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Tips and Tricks for a Smooth MFA Setup Process with Microsoft Authenticator

In today’s digital world, the need for strong security measures is more important than ever. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a powerful tool that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. Microsoft Authenticator is a popular MFA app that provides a seamless and secure way to verify your identity. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks to ensure a smooth MFA setup process with Microsoft Authenticator.

Understanding the Basics of MFA Setup

Before diving into the specific tips and tricks, it’s essential to understand the basics of MFA setup using Microsoft Authenticator. The first step is to download the app from your device’s app store. Once installed, you’ll need to link it to your online accounts by scanning QR codes or manually entering account details.

During the setup process, you may be prompted to choose between different verification methods such as push notifications, one-time passwords (OTP), or biometric authentication. It’s crucial to select the method that works best for you while balancing convenience and security.

Tip 1: Keep Your Device Secure

The security of your device plays a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness of MFA with Microsoft Authenticator. Make sure your device has up-to-date operating system software and security patches installed. Enable device lock screens with strong passcodes or biometric authentication like fingerprint or face recognition.

Additionally, avoid downloading apps or clicking on suspicious links that could potentially compromise your device’s security. Regularly scan for malware and keep all apps updated to minimize any potential vulnerabilities.

Tip 2: Backup Your Accounts

Losing access to your Microsoft Authenticator app can be frustrating if you haven’t backed up your accounts properly. To avoid this situation, take advantage of the backup feature within Microsoft Authenticator.

By linking your app with your cloud account (such as Microsoft Account or Google Account), you can easily restore your accounts on a new device or in case of app reinstallation. This simple step ensures that even if you lose your device or switch to a new one, you won’t have to go through the hassle of setting up MFA all over again.

Tip 3: Test the Setup and Troubleshoot

Once you’ve completed the MFA setup with Microsoft Authenticator, it’s essential to test its functionality. Verify that you can successfully log in to your accounts using MFA. This step will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is working as intended.

In case you encounter any issues during the testing process or while using MFA, don’t panic. Microsoft Authenticator provides helpful troubleshooting options within the app itself. Look for support documentation or contact customer support if needed. They can assist you in resolving any technical difficulties and ensure a smooth experience with MFA.

Implementing multi-factor authentication with Microsoft Authenticator is an effective way to enhance the security of your online accounts. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure a smooth MFA setup process and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your digital presence is well-protected. Remember to keep your device secure, backup your accounts, and test the setup regularly for optimal performance. Stay safe and secure in today’s digital landscape.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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MFA Degree Overview: Types, Jobs, and Salaries

Learn about the Master of Fine Arts degree program, what you’ll need to apply for admission into graduate school, and the job and salary outlook for MFA degree holders.

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a graduate degree program that provides you with the opportunity to focus on a specific discipline related to the arts, such as creative writing, studio art, or theater. There are many reasons for pursuing an MFA, including getting concentrated time to dedicate to your craft, receiving peer and professional feedback, and further honing your skill set. What’s more, you may qualify for more opportunities after completing your MFA degree. 

Learn about the areas in which you can earn an MFA, the benefits of attending an MFA program, and the salaries you may be able to achieve after graduation. 

What is an MFA degree?

An MFA is a master’s degree that focuses on coursework in a specific artistic field, such as visual arts, performing arts, creative writing, or design. Many MFAs are considered terminal degrees , meaning that it’s the highest degree you can earn in that subject matter. As such, the degree often qualifies you to teach at the university level, in addition to pursuing other opportunities related to your field. 

MFA degree: Areas and concentrations

You can earn your MFA in a number of areas pertaining to the fine arts. That includes both creative fields such as fiction writing, acting, and sculpture, as well as more technical-creative fields, such as film production and stage design. 

Visual arts

In a visual arts program (sometimes called studio arts), you can concentrate in ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting, illustration, photography, and metalsmithing. A visual arts program often includes studio time, so you’ll have a dedicated space to work on your technique while networking with other students and sharing resources. 

Performing arts

In a performing arts program, you can study theater, acting, dance, directing, stage management, and dramaturgy. A performing arts program often provides you with talent development and hands-on opportunities to participate in live productions—both on campus and elsewhere. 

