CVPA Master's of Art Education & Master's of Fine Arts Graduate Handbook

Degree programs

MAE (Master of Art Education)

• MAE + Post-bac for Initial Licensure
• MAE Professional

*Please note that the MAE professional portion of the program is fully online.

MFA (Master of Fine Arts)

• Artisanry
• Fine Arts
• Visual Design

Main contacts

Art Education
Cathy Smilan, MAE Graduate Program Director (GPD)
csmilan@umassd.edu

MFA & PBC
Rebecca Hutchinson, MFA Graduate Program Director (GPD)
rhutchinson@umassd.edu

Registration for Graduate studio courses

For your first semester in the MAE program, you will be enrolled by consultation with the Graduate Program Director for MAE.

For your first semester in the MFA program, you will be enrolled with advice from the Graduate Program Director for MFA & PBC. Also make sure to consult your primary advisor. 

To enroll in graduate studio classes in subsequent semesters, you must: 

• Consult with your primary advisor to identify goals and course registration for the semester, keeping in mind degree objectives within span of degree, sequence of required course offerings, number of credit hours per course, and if any credits will be taken as Independent Study/Directed Study.
• At a minimum, check your COIN account at the beginning and the end of each semester to ensure that all courses have been listed accurately. 

MFA Thesis Committee

All CVPA Graduates form a thesis committee comprised of at least three faculty members from the department or College including:

• Thesis Advisor (assigned)
• Thesis Committee Members (2 or more selected in consultation with your thesis advisor)
• Members should be chosen who will best support your inquiry. While often chosen from the Art and Design Department, committee members can be chosen from the entire CVPA faculty, as well as other colleges in the University. Additional committee members can be chosen from outside the university so long as they are appropriately credentialed and approved by the Primary Thesis Advisor and the GPD. Committee Members from other colleges in the university, or from outside the university often serve as a fourth committee members. This is encouraged.
• Initial member (1) chosen by Primary Advisor from CVPA Studio and Art History faculty based on content of incoming student work.
• Student elects third member of their committee in consultation with Thesis Advisor.
• A fourth member may be requested by the student.
• The student assumes all responsibility for communication and arrangements with the external member.
• The Thesis Committee must be finalized no later than then end of the first year.
• Final Thesis Committee assignments must be reported to the GPD.
• The committee will guide, assess, and evaluate the student’s visual thesis and thesis report.
• The thesis advisor is responsible for regular ongoing academic advising.
• The thesis advisor will serve as a liaison between the student and the communication to the student from the thesis committee and will oversee the visual thesis and the thesis report.
• Students are encouraged to arrange additional meetings with the thesis committee; some thesis advisors may require students to meet with their thesis committees more frequently.
• It is the student’s responsibility to seek out the advice of the thesis committee members.

Additionally:

• If desired, an additional member may be added from another department within CVPA, the University, or another institution; A well-qualified outside person (that is, from outside UMass Dartmouth) may sit on a thesis committee, but at least two committee members must be UMass Dartmouth faculty members, one of whom undertakes principal responsibility as the thesis advisor. The majority of committee members and the thesis advisor must be permanent members of the UMass Dartmouth faculty.
• Students must arrange all meetings with their thesis advisor or committee;
• If a student wishes a change of thesis advisor or thesis committee member, a written request concisely stating the reason for the change request must be submitted to the graduate coordinator.  Requests for changes are considered, but not guaranteed.

MFA Thesis Committee: Primary Advisor is assigned at matriculation based on the match of mentorship possibility. In general, all committees are formed by the end of the first year, and no later than the term prior to the thesis proposal.

Academic policies

Academic policies, such as those listed below, can be found in the academic catalog.

• Grade point average
• Undergraduate credits
• Grades and Grading System

Degree continuation

To maintain status as degree candidates, full-time graduate students must remain enrolled continuously (exclusive of summers unless they intend to complete the degree requirements in the summer for August 31st degree conferral) or receive an approved leave of absence. Those who must interrupt progress toward their degrees should seek a formal leave of absence. If a student neither requests a leave of absence nor registers for “Program Continuation”, it is presumed that the student has abandoned pursuit of the degree; such a student must apply again for admission to resume work for the degree. Students studying part-time will have their degree status kept open unless they do not register for one full academic year.   
 
After completing formal course requirements, graduate students who continue to work on a thesis or project must remain in “Program Continuation” enrollment status for every semester in which they are continuing their thesis work, until completion. This includes the semester in which final approvals are given.  Students register for Program Continuation with the Registrar’s Office and pay a fee in lieu of tuition and regular fees. 
 
Graduate students who have not successfully met all degree requirements, may enroll in degree continuation for zero credits for one semester, following the completion of all program coursework.  See specific requirements and restrictions per program in respective sections of this handbook.

• Continuation in the MFA program is granted by the thesis committee, the Graduate Program Director, and CVPA Dean.
• Continuation beyond one semester in the MAE requires a formal written request to be approved by the MAE Graduate Program Director, and the College Dean.
• Continuation beyond one semester in the MFA program requires a formal written request to be approved by the MFA/ PBC Graduate Program Director, and the College Dean.

