Art

Graduate Program

MFA in Studio Art

***Join School of Art Faculty for a second Virtual Information Session about the MFA program on December 17, 5pm EST! Register here***

Learn about our program: UTK MFA Program BrochureDownload

To request a print copy of our brochure, please email art@utk.edu

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s MFA program is a nationally recognized, rigorous three-year studio experience designed for artists seeking to deepen their practice and build sustainable, impactful careers. Ranked 22nd in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, with
Printmaking ranked 3rd among public universities, UT’s School of Art provides exceptional opportunities for focused creative development and professional growth.

Graduate students choose UT for its strong combination of individualized mentorship, self-directed, cross-disciplinary exploration, and professional preparation. The program offers concentrations in Sculpture, Time-Based Art, Ceramics, Painting + Drawing, and Printmaking, as well as a 12-credit certificate in Cinema Studies, featuring close mentorship with a faculty of renowned artists, scholars, and educators who are active on the national and international stage.

The curriculum encourages rigorous studio work while also supporting conceptual, material, and interdisciplinary experimentation. Students are encouraged to push the boundaries of their practice, explore new subjects and methods, and develop a resilient, dynamic approach to making and thinking. The three-year format allows time for deep research, technical growth, and sustained engagement with contemporary discourse.

Graduate students in our program will achieve these goals by meeting the milestones outlined in the UTK SOA Graduate Handbook, including a public final exhibition, screening, or performance reflecting the culmination of their practice; verbal defense; written component; and extensive documentation. MFA students are encouraged to take advantage of the resources outside of the School of Art as active members of the University of Tennessee research community.

The University of Tennessee MFA Studio Art program is nationally recognized and respected. The students who accept our invitation to study with us are well served. We are an equal opportunity/inclusive community. Applicants are considered for Graduate Teaching Assistantships with a full tuition waiver, stipend, and health benefits. Outstanding applicants are nominated for additional fellowships. We consider applications for the fall semester only.

Applications for Fall 2026 open on August 1. The deadline for funding consideration is January 15, 2026.

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