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 at FHSU offers a highly personalized experience, encouraging each student to develop a unique artistic identity. Rather than following a standardized curriculum, the program is customized to reflect each student’s unique interests and creative goals.

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 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

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program prepares students to become thought leaders and innovators within the visual arts. Through rigorous study, collaborative opportunities, and practical experience, graduates develop the confidence and skills needed to pursue a wide range of professional careers in fine arts and related fields.

Mastery of Artistic Media and Techniques

Students achieve expert-level proficiency in drawing and painting by consistently creating original artwork. Through problem-solving exercises and individual projects, they develop portfolios that showcase both technical skill and creative innovation.

Critical and Contextual Understanding

Graduates critically assess their work within historical, theoretical, and cultural frameworks. Active participation in critiques and class discussions sharpens their analytical skills and fosters the development of a well-informed artistic voice.

Professional Practice and Presentation

Students acquire hands-on experience in curating, installing, and presenting their work through the organization of solo exhibitions. The program also emphasizes the development of essential professional documents, including resumes, grant proposals, teaching philosophies, and marketing materials.

Community and Teaching Engagement

Students develop experience in community outreach, teaching, and collaborative artmaking. Opportunities to lead workshops and mentor undergraduates prepare them for careers in education and social practice. These experiences empower students to use their creative talents to promote dialogue, inclusion, and positive change within diverse communities.

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

Staying current with contemporary trends is essential to the success of any Master of Fine Arts program, and Fort Hays State University integrates the latest developments throughout its curriculum. The program incorporates research in areas such as digital illustration, material sustainability, and socially engaged art.

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 core component of the program, providing students with extensive hands-on opportunities. As part of their final thesis, students present a professional solo exhibition that highlights their artistic vision, technical skills, and conceptual development. Throughout the program, they also participate in smaller exhibitions, collaborative shows, and critique-based presentations.

Off-campus engagement includes visits to cities such as Kansas City, New York, and Chicago, along with participation in national conferences like the College Art Association (CAA). Students further develop practical skills by assisting with gallery operations and applying for 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

Courses

The Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program features a 60-credit-hour curriculum that balances foundational techniques with personalized artistic exploration. Students complete a core set of studio and art history courses, complemented by a wide range of electives that enable them to pursue their individual interests.

Key courses include Surface and Space, Problems – Figurative Forms, Community-Engaged Art, and several problem-based studies focused on abstraction, sustainability, and materials. These courses challenge students both conceptually and technically, fostering comprehensive 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.

Career Prospects

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

Many graduates pursue teaching careers at the university or community college level, supported by experience gained through teaching assistantships. Others become K-12 educators, drawing on their strong studio backgrounds to enhance art instruction.

Curator or Gallery Manager

Graduates pursuing arts management often work in museums and galleries, curating exhibitions, overseeing programming, and leading community outreach. Their MFA experience prepares them to handle complex exhibitions and manage gallery operations.

Community Arts Coordinator

Graduates passionate about community engagement often work in nonprofit arts organizations, designing programs tailored to specific populations, organizing public installations, and promoting inclusivity 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.

Admission Requirements

Applicants 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. The program recommends a GPA of 3.0 or higher for the last 60 undergraduate credit hours.

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

These must provide three letters of recommendation from individuals qualified to evaluate their artistic skills and potential for success in graduate studies.

Statement of Purpose

The statement should clearly articulate the applicant’s 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.

Apply

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.

FAQ

What kind of careers can this Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program prepare me for?

Careers include professional artists, art educators, curators, gallery managers, and community arts coordinators.

What type of teaching experience will I receive during the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program?

Graduate teaching assistantships provide real classroom experience, offering chances to assist or lead undergraduate art courses.

How are students supported in developing their portfolios?

Faculty mentorship, exhibition opportunities, and critique-based coursework help students refine and present professional-level portfolios.

Are there funding options available for graduate students?

Students can apply for research funding, teaching assistantships, and travel grants to help offset costs.

Can I work while enrolled in the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program?

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

At FHSU’s School of Visual and Performing Arts, creativity thrives in a supportive and passionate community. Our programs in Art, Design, Music, and Theatre offer students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether you aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, our expert faculty provides hands-on learning experiences that inspire and challenge you.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your chosen field. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, our programs equip you with the tools to make your mark in the world of visual and performing arts.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

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 collaboration between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, students of FHSU, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas. Schmierbach and students are providing workshops to the DSNWK individuals to provide structured art experiences centered around weaving, drawing, and photography. The goal of this project is to expand the arts in the Hays community to help reach more individuals, specifically creating more opportunities in the arts.
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, regardless of expertise, the club provides opportunities for members to explore art movements, artists, and forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of the arts, the club also connects members with key figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills like curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, we cultivate 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, trainings, 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.

Drawing and Painting

Bachelor's
Master's

On-Campus

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