RISD Global Arts and Cultures MA 2026

[Shirley Jackson]

Hello! I thought I would start a convo in here about the Global Arts and Cultures MA program at RISD. I got an email two days ago from them saying "After careful consideration, the College has made the decision to pause admissions to the program for one year due to lower-than-anticipated application numbers and the resulting challenge of enrolling a viable cohort for the coming academic year." Such a bummer after spending so much time on my application! Has anyone else here applied to this program, or is a past student and has experience with it? They also said "To support you during this transition, your application fee will be refunded in full. Additionally, should you choose to apply to another graduate program, and the deadline for that program has passed, we would be happy to provide a letter of support on your behalf". I can't imagine a letter of support from them would be effective for programs that have already had their application deadlines. Thanks in advance for any input!

[999]

I didn’t apply to this program, but I just wanted to say I’m really sorry—that’s such a disappointing outcome after all the time and care you put into your application. Really hope another opportunity works out for you soon!