Critical Studies Program | Pacific Northwest College of Art

Learn about the program

Program Description

Ma in Critical Studies logo

The MA in Critical Studies at the Pacific Northwest College of Art offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. This interdisciplinary program examines society, history, culture, and the arts, focusing on power structures, ideologies, and social constructs that shape experiences. Students delve into issues like race, gender, class, and sexuality, engaging in comprehensive thesis projects and internships to apply their learning in professional settings.

The program develops essential skills in public engagement, diverse writing, and academic presentations, preparing graduates for careers in creative fields, administration, advocacy, and education.

Graduates of the MA in Critical Studies are equipped to understand and transform society by offering alternative perspectives and challenging existing norms.

MA/MFA

Combine an MFA with an MA in Critical Studies

Our dual-degree option allows you to pursue an MFA in Visual Studies or MFA in Print Media while pursuing an MA in Critical Studies and complete both degrees in three years.

MA/MFA Dual Degree

MA/MFA Dual Degree Options

A student using the squeegee to distribute ink for a screenprint

MA+MFA Print Media

Visitor viewing a Visual Studies piece at First Thursday

MA+MFA Visual Studies

Opportunities

A dock by a lake from the Critical Studies Caldera Program

Thesis Writing Retreat

During the second year of the program students join faculty for a multi-day writing retreat including intensive study, dialogue, and community at Caldera Arts Center in the beautiful natural surroundings of the Pacific Northwest.

2024 promotional English Institute Poster

The English Institute

The MA in Critical Studies Program is an Institutional Sponsor of The English Institute, a major resource for developments in criticism, theory, and scholarship.

The English Institute

Reading bell hooks Teaching to Transgress at Caldera

Program Highlights

Visiting Scholars

Conversations are enlivened by visiting writers and scholars throughout the year. These visiting scholars and writers include Ocean Vuong, Maggie Nelson, Sarah Schulman, Walidah Imarisha, Shayla Lawson, C. Riley Snorton, Z. Nicolazzo, Allan de Souza, and Cheryl Strayed