Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media)

Master's

Hours: 62 On-Campus Online

About

The Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program at Fort Hays State University is a customizable and innovative program that emphasizes blending media and disciplines. Inter-Media students can work across diverse studio areas, including sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photography, drawing, painting, and digital media.

Rather than focusing on a single medium, the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program integrates various forms of visual arts into a unified curriculum. Our program supports individual artistic development through mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and critical dialogue, allowing students to explore established and new creative expression forms.

Why pursue a Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) at Fort Hays State University?

The Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program is distinguished by its exceptional flexibility and interdisciplinary focus. The program offers a fully customizable curriculum that integrates graphic design, drawing and painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, photography, and new media, encouraging artistic innovation and cross-disciplinary exploration.

Students have access to experienced faculty who mentor across disciplines, creating a collaborative, cross-medium learning environment. The ability to take courses in other graduate school areas — both within and outside the art and design programs — allows for a tailor-made education, differentiating the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program further from others.

Who is this program for?

The Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) is available for visual artists who want to expand their creative practices across disciplines. It is ideal for individuals looking to combine media and explore new forms while building a professional art career or preparing for roles in higher education. Those passionate about interdisciplinary creation and who value concept and technique will find this program particularly rewarding:

Practicing artists seeking advanced study
Educators pursuing professional development
Designers expanding into performance or video art
Creative professionals seeking to teach at the university level
Individuals interested in digital and time-based media

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) provides advanced expertise in creating, analyzing, and presenting visual artwork across multiple platforms and contexts. Students learn to function as professional artists, educators, and leaders in the visual arts community.

Professional Practice and Media Mastery

Students construct creative work that demonstrates high professional mastery over various media, including selecting appropriate materials, executing technically refined processes, and applying original thought to visual problems. Ultimately, students showcase their skills in an individualized artistic voice.

Thematic Unity and Conceptual Depth

Graduates produce work that reflects a unified conceptual focus. Each student's thesis must present a well-researched and articulated theme, expressed through visual and written formats, reinforcing the connection between creative production and intellectual inquiry.

Critical Evaluation in Art Contexts

Students develop the ability to critically evaluate their work and the work of others in both historical and contemporary contexts. It includes understanding movements, trends, and theories influencing visual arts and applying this understanding to artistic decision-making.

Leadership in Education and Presentation

Graduates demonstrate the ability to organize and lead workshops or classes, manage studio environments, and present their work in public venues effectively. Students also create marketing materials and professional documents that express their creative identity in ways that appeal to galleries, clients, and institutions.

Real-World Applications

The Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) prepares students for professional careers through a curriculum emphasizing studio art with significant development, research, and public presentation. Through exhibitions, internships, and national conference participation, students access real-world opportunities to display their artwork and receive professional feedback.

Students learn through art making, from conceptual development to execution and critique, culminating in a solo thesis exhibition. Professional practices, such as artist statement writing, gallery relations, studio management, and teaching assistantships, are available throughout the program.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Staying relevant in a rapidly evolving creative field requires engagement with emerging tools and ideas. The latest development in digital media, time-based media, and experimental processes is incorporated into the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) curriculum.

Workshops, lectures from visiting artists, and opportunities to attend national conferences in digital and performance art provide further insight into current artistic trends. The thesis process, which demands a year of research and production, allows students to explore new forms and methods while responding to contemporary issues in the visual arts.

Hands-on Activities

Hands-on, immersive experiences are central to the MFA in Inter-Media. Students engage in visual arts production through advanced studio courses and interdisciplinary collaboration. Access to 24-hour facilities enables continuous experimentation with media, such as painting, sculpture, print media, photography, video art, and installation.

Students also participate in design workshops, critiques, and exhibitions that simulate real-world professional environments. As part of their graduate study, students may assist faculty, lead workshops, and even teach courses — an invaluable preparation for educational roles. Our program's structure ensures that every student fully participates in art making, from research to public presentation.

