ArchStanton

Hi, While it is true that MFA programs are extremely competitive, I would not completely rule out going for the Masters degree. If your wife's art is focused and evocative, and ideally if she has a history of showing works in galleries, then it is entirely possible that she would be accepted. I have met plenty of successful artists, designers and architects who came from other disciplines. What they all had in common is a very strong portfolio, and a proven history of exhibits or working in art-related fields. Otherwise a bachelors would probably be the better choice. Also, I don't know which OSU you were refering to (Oklahoma State, Oregon State, Ohio State?) but Oregon State does not offer a masters in painting, the closest MFA painting program being about an hour away. She would also find it difficult to apply to an MFA program this late in the year, most schools having deadlines around February for the following Fall. As far as preparation goes, the portfolio is generally the main focus, with schools wanting to see concentrated work with some sense of direction. To what degree of focus depends on the particular school. While the idea is to have a strong sense of direction, it is also important to have experimented with other directions, even if they played only a minor role. The reason is one will be challenged to consider these alternative directions and to have good reason for not following them. Consider it like a hypothesis which needs testing and revising. As far as critical theory, its important to have read up on current issues in the arts, to have some context of contemporary art theory, to be able to relate your own work to this body of knowledge, and to be able to write/research and talk about these issues. Programs can vary widely in how much emphasis is placed on theory, both in the application process and during the program. Finally, an exhibition history is highly recommended for any program, even if the exhibitions are small, local events.