Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting)
Hours: 60 On-Campus
About
Artists pursuing the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program at Fort Hays State University engage in an immersive 60-credit-hour curriculum designed to enhance their technical abilities and develop a distinctive artistic voice. The program prioritizes rigorous studio practice, interdisciplinary exploration, and critical engagement with contemporary art issues.
The curriculum fosters a dialogue between traditional techniques and modern media, supported by faculty who offer personalized mentorship. Additionally, students have an opportunity to participate in community-oriented art classes, applying their skills in real-world contexts while contributing to local organizations.
Why pursue a Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) at Fort Hays State University?
The Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program offers a highly personalized experience, encouraging each student to develop a unique artistic identity. The program offers a flexible, personalized curriculum designed to reflect each student’s unique artistic interests and creative aspirations.
A notable strength of the program is its affordability, combining competitive tuition rates with a low cost of living, all while maintaining access to exceptional resources. Students have access to newly designed studios and facilities that accommodate a diverse array of media, including drawing, painting, and mixed-media exploration.
Who is this program for?
The program is designed for artists aiming to broaden their conceptual framework, sharpen their technical skills, and prepare for professional careers. Whether students aspire to teach, exhibit nationally, or engage in community arts, the program offers a flexible curriculum tailored to support a wide range of career objectives.
- Artists seeking advanced studio training
- Graduates pursuing teaching careers in higher education
- Professionals interested in community-engaged art
- Applicants applying for competitive artist residencies and exhibitions
- Practicing educators who want to deepen their studio practices
Real-World Applications
The program places strong emphasis on applying artistic skills beyond the classroom. Students create work for exhibitions, grant applications, community art initiatives, and teaching positions. They also gain practical experience engaging with audiences, gallery professionals, and fellow artists through field trips, conference participation, and juried exhibitions.
Graduate teaching assistantships provide financial support while offering valuable classroom experience, preparing students for careers in higher education and arts instruction. Additionally, community-engaged coursework enhances real-world learning by involving students in art projects that address public interests and promote social change.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University stays at the forefront of contemporary art by integrating current trends and practices throughout the curriculum. Research areas include digital illustration, material sustainability, and socially engaged art, ensuring students engage with the evolving landscape of the visual arts.
Specialized courses encourage students to explore themes including environmental justice, equity, and digital communication. Through interdisciplinary projects, students blend traditional media with emerging technologies, fostering innovative artistic practices.
Hands-on Activities
Experiential learning is a central component of the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting), offering students extensive hands-on opportunities throughout the program. As part of their final thesis, students present a professional solo exhibition that showcases their artistic vision, technical expertise, and conceptual growth. Along the way, they also take part in smaller exhibitions, collaborative shows, and critique-based presentations.
Off-campus experiences include visits to major art centers such as Kansas City, New York, and Chicago, as well as participation in national conferences like the College Art Association (CAA). Students also gain practical experience by assisting with gallery operations and applying for artist residencies and grants.
What You’ll Learn:
- Master technical media and processes
- Explore thematic and conceptual development
- Write professional artist statements
- Research historical and contemporary influences
- Present art in a professional exhibition
- Receive critical feedback and analyze art
How You’ll Learn:
- Studio time with dedicated faculty mentoring
- Collaborative critiques and feedback sessions
- Community-engaged art projects
- Research and writing for artist statement
- Field trips and gallery visits
The Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) is a 60-credit-hour program that balances foundational techniques with individualized artistic exploration. Students complete a core sequence of studio and art history courses, supported by a broad selection of electives that allow them to pursue their unique interests and creative direction.
Courses are designed to challenge students both conceptually and technically, with an emphasis on areas such as figurative representation, abstraction, material sustainability, and socially engaged practices, fostering well-rounded and meaningful artistic growth.
ART 825: Problems: Painting II
Research and experimentation in painting as a major or minor concentration.
ART 815: Problems: Drawing II: Mark Making and Abstraction
Research and experimentation in drawing as a major or minor concentration.
ART 889: Concepts of Art
In-depth study of philosophical concepts of art and the development of a concise view of creativity.