In a media arts program, you can study aspects of documentary or narrative film, including production, directing, cinematography, and scriptwriting. You will likely have the opportunity to contribute in some way to a short- or full-length film as part of your degree requirements. 

In a design program, you can study graphic design, game design, illustration, industrial design, and communication design. Your studies can consist of technology-related courses that improve your ability to work with an array of digital tools, as well as art courses that hone your creative technique. 

Creative writing

In a creative writing program, you have the option of concentrating in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. You will likely take part in workshops where faculty and fellow students critique your work and offer feedback to strengthen your craft. 

In a fashion program, you have the option of studying fashion design, costume design, or textiles. In addition to attending lecture-heavy courses about fashion style and fashion history, you will also focus your efforts on creating and making your own designs.  

Types of MFA programs

Most graduate schools offer two types of MFA degree programs: 

Low-residency programs tend to be more flexible because students do most of their learning remotely with occasional visits to campus.  

High-residency programs tend to be more involved because students do all of their learning on-campus, immersing themselves more fully in the community. 

Both low- and high-residency programs offer coursework to help you meet your artistic goals and advance your professional development. As you research potential MFA programs, pay attention to the type of residency they offer and how they might address your larger goals and needs.  

MFA: Time and costs 

While each school is different, completing an MFA degree can take between two to three years when you’re able to attend full-time. The cost of an MFA degree depends on whether you attend a public or private institution, and whether your program is low- or high-residency. In 2022, the total cost of an MFA program ranged from $24,000 to $73,000 [ 1 ]. Options exist to help alleviate the cost of graduate education , such as assistantships, scholarships, and grants.  

What are the benefits of getting an MFA degree?

Pursuing a Master of Fine Arts degree can help you refine your craft, grow and develop professionally, and learn more about your chosen artistic field. The program is often viewed as an opportunity to build your portfolio, network with professionals and peers, explore new techniques, and take advantage of mentorship and fellowship opportunities.  The MFA may also help you qualify for more job opportunities and prepare you for multiple career paths. 

Other benefits include:

Advanced professional development

Gaining additional knowledge of your craft

Concentrated time to focus on your art 

Teaching opportunities at a college or university

The opportunity to be critiqued by knowledgeable peers

Advantages of an online MFA degree

For learners who require more flexibility, an online college or low-residency program may offer the opportunity to take asynchronous classes from anywhere and at your own pace. Although some MFA programs, such as acting, tend to require an in-person presence, you can effectively study visual arts, design, and creative writing remotely. 

Learn more: 10 Surprising Benefits of Online Learning

What are the entry requirements for an MFA?

Requirements for MFA degrees vary by institution, but most require that you’ve earned your bachelor's degree, though it doesn’t always have to be in the same subject. MFA programs also usually require a portfolio or performance audition. As with any graduate program, you’ll generally need a copy of your previous college transcripts, a resume or CV , three letters of recommendation, an artist statement, and an application fee. 

Creative portfolio 

You'll showcase your creative skills with a portfolio or performance audition. As part of your application, you’ll submit a sample of your work that best speaks to your abilities in that medium. For example, you’ll submit a portfolio of your artwork for a studio art concentration, or a writing sample for a creative writing concentration. Schools will typically ask performing arts applicants for a resume and headshot. Each school will announce its upcoming auditions and the time allowed for each performance. 

What’s the difference between an MFA and an MA?

Although the Master of Fine Arts degree and the Master of Arts (MA) degree are both master’s degrees, they are not the same. Let’s review those differences below. 

The Master of Arts is an academic degree that focuses on subjects in the humanities or social sciences . The degree typically takes around two years to earn and tends to require critical thinking and original research. The MA is not a terminal degree, but students who earn one can go on to pursue their PhD. 

The Master of Fine Arts is a practice-based degree . It's discipline-specific and can take longer to complete than the MA. The focus is on one artistic specialty, and the program is more hands-on. The MFA is also considered a terminal degree.

Career outlook: Salaries and job growth

With an MFA, you can go on to work in your chosen field, such as designing costumes, writing novels, or producing films. Thanks to the terminal nature of the degree, you can also teach at the university level. 

