Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture)

Hours: 60 On-Campus

About

The Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) program offers students a comprehensive education in both fine arts and advanced fabrication techniques. As part of a nationally recognized graduate program, participants benefit from dedicated studio space and full access to a cutting-edge sculpture facility. The program is guided by a committed core faculty and features a curriculum that promotes interdisciplinary exploration across various visual arts disciplines. Fort Hays State University's renowned expertise in foundry practices also draws top-tier students from other leading sculpture programs, further enriching the academic environment.

Why pursue a Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) at Fort Hays State University?

The Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) is a leading choice for students dedicated to both traditional and contemporary sculptural practices. The program offers an immersive, hands-on experience through one of the most extensive university-based iron casting operations in the country. Students also benefit from access to state-of-the-art fabrication shops that provide practical training in techniques ranging from 3D printing to advanced blacksmithing.

A distinctive feature of the program is its integration with the Department of Applied Technology, which exposes students to advanced processes such as CNC machining, digital drafting, and plastic fabrication. The curriculum is designed to cultivate technical proficiency, foster creative exploration, and deepen critical engagement with visual and contemporary art—preparing graduates for a dynamic and well-rounded professional practice.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for highly motivated artists seeking to advance their sculptural practice professionally. Ideal for those passionate about mastering materials and processes, the program supports the development of a strong conceptual foundation. It is especially beneficial for individuals pursuing careers in fine arts, education, fabrication, or public art.

Artists committed to advanced sculpture techniques
Educators seeking qualifications for university-level teaching
Professionals aiming for leadership in arts organizations
Creative individuals focused on international exhibition opportunities
Sculptors interested in the fabrication and foundry industries

Learning Outcomes

The Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) program equips students to become accomplished professionals in the visual arts. Emphasizing both technical mastery and conceptual development, the curriculum fosters critical thinking, self-reflection, and creative growth.

Assemble a Professional Portfolio

Students develop a professional portfolio that showcases creative vision, technical skill, and sculptural proficiency. Each portfolio is thematically cohesive and tailored for use in professional exhibitions and academic job applications.

Construct Master-Level Creative Work

Graduates produce a cohesive body of creative work that demonstrates mastery of chosen media, combining technical excellence with conceptual depth. Their final thesis must meet professional standards and withstand critical evaluation in public exhibitions.

Evaluate Historical and Contemporary Art

Students critically assess their own work and that of others within historical and contemporary art contexts. This process deepens their understanding of how individual creative practices connect to broader artistic traditions and current trends in the visual arts.

Develop Studio Management and Teaching Expertise

Students gain practical experience in studio leadership by conducting workshops, managing shared studio environments, and designing curriculum plans. These experiences prepare graduates to teach sculpture at the collegiate level and to independently operate professional art studios.

Real-World Applications

Graduates pursuing the Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) gain valuable experience in dynamic, real-world environments. The curriculum integrates studio practice with industry collaboration, preparing students to work confidently in art foundries, independent studios, public art initiatives, and fabrication facilities.

Strategic partnerships with organizations such as Art Castings of Colorado offer hands-on experience in professional settings. Additionally, outreach programs help students build leadership skills, organize exhibitions, and manage sculpture projects for diverse audiences.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum incorporates the latest advancements in both traditional and digital fabrication techniques. Students gain hands-on experience with CNC cutting, 3D printing, digital sculpting, and the integration of emerging materials, while continuing to refine timeless practices such as foundry casting and blacksmithing.

Regular updates to the curriculum, informed by industry trends and evolving fabrication technologies, ensure that graduates are equipped to meet—and shape—contemporary standards in sculpture and fine arts.

Hands-on Activities

Experiential learning is a core component of the Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) program, offering students immersive opportunities to apply theory through hands-on practice. Activities such as operating iron casting furnaces, forging blacksmithing tools, and designing gallery installations challenge students to engage deeply with materials, techniques, and creative problem-solving.

Regionally, the traveling foundry and blacksmith shop enables students to lead community workshops, gaining valuable experience in leadership, teaching, and project management—skills that significantly enhance professional readiness upon graduation.

