Merge studio practice with rigorous critical analysis. Combine an MA in Critical Studies with an MFA in Visual Studies or Printmaking.
Master of Arts/Master of Fine Arts
Graduate
84-87
3 Year
Portland
As the PNCA Center for Contemporary Art & Culture's Graduate Curatorial Fellow, Genesis Turris MA/MFA '25 represented PNCA and put his arts knowledge into practice. He curated a wide range of exhibitions for the public and the PNCA community.
Genesis had the opportunity to develop his curatorial style and delve further into his ideas about creative work and how it can be consumed by the public. His responsibilities as a fellow included curating, scheduling, and maintaining the on-campus student galleries alongside the Gallery Director and BFA Galleries Coordinator.
For artists who wish to enhance their artistic explorations through critical writing, our joint MA/MFA program can help. Our MA/MFA students will develop a unique set of skills in both creative practices and critical writing. Our program offers a path for students to explore a variety of artistic skills.
Our faculty members have won awards, created iconic work, and shared their insights into the art world. Connect one-on-one with instructors who help guide your creative process and inspire you. Our graduate degree programs also bring in artists and speakers for panels, lectures, and events.
Yoshihiro Kitai, Chair of BFA and MFA Printmaking Department, Professor of Printmaking at PNCA, combines Western abstraction and Japanese metal leafing in his work, reflecting his perspective as an immigrant in the U.S. With an MFA from Washington University and a BFA from PNCA, his art is featured in various public and private collections.
Garrick Imatani, Associate Professor and Chair of the MFA in Visual Studies program at PNCA, is an internationally exhibited artist and recipient of numerous fellowships and grants. He brings diverse experience, from community education to higher ed, ensuring students gain practical skills and critical perspectives in contemporary art.
Shawna Lipton offers students unparalleled expertise in Gender and Sexuality Studies, Visual Culture, and Critical Pedagogy. Her courses provide students with unique opportunities to engage in critical analysis and creative projects, preparing them for impactful careers.
The MFA/MA Dual Degree Program at PNCA offers a unique blend of artistic and critical studies. Pursue both an MFA in Visual Studies or Printmaking and an MA in Critical Studies over a three year program. This dual degree is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of art in society, combining individual research, group work, and experiential learning.
Our MA in Critical Studies dives into various critical theories, such as feminist theory, queer theory, and post-colonial theory. It offers additional time and support for a written thesis and includes public scholarship with opportunities for attending academic conferences.
Focus on a specific medium or incorporate a variety of mediums through our MFA in Visual Studies program. Graduate students will combine studio practice, critique seminars, and experiential learning to refine and expand their creative practice.
Hone your skills in bookmaking, intaglio, lithography, screen print, relief, risograph, photo, and digital methods in professional facilities. Explore both traditional and emerging techniques through our MFA in Printmaking.
Both the Printmaking and Visual Studies dual pathways require the students to complete the Critical Studies coursework and the MFA courses in their chosen pathway. Students write a written Critical thesis in the MA program and present a Visual thesis exhibition in the MFA program in Printmaking or Visual Studies.
Our dual degree program is designed for students who want to blend critical analysis into their professional creative practice. Learn more about the admissions process for the dual degree program, including requirements for both the MA program and your MFA program of choice.
Hallie Ford School of Graduate Studies offers renewable Merit Scholarships to students who demonstrate aptitude in their areas of creative practice. Merit scholarships are assessed based on the strength of the student’s application. In awarding merit scholarships we consider each student’s portfolio (if applying to a studio-based program), personal history of scholastic achievement, as well as their contributions to culture and community. No separate application is required to be considered for merit scholarships.
Willamette University