What You’ll Learn:

Integration of traditional and digital media
Development of a cohesive artistic vision
Mastery in research-based art production
Theory and practice in contemporary art forms
Professional preparation in visual arts careers
Presentation and critique of creative work

How You’ll Learn:

Collaborative interdisciplinary studio projects
Access to 24/7 digital and fine arts labs
Portfolio and exhibition-based evaluations
Real-world project and conference engagement
Applied courses in teaching and leadership
Faculty mentorship in thesis and research

Courses

The core curriculum in the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) is intentionally broad to promote integration across multiple disciplines. Students complete 37 credit hours within their chosen concentration(s), allowing for a deep exploration of form, material, and method. In addition, 12 credit hours in Art History and Aesthetics give students essential theoretical and contextual grounding.

Major topics covered include studio practices in painting, printmaking, photography, digital media, and performance art. We emphasize building technical skills and conceptual frameworks simultaneously. The final thesis, consisting of a solo exhibition, written analysis, and oral defense, is a capstone demonstrating mastery in their field and the ability to synthesize diverse influences and media. As students progress through the MFA (Inter-Media) program, they can choose from various elective courses in specialized disciplines. For example, students interested in working with ceramics or sculpture would take the following classes:

ART 875: Graduate Topics in Art: Figurative Sculpture

Subjects in art which are not dealt with in the regular curriculum. Graduate-level work expected.

ART 865: Problems: Ceramics II

Research and experimentation in ceramics 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 (Inter-Media) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program from Fort Hays State University can pursue a wide range of careers that value creativity, interdisciplinary knowledge, and visual communication. Their ability to work across media makes them adaptable professionals, well-suited for traditional and emerging roles in the arts and creative industries.

Visual Artist

Graduates can become practicing visual artists specializing in multiple media, exhibiting their work in galleries and museums. Their portfolios often include painting, video, installation, and performance, demonstrating a broad skill set that allows them to thrive in commercial and fine art environments.

College or University Art Instructor

Many alumni secure teaching positions at colleges and universities. Their interdisciplinary knowledge allows them to instruct across several media areas while contributing to curriculum development and academic mentorship.

Creative Director

Graduates may work as creative directors overseeing visual storytelling and brand identity in advertising, film, or digital content industries. Their ability to conceptualize and execute across digital and traditional platforms provides a unique advantage in these leadership roles.

Multimedia Artist

Multimedia artists combine video, sound, performance, and animation and find employment in creative agencies, film studios, or as independent creators. They produce engaging, time-based media works that are increasingly in demand across the entertainment and digital communication sectors.

Gallery Manager or Arts Administrator

Graduates may also find rewarding careers in gallery management, curating exhibitions, overseeing collections, or administering art programs. Their professional training in studio practices and art history supports a strong foundation for leadership roles in nonprofit and commercial art institutions.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a related field and demonstrate a minimum 3.0 GPA in their last 60 undergraduate credit hours. Students must submit academic transcripts for verification.

Portfolio Submission

Students must submit a digital portfolio that contains 15–20 pieces of recent work. The portfolio must show creative originality, technical ability, and alignment with the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program.

Statement of Intent

A one- or two-page written statement must outline the applicant's goals for graduate study, personal artistic direction, and reasons for choosing the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) at Fort Hays State University.

Letters of Recommendation

Students should submit two letters of recommendation. At least one must be from a faculty member familiar with the applicant's academic or artistic capabilities.

Interview (if requested)

We may ask some candidates to participate in an interview with faculty to assess fitness and readiness for further graduate-level work.

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) or $3,139.02* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at the Graduate resident/regional tuition rate ($284.38/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Graduate tuition rate (348.78/credit hour) for online 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

Students interested in the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program may also enjoy exploring other Fort Hays State University graduate and undergraduate offerings. These programs often intersect with Inter-Media themes and practices, supporting a holistic education in the visual arts and related disciplines:

FAQ

What facilities and resources are available to students?

Students gain access to fine art studios, computer labs, design software, video and photo equipment, and 24-hour studio spaces.

How does the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program stay current with trends in art and technology?

Courses integrate new forms like video art and time-based media, and students attend national design conferences and workshops.

What should students prepare for the thesis exhibition?

We require a cohesive body of work, a written statement, and an oral defense presented in a solo public exhibition.

Can students gain teaching experience during the Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) program?

Students may serve as graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) and lead workshops in their concentration areas.

What types of careers can I pursue with a Master of Fine Arts (Inter-Media) degree?

Career options include visual artist, university instructor, multimedia designer, gallery manager, creative director, and more.

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.

Inter-Media

Master's

On-Campus
Online

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