The average salary for MFA degree holders is $64,000 [ 2 ]. Your salary will depend on your chosen profession, the industry you work in, your location, the company your work for, and years of experience. The table below gives you a closer look at the average salaries for MFA degree holders in specific concentrations: 

*All salary data from Payscale

Demand for graduates of an MFA program varies by discipline. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for craft and fine artists are projected to increase 14 percent from 2020 to 2030 [ 3 ]. This is faster than the average growth rate of 8 percent for all occupations in the US. Other fine arts areas projected to increase include writers and authors (9 percent), actors (32 percent), museum curators (19 percent), and postsecondary teachers (12 percent) [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ]. 

Explore further

If you need help narrowing down which fine arts discipline you'd like to pursue, explore artistic career topics on Coursera, such as modern and contemporary art , graphic design , game design , or creative writing . All courses come from leading universities and are available entirely online, so you can learn at your own pace. 

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Article sources 

1. Bouchrika, Imed. “ 15 Most Affordable Online MFA Programs for 2022 , https://research.com/degrees/most-affordable-online-mfa-programs." Accessed May 3, 2022. 

2. Payscale. “Master of Fine Arts (MFA) .”  Accessed May 13, 2022.

3. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Craft and Fine Artists: Occupational Outlook Handbook , www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/craft-and-fine-artists.htm#tab-6." Accessed ‌May 3, 2022.

4. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Writers and Authors: Occupational Outlook Handbook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/writers-and-authors.htm." Accessed ‌May 3, 2022.

5. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Actors: Occupational Outlook Handbook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/actors.htm." Accessed ‌May 3, 2022.

6. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers: Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/curators-museum-technicians-and-conservators.htm." Accessed ‌May 3, 2022.

7. US Bureau of Labor Statistics. " Postsecondary Teache rs: Occupational Outlook Handbook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm." Accessed ‌May 3, 2022.

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MFA Programs Database

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Our MFA database includes essential information about low- and full-residency graduate creative writing programs in the United States and other English-speaking countries to help you decide where to apply.

Adelphi University

Poetry: Jan-Henry Gray, Maya Marshall Prose: Katherine Hill, Igor Webb

Albertus Magnus College

Poetry: Charles Rafferty, Paul Robichaud Fiction: Sarah Harris Wallman Nonfiction: Eric Schoeck

American University

Poetry: Kyle Dargan, David Keplinger Fiction: Dolen Perkins-Valdez, Stephanie Grant, Patricia Park Nonfiction: Rachel Louise Snyder

Antioch University

Poetry: Victoria Chang Prose: Lisa Locascio

Arcadia University

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith Literature: Matthew Heitzman, Christopher Varlack, Elizabeth Vogel, Jo Ann Weiner

Poetry: Genevieve Betts, Michelle Reale Fiction: Stephanie Feldman, Joshua Isard, Tracey Levine, Eric Smith

Arizona State University

Poetry: Sally Ball, Natalie Diaz, Eunsong Kim, Alberto Álvaro Ríos, Safiya Sinclair Fiction: Matt Bell, Jenny Irish, Tara Ison, Mitchell Jackson, T. M. McNally Creative Nonfiction: Sarah Viren

Ashland University

Poetry: Aria Aber, Dexter Booth, Marcelo Hernandez Castillo, Adam Gellings, Tess Taylor, Vanessa Angélica Villareal

Fiction: Kirstin Chen, Brian Conn, Edan Lepucki, Sarah Monette, Nayomi Munaweera, Vi Khi Nao, Naomi J. Williams, Kyle Winkler

Nonfiction: Cass Donish, Kate Hopper, Lauren Markham, Thomas Mira y Lopez, Lisa Nikolidakis, Terese Mailhot, Kelly Sundberg

Augsburg University

Poetry: Jim Cihlar, Michael Kleber-Diggs Fiction: Stephan Eirik Clark, Lindsay Starck Nonfiction: Anika Fajardo, Kathryn Savage Playwriting: Alice Eve Cohen, Carson Kreitzer, TyLie Shider Screenwriting: Stephan Eirik Clark, Andy Froemke

