs may help students acquire and fine-tune. Some of these include business skills, creativity and imagination, customer service skills, dexterity, and good interpersonal skills.
FUN FACT: Many artists pursue postsecondary education and take classes or earn degrees that can improve their skills. Many colleges and universities offer master’s degrees in fine arts, where, in addition to studio art and art history, programs may include core subjects, such as English, social science, and natural science.
Potential Career Paths For Graduates With Master of Fine Arts Degrees
Earning a Master of Fine Arts Degree might lead to a variety of career paths, depending on what your specialization and level of education. Some of these might include a career based in art, teaching, administration, writing or photography.
- Art, Drama and Music Teachers: teach courses in drama, music, and the arts including fine and applied art, such as painting and sculpture, or design and crafts. Some do a combination of both teaching and research.
- Writers and Authors: develop written content for advertisements, books, magazines, movies, television, songs and other publications.
- Multimedia Artists and Animators: create animation, special and visual effects for television, movies, video games, music videos, commercials and other media.
DID YOU KNOW? Freelance artists try to develop a set of clients who regularly contract for work. Some freelance artists are widely recognized for their skill in specialties like cartooning or children’s book illustrations. These artists may earn high incomes and can choose the type of work they do.
If you are looking to build your maturity as a creative individual and are able to motivate yourself to study and complete projects on your own, earning an Online MFA degree might be the right format for taking your education in Fine Arts up to the next level. Start reviewing your options on here today!
State | Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
---|---|---|
California | 11,010 | $85,810 |
New York | 10,940 | $75,380 |
Texas | 6,150 | $59,200 |
Pennsylvania | 5,540 | $69,340 |
Massachusetts | 5,190 | $82,370 |
Popular Schools with Online MFA
GradSchools.com offers 21 MFA Online
Whidbey Island Writers Association
School of Visual Arts
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
East Carolina University
Drexel University
Vermont Studio Center
Colorado State University
Tiffin University
New Hampshire Institute of Art
Vermont College of Fine Arts
Goucher College
Savannah College of Art and Design