Fine Arts (Studio Art)- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Hagey Hall expansion building

Hagey Hall Hub located on Waterloo's main campus

Pursue practice-based research in an intimate setting with the Master of Fine Arts (Studio) program.

This distinctive and rigorous program is centered on studio exploration, professional development, and academic excellence.  With only five students admitted each year, you'll be able to cultivate your practice-based research in an intimate setting, guided by experienced faculty.

The pedagogical aspect of the program offers a seminar in course development, hands-on teaching assistantships, and the opportunity to teach a foundation-level studio course. The fully funded Keith and Win Shantz International Research Scholarship offers the life-changing opportunity to study and work alongside an artist of your choice, anywhere in the world.

With one of the most generous funding packages in the country, plenty of access to faculty and resources, teaching placements, and a solo exhibition in our nationally renowned gallery, UWAG, you'll be set up for success.

Research areas and degree options

  • Drawing and Painting
  • Digital Media
  • Expanded Media
  • Print Media
  • Sculpture

Program overview

Department/School: Fine Arts
Faculty: Faculty of Arts
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December)
Delivery mode: Master's, Research
Program type: Joint, Master's, Research
Length of program: 20 months
Registration option(s): Full-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • February 1 (for admission in September)

Key contacts

Sharon Dahmer
sdahmer@uwaterloo.ca
519-888-4567, ext. 36923

Admission limitations

Due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently limiting the number of international students we can admit. Please contact the department's Associate Chair, Graduate Studies prior to applying to discuss your interest in our program.

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • Applications will be considered from those who have completed a four-year Honours Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) or equivalent with an 75% average or better.
  • Applicants will be required to complete an application form, provide 20 images of recent work, and a short statement of intention.
  • Applicants without a degree or formal academic qualifications, but showing exceptional promise, may be recommended for admission only in exceptional circumstances. Such prospective applicants should contact the Fine Arts Graduate Advisor prior to submitting their application.

Degree requirements

  • Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree

Application materials

  • Portfolio
  • Resume
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)
  • References
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 100 (writing 26, speaking 26), IELTS 7.5 (writing 7.0, speaking 7.0)

Tuition and fees