Ball State University

Poetry: Katy Didden, Mark Neely Fiction: Cathy Day, Sean Lovelace Nonfiction: Jill Christman, Silas Hansen Screenwriting: Rani Deighe Crowe, Matt Mullins

Bard College

Mirene Arsanios, CA Conrad, Hoa Nguyen, Christopher Perez, Cedar Sigo, Julian Talamantez Brolaski, Roberto Tejada, Monica de la Torre, Simone White

Bath Spa University

Poetry: Lucy English, Carrie Etter, Tim Liardet, John Strachan, Samantha Walton, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Alexia Casale, Lucy English, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Maggie Gee, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Steve Hollyman, Emma Hooper, Claire Kendal, Kate Pullinger, C.J. Skuse, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Celia Brayfield, Richard Kerridge, Stephen Moss Scriptwriting: Robin Mukherjee

Poetry: Lucy English, Carrie Etter, Tim Liardet, Gerard Woodward Fiction: Gavin James Bower, Celia Brayfield, Nathan Filer, Aminatta Forna, Maggie Gee, Samantha Harvey, Philip Hensher, Claire Kendal, Kate Pullinger, Gerard Woodward Nonfiction: Richard Kerridge, Stephen Moss

Bay Path University

Mel Allen, Leanna James Blackwell, Jennifer Baker, Sari Botton, Melanie Brooks, María Luisa Arroyo Cruzado, Áine Greaney, Shahnaz Habib, Jessica Handler, Ann Hood, Susan Ito, Karol Jackowski, Yi Shun Lai, Anna Mantzaris, Meredith O’Brien, Lisa Romeo, Kate Whouley

Bennington Writing Seminars at Bennington College

Current Faculty: Poetry: April Bernard, Michael Dumanis, Randall Mann, Craig Morgan Teicher, Mark Wunderlich Fiction: Monica Ferrell, David Gates, Manuel Gonzales, Amy Hempel, Jill McCorkle, Elizabeth McCracken, Deirdre McNamer, Stuart Nadler, Katy Simpson Smith, Taymour Soomro Nonfiction: Eula Biss, Jenny Boully, Hugh Ryan, Clifford Thompson, Peter Trachtenberg

Binghamton University

Poetry: Tina Chang, Joseph Weil Fiction: Thomas Glave, Leslie L. Heywood, Liz Rosenberg, Jaimee Wriston-Colbert, Alexi Zentner Nonfiction: Leslie L. Heywood

Bluegrass Writers Studio at Eastern Kentucky University

Poetry: Julie Hensley, Young Smith Fiction: Julie Hensley, Nancy Jensen, Robert D. Johnson Nonfiction: Nancy Jensen, Robert D. Johnson, Evan J. Massey

Boise State University

Poetry: Martin Corless-Smith, Sara Nicholson, Taryn Schwilling Fiction: Mitch Wieland (Director), Anna Caritj Creative Nonfiction: Clyde Moneyhun

Boston University

Poetry: Andrea Cohen, Karl Kirchwey, Robert Pinsky Fiction: Leslie Epstein, Jennifer Haigh, Ha Jin

Boston University—MFA in Literary Translation

Odile Cazenave, Margaret Litvin, Petrus Liu, Christopher Maurer, Roberta Micaleff, Robert Pinsky (advising), Stephen Scully, Sassan Tabatabai, J. Keith Vincent, William Waters, Anna Zielinska-Elliott

Bowling Green State University

Poetry: Abigail Cloud, Sharona Muir, F. Dan Rzicznek, Larissa Szporluk, Jessica Zinz-Cheresnick Fiction: Joe Celizic, Lawrence Coates, Reema Rajbanshi, Michael Schulz

Brigham Young University

Poetry: Kimberly Johnson, Lance Larsen, Michael Lavers, John Talbot Fiction: Chris Crowe, Ann Dee Ellis, Spencer Hyde, Stephen Tuttle Nonfiction: Joey Franklin, Patrick Madden

Brooklyn College

Poetry: Julie Agoos, Ben Lerner Fiction: Joshua Henkin, Madeleine Thien Playwriting: Dennis A. Allen II, Elana Greenfield

Brown University

Poetry: Sawako Nakayasu, Matthew Shenoda, Eleni Sikelianos, Cole Swensen Fiction: Colin Channer, Laird Hunt, Karan Mahajan, Jacinda Townsend Cross Disciplinary & Digital Language Arts: John Cayley, Thalia Field, Sawako Nakayasu

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What is an MFA Degree? What You Need to Know

Understanding the numbers When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

An MFA is a Master of Fine Arts, a graduate-level college degree earned by students who study and practice visual arts, performing arts, design or creative writing. Those who choose to pursue an MFA usually want to work in artistic professions and pursue careers as authors, editors, playwrights, dancers, actors, painters or sculptors. Others plan to teach at the college level.