Discover the full Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates pursue diverse careers in education, professional practice, arts administration, and community engagement. The skills cultivated throughout the program provide a competitive advantage in a variety of fields where visual literacy and creative leadership are essential.
Professional Artist
Graduates often work independently or with galleries and public commissions to create and sell original artworks. Their training prepares them to exhibit nationally and internationally, and many participate in residencies that provide studio space, funding, and exposure.
Art Educator
Art educators inspire creativity and critical thinking in K–12 classrooms. They bring a strong foundation in studio practice, art history, and pedagogy to public and private schools. Many pursue teaching certification through additional coursework or graduate study, equipping them for meaningful and rewarding careers in art education.
Curator or Gallery Manager
Curators or gallery managers curate exhibitions, oversee programming, and lead community outreach efforts. Their MFA experience equips them with the skills needed to manage complex exhibitions, coordinate gallery operations, and engage diverse audiences.
Community Arts Coordinator
Community arts coordinators play a vital role in using the arts to foster connection and inclusivity. Often working with nonprofit organizations, they design programs for specific populations, organize public art installations, and promote access and equity in the arts.
Art Therapist (With Further Credentials)
The conceptual depth of fine arts training supports careers in art therapy. Many graduates pursue further education to obtain licensure and work in healthcare or counseling, using art to promote mental and emotional well-being.
Applicants to the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) at Fort Hays State University must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, preferably in art or a related field. A minimum of 36 undergraduate credit hours in art is required, including at least 10 credit hours in a studio concentration. A GPA of 3.0 or higher in the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework is recommended.
Application Materials
Applicants must submit a completed application to the FHSU Graduate School, accompanied by the following documents:
Official Transcripts
Applicants are required to submit official academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Three Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to assess their artistic skills and potential for success in graduate studies.
Statement of Purpose
Applicants should submit a statement of purpose that clearly articulates their artistic interests, reasons for pursuing the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting), and intended areas of focus.
Portfolio
Applicants must submit 20 digital images of recent work, each labeled with the title, media, size, and date. The submission should include a PDF slideshow and an image identification sheet.
Resume or CV
The resume or CV should include exhibition records, awards, professional activities, and work experience related to the arts.
Application Deadline
All application materials must be submitted by February 1 for admission in the summer or fall term. Applicants may be required to complete additional undergraduate coursework if the admissions committee identifies any deficiencies.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,559.42* (on-campus) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
FHSU offers a range of related graduate and undergraduate programs designed to support cross-disciplinary interests and provide comprehensive preparation in the arts and education. These programs complement the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting), enabling extended professional development in theory, practice, and pedagogy.
- Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media)
- Master of Fine Arts (Graphic Design)
- Master of Fine Arts (Printmaking)
- Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BA Degree)
- Certificate in Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree)
Careers include professional artists, art educators, curators, gallery managers, and community arts coordinators.
Graduate teaching assistantships provide real classroom experience, offering chances to assist or lead undergraduate art courses.
Faculty mentorship, exhibition opportunities, and critique-based coursework help students refine and present professional-level portfolios.
Students can apply for research funding, teaching assistantships, and travel grants to help offset costs.
The intensive nature of the on-campus program requires strong time management. Still, many students balance part-time work or assistantships effectively.
Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts
The School of Visual and Performing Arts at FHSU inspires creativity within a supportive and passionate community. Each program in Art and Design, along with Music and Theatre, offers students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether students aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, expert faculty provide hands-on learning experiences that both inspire and challenge.
With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, students gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their chosen fields. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, these programs equip students with the tools to make a lasting impact in the world of visual and performing arts.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
- Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
- Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
- FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
- Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
- Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
- Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
- Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a partnership between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, FHSU students, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK). Schmierbach and the students lead workshops for DSNWK individuals, offering structured art experiences focused on weaving, drawing, and photography. The project aims to expand access to the arts within the Hays community, creating more opportunities for individuals to engage with and benefit from artistic expression.
- Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all students regardless of experience, the club offers opportunities to explore art movements, artists, and various forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for the arts, the club also connects members with influential figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills such as curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, the club cultivates a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
- Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
- Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
- Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
- Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, training, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
- Music Theatre: Participate in a fully realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- On-Campus
