Students can refine their artistic skills in art graduate programs.
Also known as an MFA, a Master's degree in the arts can teach students to use industrial, graphic or interior designs, as well as painting and drawing for practical and commercial purposes. Additionally, an MFA will provide students the opportunity to further explore their creative talents under the direction of seasoned veterans. If you are looking to attend the best college for an MFA consider a school's ranking, job placement rates, faculty members, curriculum and location to determine the best fit for you.
Graphic Design
The Rhode Island School of Design, which U.S. News ranks number 1 in graphic design, teaches students to prioritize social context, media and aesthetics in their compositions. Students who prefer life in the big city, however, can study at the School of Visual Arts in New York. Students here will be taught to navigate the complex relationship between graphic artist and clients while maintaining creative control. The California Institute of the Arts and California College of the Arts are ranked number 8 and 10 in graphic design by U.S. News, respectively.
Industrial Design
Those interested in creating products for mass use will have many options in an Industrial Design MFA program. The Art Center College in Pasadena, California, is ranked number 1 and teaches students to strive for innovation as well as sound business practices. The research-based MFA in Design Development at Ohio State University, likewise, encourages students to add new knowledge to the field while refining professional skills. The Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, is a small university that encourages creativity and artistic risk-taking.
Interior Design
Students interested in designing spaces to improve aesthetics and functionality will find an MFA in Interior Design to be the appropriate avenue for them. Both the Pratt Institute and Rhode Island School of Design offer MFAs in Interior Design, and are ranked numbers 1 and 2 in this field, respectively. The University of Cincinnati is unique in that it requires students to participate in a co-op program, which places students in jobs throughout the year.
Painting/Drawing
The top 5 colleges that provide an MFA in painting or drawing are located across the country. With schools like Yale and UCLA, students who prioritize school name-recognition will have no shortage of options. Students can explore their options at Columbia University in New York or the Maryland Institute College of Art where they can tailor their education to their interests. Ultimately, with so many options, students can decide between factors like class size, weather and cost.
Tags: Interior Design, explore their, graphic design, Industrial Design, Island School, Island School Design