If refining your art for personal purposes or professional gain interests you, you might consider advancing your education with an MFA degree.

What is the Difference Between a Master's and an MFA?

You may come across two different degree types as you research advanced programs focused on your preferred art form: Master of Arts  (MA) and the Master of Fine Arts (MFA). For instance, if you're interested in creative writing, you might need to choose between an MA in Creative Writing or an MFA in Creative Writing. There are several differences between an MA and an MFA  that you'll want to consider.

While both degree types can help you further explore and grow your talent, pursuing one over another might make the most sense for you.

How long it takes to finish is one factor. At Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), the MFA in Creative Writing is 48 credits, while the MA in Creative Writing  program is only 36 credits.

The professional weight of the credential is another factor. An MFA is considered a terminal degree , similar to professional degrees granted in other fields, such as the Doctor of Philosophy or the Doctor of Education, according to guidelines established by the College Art Association of America ( CAA ).

Types of MFA Concentrations

MFA programs span broad academic disciplines of art. These include:

• MFA in Creative Writing : fiction, nonfiction, poetry and screenwriting
• MFA in Design : graphic design and illustration
• MFA in Performing Arts : theatre arts, acting and directing
• MFA in Visual Arts : drawing, painting, illustration and sculpting

To be accepted into a program, you must have a bachelor’s degree . Typically, you’ll also be asked to furnish letters of recommendation, provide a strong personal statement and show samples of your work.

Top MFA Programs: What to Consider

There are more than 250 MFA in Creative Writing programs in the United States, according to the Poets & Writers database. Of those, 193 are full-residency and 59 are considered low-residency programs. Many online MFA programs have emerged in recent years, making an MFA even more attainable for career-changers and students with families.

If you are weighing the pros and cons of different MFA programs, the Authors Guild suggests you ask yourself these three important questions to ensure the best fit.

1. Do you want to attend part-time or full-time? MFA programs can take anywhere from a year to as long as four years to finish, although most take 2-3 years to complete. If you need to juggle work and family with your MFA program, you might consider programs that allow you to study part-time or online.

2. Where do you want to live? Even if you choose to study part-time, many MFA programs require students to take part in a residency. A residency is a period of study with other students either on campus or at a specific site. Residencies can be as short as a weekend or last several weeks. MFA programs offer both low-residency and high-residency options, although some can be completed entirely online with no travel necessary.

3. Do you want to teach? Some MFA programs require you to teach undergraduate classes if you are studying on a full scholarship, whereas others allow you to teach in exchange for a discounted tuition rate. The Poets & Writers MFA programs database identifies those programs that offer stipends, partial or full scholarships – and the teaching requirements necessary to receive MFA financial assistance. A program with a teaching component can give you valuable experience if you plan on teaching at the university level after you graduate.

While an MFA program’s ranking and reputation are important, who you study with and how you study are equally important.

Advantages of an Online MFA

"Nationwide, the MFA has been typically reserved for people of privilege, and the online program allows us to break that (mold) a little bit," Smith said. "Students can maintain work and family balance in their lives while they put in the hard work to pursue a dream."

Students enrolled in the online MFA in Creative Writing at SNHU still focus intensely on their writing but are not required to attend residencies. The program offers a greater exploration into the "business" of entering the publishing world, allowing you to fully understand how to market your writing and navigate the publishing ecosystem.

Learning strategies related to publishing, freelancing and building an effective online writer’s platform to attract your audience are all covered in the program, especially in the professional writing certificate path, one of two certificates the program offers. Those interested in teaching writing can choose to pursue the other graduate certificate focused on teaching creative writing online, which includes learning how to develop web-based courses and coach students virtually.