What You’ll Learn:

Master fabrication techniques and processes
Develop creative work and critical ideas
Understand contemporary art and history
Engage in group critiques and studio visits
Gain teaching and studio management skills

How You’ll Learn:

Hands-on studio projects and critiques
Direct mentorship from core faculty
Access to visiting and guest artists
Real-world foundry and blacksmithing practices
Participation in international art residencies

Courses

The core curriculum blends foundational studio coursework with applied, project-based learning, emphasizing the creative process, material experimentation, and technical mastery. Students engage in research-driven projects, intensive studio critiques, and interdisciplinary studies that deepen their conceptual and technical understanding of sculpture as a contemporary art form.

Through integration with the Department of Applied Technology, graduates gain expertise in both historical and cutting-edge fabrication techniques, preparing them for professional careers or advanced study in higher education.

ART 835: Problems: Sculpture II

Research and experimentation in sculpture as a major or minor concentration.

ART 875: Graduate Topics in Art: Figurative Sculpture

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

ART 870: Graduate Workshop: Blacksmithing

Investigation of materials, projects, and methods for the classroom with emphasis on experimentation. Graduate-level work expected.

Discover the full Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates enter the field with a strong professional foundation for diverse careers in the fine arts and creative industries. They possess advanced technical skills, conceptual depth, and leadership experience—key qualifications for success in an evolving and competitive job market.

Studio Artist

Studio artists often pursue independent practices, creating and exhibiting original sculptural works. They manage their own studios, market their art, accept commissions, and participate in exhibitions at both national and international levels.

Foundry Specialist

Foundry specialists apply their training in metal casting, mold making, and large-scale fabrication within industrial and artistic foundries. Their technical expertise opens opportunities in high-demand fabrication environments.

Art Educator

Art educators often teach sculpture and related subjects at universities, community colleges, and art centers. They mentor students, contribute to academic research, and participate in exhibitions as part of their professional practice.

Public Art Coordinator

Public art coordinators lead initiatives for municipalities, nonprofits, and arts organizations. They manage commissions, oversee fabrication and installation, collaborate with artists and contractors, and promote public engagement with artworks.

Community Arts Leader

Community arts leaders direct programs at art centers and nonprofits, overseeing education, studio management, exhibitions, and outreach. Their work fosters creativity and art appreciation across diverse communities.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in art from an accredited institution, including a minimum of 36 credit hours in art coursework. At least 10 of those hours must be completed within a studio concentration.

GPA Requirement

Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA in the final 60 hours of undergraduate coursework. Those who do not meet this requirement may need to complete prerequisite coursework before gaining full admission.

Application Materials

Applicants must submit an official undergraduate transcript, a completed application to the Graduate School, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose outlining artistic goals, and a current résumé.

Portfolio Submission

Applicants must submit 20 images of original work in a PDF slideshow format, with each image clearly labeled with the title, medium, dimensions, and date. An accompanying image identification sheet is also required.

Review Process

The MFA Admissions Committee reviews all submitted materials and may recommend remedial coursework if undergraduate deficiencies are identified. Final admission decisions are made by the Graduate Dean.

Submission Deadline

All application materials must be submitted by February 1 for consideration for Summer or Fall semester entry.

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.

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Related Programs

Students interested in the Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) may also wish to explore related programs at Fort Hays State University. These options offer opportunities to expand technical skills, broaden creative perspectives, and enhance professional development.

FAQ

How competitive is the Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) program?

Acceptance is highly selective, with only four graduate students admitted once, ensuring personalized attention and professional-level training.

Are international opportunities available for Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) students?

Graduates can participate in international residencies, particularly in Germany, where they engage with the European art community and exhibit their work.

What scholarships or financial aid options exist for sculpture students?

Competitive Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) positions and scholarships are available, providing financial assistance and valuable teaching experience.

Can graduates gain certification in technical skills during the Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture)?

Students learn welding and fabrication techniques, including opportunities for certification through collaboration with the Department of Applied Technology.

What facilities and resources are available specifically to Master of Fine Arts (Sculpture) students?

A 12,000-square-foot sculpture building with a woodshop, foundry, blacksmithing shop, spray booth, installation gallery, and advanced 3D printing technologies is available for sculpture students.

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.

Student Organizations

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.

Sculpture

Bachelor's
Master's

On-Campus

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