The MFA in Visual Arts at Purchase College, State of New York (SUNY), is a small, selective interdisciplinary program that promotes students’ artistic, intellectual, and professional growth through independent studio work and rigorous academic study. State-of-the-art facilities include photography, video and digital laboratories; wood and metal shops; sound art studios; and printmaking and letterpress studios. Nearby, New York City’s vast arts communities play a vital role in curricular and extracurricular activities. The 2025 thesis show will take place at the PS122 Gallery in Manhattan.
For students interested in developing teaching skills, we offer paid opportunities to teach students and develop courses based on individual expertise.
Dual Degree Option
The MFA/MA degree combines the MFA degree with an MA in Visual Art and Modern and Contemporary Art, Criticism and Theory, with art history requirements completed in a third year of study.
To enrich their experience, students have access to the Neuberger Museum of Art, Purchase College’s campus museum and the eighth largest college museum in the country; a renowned Center for the Performing Arts; and community engagement opportunities across the United States.
Housing grants and scholarships
Founded in 1967, Purchase college was founded to provide students of all backgrounds with access to affordable, high-quality arts education. We remain committed to that mission today: in-state tuition is $13,256 ($25,506 for out-of-state students), along with significant scholarships, full housing assistance for qualified students, and education grants.
A vibrant community of makers and thinkers
Graduate students are mentored by renowned working artists in a variety of disciplines, from traditional materials to cutting-edge technology. Faculty includes Sharon Horvath, Rob Swainston, Kate Gilmore, Cynthia Lin, Liz Flood, Stella Ebner, Hakan Topal, Rachel Owens, Joshua Lutz, Lachell Workman, Katie Murray, Adam Pape, Timothy Briner, Amanda Thackray, Brooke Singer, Max Ferro, Georgina Arroyo, Dave Walsh, Virginia Wagner, Esteban Cabeza de Baca, Travis Fairclough and Tova Snyder.
Students also receive regular critiques as part of a robust lecture series from guest artists and curators. Recent visitors include Elle Pérez, Fred Wilson, Katherine Bradford, James Welling, Hank Willis Thomas, Latoya Hobbs, Tomashi Jackson, Guadalupe Maravilla, Clarity Haynes, Mark Dion and Chie Fueki.
Contact admissions@purchase.edu for application information and apply online at purchasing.edu.
For more information, contact Julian Kreimer, MFA President, at julian.kreimer@purchase.edu.