Online MFAs may also allow students to explore a wider range of fiction writing genres. For example, the online MFA in Creative Writing at SNHU encourages a focus on speculative fiction, young adult, fantasy and romance – opening the MFA to even more writers .

"One of the major benefits of the online MFA is that it helps you learn to communicate in an online space, and today's career authors need to know how to navigate their way through online communities and social media," Smith said.

Advantages of a Low-Residency MFA

You might choose a low-residency program if you want to join an intimate community of writers and have the flexibility to travel to scheduled in-person residencies each year.

In the Low-Residency MFA in Fiction and Nonfiction  program at SNHU, a cohort of about 16 students attend two, week-long residencies at the Mountainview Grand Resort in the White Mountains of New Hampshire each year of their 2-year program. There, they meet with one another, faculty and visiting authors to workshop their writing and hone their craft.

The low-residency program can give you a unique opportunity to have your work read and critiqued by your peers and other faculty twice a year, Nugent said.

While not in residency, students in the program work intensely on their writing from home, submitting 30 pages of work every five weeks. They are paired with faculty members who provide frequent, 1-on-1 feedback in the form of notes and phone calls.

The best part: No matter where you are in your life, a low-residency program allows you to participate in a rigorous program without having to move.

“We have a flexible enough writing schedule that will work with your daily commitments,” Nugent said.

The low-residency program helped MFA alumni, including David Moloney '17MFA and Nadia Owusu '17MFA , advance their writing careers.

Is an MFA a Good Degree?

Not only can an MFA program give you a structured space to hone your skills and receive feedback from peers and professionals, it can also help you advance your career.

Here are some careers MFA graduates – including those who specialize in creative writing and other fine arts – often focus on:

• Art director : If you have an eye for style and image, a career as an art director allows you to oversee publication layouts and movie and television productions. Art directors create the overall design of a project and direct others who develop artwork and layouts. While a bachelor’s degree is the entry-level requirement, some art directors earn an MFA to supplement their work experience and show their creative or managerial ability, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states. The median annual salary for art directors was $100,890 in 2021, with those in the motion picture and video industries earning median salaries of $137,380. Newspaper, periodical, book and directory publishers earned a median salary of $78,790. The field of art directors is expected to grow by 11% through 2030, faster than the average for all occupations, according to BLS.
• Editor : Thanks to the intense focus and creativity an MFA inspires, the degree more than prepares you for a variety of editing jobs that call on you to plan, review and revise content for print or digital publications. While employers only require that candidates have at least a bachelor’s degree in communication , journalism or English for entry-level jobs, more experience and education are often required for management jobs, according to BLS. The median annual wage for editors was $63,350 in 2021, and editors in the professional, scientific and technical services fields earned $78,270.
• Multimedia artists and animators : If you like to bring your images to life and pair your stories with action, a career as a multimedia artist or animator might appeal to you. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in animation, art or a related field, strong candidates must show both an impressive portfolio of work  and strong technical skills, BLS reports. Although an MFA is not required, it can help you develop the portfolio you need to show examples of your work to employers. The median annual wage for multimedia artists and animators was $78,790 in 2021, while those in the advertising and public relations industries earned an average of $87,540. Also, the multimedia artists and animators field is expected to grow by 16% through 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to BLS.
• Post-secondary teacher : Most post-secondary teachers work in public and private colleges and universities, professional schools and junior or community colleges. They may also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books. Like a doctorate, an MFA qualifies you to teach at the college level. The median annual salary for post-secondary teachers was $79,640 in 2021, English language and literature teachers made an average of $75,930. Overall employment of post-secondary teachers is projected to grow 12% through 2030.
• Writer or author : Whether you develop content for books, magazines, film scripts or the internet, today’s writers and authors write for all media. Although a bachelor’s degree is the entry-level requirement for most writing jobs, demonstrating frequent, published work is important for career advancement, according to BLS. The median annual salary for writers and authors was $69,510 in 2021.

Whether you choose to pursue an MFA to share your love of art with college students or nurture your talents, you can benefit from a degree program that helps foster discipline while it inspires creativity.

