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 access an immersive, 60-credit-hour experience to refine their technical skills and cultivate a strong artistic voice. The program emphasizes intensive studio work, interdisciplinary approaches, and the exploration of contemporary issues in art.

Our curriculum promotes connections between traditional techniques and modern media, with faculty providing individualized guidance. Students may engage in a community-focused art class, offering practical applications of their practice while benefiting 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 Fort Hays State University is a uniquely personalized program that encourages each student to cultivate a distinct artistic identity. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all structure, the curriculum revolves around the individual's interests and creative goals.

The program’s affordability is one of its key strengths, offering competitive tuition rates and a lower cost of living without sacrificing access to top-tier resources. Students benefit from brand-new studios and facilities that support a wide range of media, from drawing and painting to mixed-media exploration.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program is ideal for artists seeking to expand their conceptual framework, refine technical skills, and prepare for professional practice. Whether aspiring to teach, exhibit nationally, or work in community arts, students will find a flexible program tailored to various career goals:

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) prepares students to become thought leaders and innovators in the visual arts. Through rigorous study, collaboration, and real-world applications, graduates will emerge with the confidence and skills necessary to pursue diverse professional pathways in fine arts and related industries.

Mastery of Artistic Media and Techniques

Students demonstrate expert-level proficiency in drawing and painting media by producing original artwork consistently. Students build a portfolio reflecting craftsmanship and innovation through problem-solving exercises and individual projects.

Critical and Contextual Understanding

Graduates evaluate their work in historical, theoretical, and cultural contexts. Participation in critiques and class discussions will help students refine their analytical skills and develop an informed artistic voice.

Professional Practice and Presentation

Students gain experience in curating, installing, and defending their work in a public forum by organizing and presenting a solo exhibition. We emphasize developing professional documents, such as resumes, grant proposals, teaching philosophies, and marketing materials.

Community and Teaching Engagement

Students gain experience in community outreach, teaching, and collaborative art making. Opportunities to lead workshops or mentor undergraduates help prepare them for roles in education and social practice. These experiences will empower students to use their creative talents to foster dialogue, inclusion, and change within various communities.

Real-World Applications

We strongly emphasize applying artistic skills beyond the classroom. Students develop work for exhibitions, grant applications, community art initiatives, and teaching roles. They also gain practical experience interacting with audiences, gallery professionals, and other artists through field trips, conference participation, and juried exhibitions.

Graduate teaching assistantships offer students financial support and crucial classroom experience transferable to higher education and arts education careers. Community-engaged coursework further enriches students' real-world experience by involving them in art projects that serve public interests and foster social change.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying current with contemporary trends is fundamental to the success of any Master of Fine Arts program, and Fort Hays State University integrates cutting-edge developments into every level of the curriculum. Our program includes research in digital illustration, material sustainability, and socially engaged art.

Specialized courses encourage the exploration of art that addresses issues, such as environmental justice, equity, and digital communication. Students explore interdisciplinary projects and blend traditional media with emerging technology.

Hands-on Activities

Experiential learning is a central part of the program, offering students extensive hands-on opportunities. Students present a professional solo exhibition as part of their final thesis, allowing them to showcase their vision, skill set, and conceptual maturity. In addition, multiple opportunities for smaller exhibitions, collaborative shows, and critique-based presentations occur throughout the program.

Off-campus engagement includes trips to cities like Kansas City, New York, and Chicago, as well as participation in national conferences, such as the College Art Association (CAA). Students also gain practical skills by assisting with gallery operations and applying to 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 consists of a 60-credit-hour curriculum that balances foundational technique with individualized exploration. Students take a core group of studio and art history courses alongside a broad array of electives that allow them to explore areas of interest.

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

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 of the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program take on various roles in education, professional practice, arts administration, and community engagement. The skills developed during the program offer a competitive edge in multiple settings where visual literacy and creative leadership are key.

Professional Artist

Graduates often work independently or through galleries and public commissions to create and sell original artworks. Their training equips them to showcase work in solo and group exhibitions nationally and internationally. Many participate in artist residencies that provide space, funding, and exposure in the United States and abroad.

Art Educator

Teaching at the university or community college level is a common path. Graduates equipped with teaching assistantship experience are ready for full-time faculty positions. Others pursue careers as K-12 educators whose strong studio background supports art curriculum delivery.

Curator or Gallery Manager

Those interested in arts management often find roles in museums and galleries, where they curate exhibitions, oversee programming, and engage in community outreach. Their exhibition planning experience during the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) prepares them to manage complex art presentations and gallery operations.

Community Arts Coordinator

Graduates with a passion for community engagement pursue careers in nonprofit arts organizations. These roles involve designing art programming that reflects the needs of specific populations, organizing public installations, and fostering inclusivity in the arts.

Art Therapist (With Further Credentials)

The emotional and conceptual depth of fine arts training lends itself to therapeutic professions. Many graduates continue their education to meet licensure requirements and go on to work in healthcare or counseling settings, using art to support 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. We require a minimum of 36 undergraduate credit hours in art, including at least 10 credit hours in a studio concentration. The program recommends a GPA of 3.0 or higher on the last 60 undergraduate credit hours.

Application Materials

Students must submit a completed application to the FHSU Graduate School along with the following documents:

Official Transcripts

Students must forward all academic records from previous institutions.

Three Letters of Recommendation

These should be from individuals who are able to assess the applicant’s artistic abilities and potential for success in graduate study.

Statement of Purpose

This document should outline the applicant’s artistic interests, motivations for pursuing the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting), and intended areas of concentration.

Portfolio

Submit 20 digital images of recent work labeled with title, media, size, and date. Include a PDF slideshow and an image identification sheet.

Resume or CV

Include exhibition records, awards, professional activities, and work experience in the arts.

Application Deadline

Students must submit all application materials by February 1 for a summer or fall start date. Applicants may have to complete additional undergraduate coursework in case of deficiencies, as determined by the admissions committee.

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

Fort Hays State University offers a suite of related graduate and undergraduate programs that allow for cross-disciplinary interests and broader preparation in the arts and education. These programs complement the Master of Fine Arts (Drawing-Painting) program and allow for 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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