Jump to content

Theory heavy MFA


itscontents

Recommended Posts

I am considering schools to apply to for my MFA application for 2015 or 2016.  

 

Which schools are renowned for a theory heavy program, possibly leading to a phD, but not necessarily. I want to be in a school that emphasizes critical studies, reading and writing, and would even consider doing an MA in theory that allows for an artistic practice within and throughout the program.

 

I am interested in programs that offer a writing/making approach as I am strongly interested in both writing/reading as well as performance. I have found Goldsmiths to have a program similar to this (MA Phil/Phd) and am wondering what other options are out there as some of you may have suggestions. I would like a program where reading is analyzed precisely, and there is in-depth analysis of texts, where the writing of myself and my peers is really challenged and pushed, rather than skimming over texts and getting broad understandings to haphazardly connect to work. Of course I'm sure many MFA programs will have a lot of reading assigned and it will be up to me to make that a priority, but I also want to be in an environment where others are able to deconstruct and pinpoint theoretical concepts. Many thanks in advance for suggestions.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Good question! I'd be interested in what others have to say about this. I think Goldsmiths is pretty unique that way. 

 

There is the Whitney ISP—it isn't an MFA or MA, but a graduate level program that might still get you into phd programs later...worth checking out.

 

Maybe Northwestern, Columbia? anyone know? Carnegie Mellon? 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...

NSCAD? 

 

They have some good folks in their Art History and Critical Studies department but I don't know if they are involved in the MFA program. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I am considering schools to apply to for my MFA application for 2015 or 2016.  

 

Which schools are renowned for a theory heavy program, possibly leading to a phD, but not necessarily. I want to be in a school that emphasizes critical studies, reading and writing, and would even consider doing an MA in theory that allows for an artistic practice within and throughout the program.

 

I am interested in programs that offer a writing/making approach as I am strongly interested in both writing/reading as well as performance. I have found Goldsmiths to have a program similar to this (MA Phil/Phd) and am wondering what other options are out there as some of you may have suggestions. I would like a program where reading is analyzed precisely, and there is in-depth analysis of texts, where the writing of myself and my peers is really challenged and pushed, rather than skimming over texts and getting broad understandings to haphazardly connect to work. Of course I'm sure many MFA programs will have a lot of reading assigned and it will be up to me to make that a priority, but I also want to be in an environment where others are able to deconstruct and pinpoint theoretical concepts. Many thanks in advance for suggestions.

 

University of California, San Diego (uscd.edu) ---One of the most theory heavy programs I've read up on thus far. They have both MFA and Phd programs.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

UCSD is one of the tiop interdisplinary MFA programs in the country - tution is very reasonable for in state residient. But also look at the degree program in years. UCSD is a three year program. You maybe looking for a two year program for it would be conciderably less cost.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...

CU Boulder. You can do as many theory courses as you like, but certain professors and seminars come heavy with theoretical readings anyway. The degree won't necessarily reflect that, but you'll get the education. 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use