Discover more about SNHU's MFA in Creative Writing ; find out what courses you'll take, skills you'll learn and how to request information about the program.

Krysten Godfrey Maddocks ’11 is a writer and marketing/communication professional. Connect with her on LinkedIn . 

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Master of Fine Arts in Visual Art (MFA)

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The MFA program is dedicated to helping students understand both the making and theorizing of art against the background of the diverse intellectual environment of a major university, and within the context of local and international art communities. The MFA degree is also the standard qualifying degree for teaching visual arts at the post-secondary level. Most students are given the opportunity to teach foundation courses as Teaching Assistants, thus providing them valuable experience in visual arts instruction.

For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website

What makes the program unique?

Each MFA student receives his/her own private studio (approximately 250 square feet) and access to the department's extensive facilities including a state-of-the art Photo/Digital lab, Printmaking unit, and Workshop. MFAs participate in an intensive weekly studio seminar that is also a forum for critical discussions about leading issues in contemporary art, visual culture, and cultural theory. Students take additional academic coursework to enrich their particular focus, and present their Major Paper research and artwork to peers, faculty, and the public at their final oral presentation (occurring in the summer of their final year) and at a final critique (occurring during their graduation exhibition). Open Studios, interdepartmental critiques, and organised exhibitions showcase the students' art production and broaden their exposure to the local art scene and beyond.

Program Structure

The MFA Program requires two academic years of course work with completion of requirements occurring in no less than two calendar years and no more than five calendar years after initial registration in the program. The MFA Program can only be pursued on a full-time basis.

Students in the program may work in any area of contemporary art production including painting, drawing, printmaking, three-dimensional and installation work, photography, digital art, intermedia, video, performance, sound, or in any interdisciplinary form.

Quick Facts

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Join us online to learn more about UBC’s Faculty of Arts, its graduate programs and how to apply.

In this session, we’ll hear about some of the latest research and initiatives happening across UBC Arts as well as highlight some of the more than 80 graduate program options. We’ll learn how Arts graduate students create and disseminate knowledge in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Creative and Performing Arts through teaching, research, professional practice, artistic production, and performance.

We’ll also focus on applying to graduate school, outlining the grad school application process, and hearing advice and perspectives from our panel of Arts faculty members on making your grad school application as strong as possible. 

Admission Information & Requirements

1) check eligibility, minimum academic requirements.

The Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies establishes the minimum admission requirements common to all applicants, usually a minimum overall average in the B+ range (76% at UBC). The graduate program that you are applying to may have additional requirements. Please review the specific requirements for applicants with credentials from institutions in:

• Canada or the United States
• International countries other than the United States

Each program may set higher academic minimum requirements. Please review the program website carefully to understand the program requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission as it is a competitive process.

English Language Test

Applicants from a university outside Canada in which English is not the primary language of instruction must provide results of an English language proficiency examination as part of their application. Tests must have been taken within the last 24 months at the time of submission of your application.

Minimum requirements for the two most common English language proficiency tests to apply to this program are listed below:

TOEFL: Test of English as a Foreign Language - internet-based

Overall score requirement : 100

IELTS: International English Language Testing System

Overall score requirement : 7.0

Other Test Scores

Some programs require additional test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Test (GMAT). The requirements for this program are:

The GRE is not required.

Prior degree, course and other requirements

Prior degree requirements.

Applicants to the MFA in visual art normally hold a BFA, BA, or BEd degree with a major in studio arts.

2) Meet Deadlines

September 2024 intake, application open date, canadian applicants, international applicants, deadline explanations.

Deadline to submit online application. No changes can be made to the application after submission.

Deadline to upload scans of official transcripts through the applicant portal in support of a submitted application. Information for accessing the applicant portal will be provided after submitting an online application for admission.

Deadline for the referees identified in the application for admission to submit references. See Letters of Reference for more information.

3) Prepare Application

Transcripts.

All applicants have to submit transcripts from all past post-secondary study. Document submission requirements depend on whether your institution of study is within Canada or outside of Canada.

Letters of Reference

A minimum of three references are required for application to graduate programs at UBC. References should be requested from individuals who are prepared to provide a report on your academic ability and qualifications.

Statement of Interest

Many programs require a statement of interest , sometimes called a "statement of intent", "description of research interests" or something similar.

Supervision

Course-based programs do not have a thesis component. While they may assign academic advisors to students, they do not require applicants to reach out to individual professors / faculty members to seek commitment as their thesis supervisor. Please do not contact faculty members for the purposes of thesis supervision if you are applying to this program.

Citizenship Verification

Permanent Residents of Canada must provide a clear photocopy of both sides of the Permanent Resident card.

4) Apply Online

All applicants must complete an online application form and pay the application fee to be considered for admission to UBC.

Tuition & Financial Support

Financial support.

Applicants to UBC have access to a variety of funding options.

Employer support

Organizations may provide their employees with tuition benefits as part of an employment package to support lifelong learning of their workforce.

Scholarships & awards (merit-based funding)

Professional / course-based programs usually do not provide merit-based funding. Some programs may offer bursaries.

Financial aid (need-based funding)

Canadian and US applicants may qualify for governmental loans to finance their studies. Please review eligibility and types of loans .

All students may be able to access private sector or bank loans.

Foreign government scholarships

Many foreign governments provide support to their citizens in pursuing education abroad. International applicants should check the various governmental resources in their home country, such as the Department of Education, for available scholarships.

Working while studying

The possibility to pursue work to supplement income may depend on the demands the program has on students. It should be carefully weighed if work leads to prolonged program durations or whether work placements can be meaningfully embedded into a program.

International students enrolled as full-time students with a valid study permit can work on campus for unlimited hours and work off-campus for no more than 20 hours a week.

A good starting point to explore student jobs is the UBC Work Learn program or a Co-Op placement .

Tax credits and RRSP withdrawals

Students with taxable income in Canada may be able to claim federal or provincial tax credits.

Canadian residents with RRSP accounts may be able to use the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP) which allows students to withdraw amounts from their registered retirement savings plan (RRSPs) to finance full-time training or education for themselves or their partner.

Please review Filing taxes in Canada on the student services website for more information.

Cost Calculator

Applicants have access to the cost calculator to develop a financial plan that takes into account various income sources and expenses.

Enrolment, Duration & Other Stats

These statistics show data for the Master of Fine Arts in Visual Art (MFA). Data are separated for each degree program combination. You may view data for other degree options in the respective program profile.

ENROLMENT DATA

Completion rates & times, related programs, same academic unit.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Art History (PhD)
• Master of Arts in Art History (Critical Curatorial Studies) (MA)
• Master of Arts in Art History (MA)

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Further Information

Specialization.

The program provides a period of intensive conceptual and technical development for those students wishing to pursue a professional career in advanced contemporary art. The M.F.A. degree is also the standard qualifying degree for teaching visual arts at the post-secondary level. The M.F.A. program is dedicated to helping students understand both the making and theorizing of the art object against the background of the diverse intellectual environment of a major university. Students in the program may work in any area of contemporary art production including painting, drawing, printmaking, performance, three-dimensional and installation work, photography, digital, multimedia, or in any interdisciplinary form.

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Departments/Programs may update graduate degree program details through the Faculty & Staff portal. To update contact details for application inquiries, please use this form .

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Studio Art: MFA

Graduate Program in Art, Art History, and Design

Program Handbook

The graduate program in the Department of Art, Art History, and Design is a multidimensional program in which students engage in studio art, design, or art history, with concentrations available within each discipline. Students in the program develop visual literacy and the skills to conceptualize, fabricate, and evaluate works of art through coursework and a system of independent studies tailored to individual interests. The program aims to prepare students for professional practice as artists, designers, art history scholars, and arts educators.

Verified: 08/23/2023

• GRE General Test recommended but not required
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for non-native speakers of English
• Curriculum vitae
• Official transcripts from each post-secondary institution; one must show conferral of a bachelor's degree. (Due upon enrollment)
• Statement of intent
• Three letters of recommendation
• Portfolio - refer to program site for details
• Unofficial transcripts from each post-secondary institution required at the time of application. (Official transcript showing conferral of a bachelor's degree due upon enrollment.)

Jason Lahr Director of Graduate Studies Phone: (574) 631-7602 Email: [email protected]

https://artdept.nd.edu/graduate/