Full-time enrollment status

• Graduate Student full-time enrollment status consideration request form

Academic sanctions and dismissal

Leave of absence

• Complete the Graduate Leave of Absence form

Credit longevity

Waivers and credit transfers

• Credit transfers must be approved by the appropriate MAE GPD or MFA GPD, and the CVPA Dean.
• Waiver of a course does not mean a waiver of program credits.
• Up to six graduate credits may be transferred from other institutions but may not be applied toward major MFA studios or MAE core or culminating course credits. Course credits applied in the attainment of another credential (e.g., degree or certificate) from any institution cannot be transferred.
• For a 9 credit UMass Dartmouth Post-Bac in Artisanry all nine credits may be considered for transfer but may not be applied toward major MFA studio or MAE core or culminating course credits.
• Final grades of transfer credits must be B or better.
• Graduate Student Transfer Credit Evaluation Form

Assistantships

Studio Assistantships (SAs) and Graduate Assistantships (GAs)

• A limited number of Studio (SA) and Graduate (GA) Assistantships are available, based upon college needs, for incoming graduate students and include duties such as:  administrative assistance, gallery assistance, non-teaching/technical and studio support positions. They are awarded based on applicable background skills.
• SAs and GAs receive a partial tuition waiver, discounted fees, and stipend as determined annually. Please see Guidelines for graduate student assistantships and fellowships
• SA/GA appointments are awarded on a semester by semester basis but are generally renewed for a one-year period.
• SA/GAs may reduce other financial aid awards.
• SA/GAs add a substantial workload to your semester. 20 hour GA/SA work 320 Hours over a 16-week period, beginning the week before the semester begins and ends the week after the semester.
• SA/GAs are required to complete all assigned hours.
• SA/GAs are dependent on available funding and merit.

MAE Teaching Assistantships

TAs are available to MAE students who hold initial licensure or, in some instances, an appropriate terminal degree in a related field. MAE TAs assist:

• with teaching in Art Education partnership institutions;
• with pre-practicum observations for Post-Bac and undergraduate students;
• faculty in student-teaching seminar classes;

Assignments depend on undergraduate student enrollment and partnership opportunities. Assignments are determined prior to the start of fall classes as needed.

MFA Teaching Fellowships

There are a limited number of Teaching Fellowships available for MFA students starting their second year in the program. They are recommended by faculty members and the Graduate Program Director to the Dean’s Office, and assignments are competitive and multiple factors such as student enrollment, course rotations, and the curricular needs of the College can impact the assignments. 

MFA students who successfully complete the Instructional Development (ADG 590) course and demonstrate an aptitude for teaching through teaching demos and mock critiques are eligible to apply for consideration for a Teaching Fellowship. Students with significant teaching experience and/or an art teaching license may apply for the ADG 590 waiver. Please contact the GPD for the waiver form and to schedule a teaching demo. 

Teaching Fellowships are not normally awarded to first year MFA graduate students. However, the Dean’s Office may grant a first-year student a TF if successful college level teaching experience can be documented. MFA Teaching Fellows are assigned as Instructor of Record for undergraduate courses at 100 and 200 levels.

• Full-time Teaching Fellows receive full tuition waiver and a stipend as determined annually.
• Awards may reduce other financial aid awards.
• Teaching Fellowships will add a substantial workload to your semester. 

Independent and Directed Studies

1. For the 30 credit MAE, the limit for Directed or Independent Study is 6 credits or 2 courses.  
2. The limit on Independent and Directed Study credits for the 60 credit MFA is 12 credits (which includes the 9 credits of MFA thesis and thesis report) thus allowing 3 credits of Independent or Directed study.  
3. All graduate level Directed Studies (an existing graduate level course being taken outside of its customary semester) will use ART 596 and the existing Directed Study paperwork.
4. All MFA students who develop proposals for individual research initiatives will complete the proposal and the paperwork to enroll in ADG 595, Independent Study.
5. All MFA students wishing to gain technical or theoretical competencies from content offered in undergraduate courses (200-499 level inclusive) will do so by developing an Independent Study proposal using that course’s departmental 595 course number (see details below).
6. Transfer credits are considered in lieu of Independent or Directed Study.
7. The courses listed below are available to MAE students as well.
8. Digital forms for Directed Study and Independent Study can be found on the Registrar's site.

Independent and Directed Study Course definitions

AED 595: MAE student develops and submits an individual proposal for intensive, original research to be supervised by a CVPA faculty member. The proposal requires the appropriate signatures as noted on the Day School Independent Study Form available at the Registrar’s office. Graduate students are responsible for completing all paperwork and securing the necessary signatures before submitting the documentation to the registrar.

ART 596 or AED 596: when an MFA or MAE student enrolls in an existing graduate level course that is not offered that semester; accompanied by faculty sponsor approval.

ARH 595 or ADG 595: to be used when an MFA student requires content from an existing undergraduate (400 or higher) course towards the fulfillment of their research direction. The Independent Study proposal will be

1. developed by the student proposing the direction of inquiry,
2. include the statement, "may attend lectures and demonstrations of appropriate/applicable content that contributes to the completion of the graduate level research", and
3. have faculty sponsor signature indicating approval and oversight of the research.

Financial support

A number of scholarships and grants for graduate students are available through the University. 

For scholarship opportunities, please visit the Scholarship Portal for available scholarships.

For Graduate Student Travel Grant from the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies, please refer to Current Graduate Student Resources.

View Graduate Student Senate Travel Grant information.

Financial aid advice

• Keep copies of everything that you sign for your records.
• Keep receipts of all transactions with the Financial Aid Office.
• Keep receipts for all supplies; make photocopies for your files.
• Know the difference between the kinds of available aid: unsubsidized loans, subsidized loans, scholarships, work-study, and the teaching assistantship tuition waiver.
• Students are responsible to inform the Financial Aid Office of all personal changes of address, employment status, enrollment status, marital status, or other pertinent information.
• Establish in-state residency during your first year which will greatly lower your tuition/fees for the subsequent year.

Studio/classroom conduct

Please familiarize yourself with the Student Code of Conduct.

The initial paragraphs of the UMassD Student Code of Conduct state:

Students at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth are expected to exercise self-discipline and maintain a high standard of honesty and moral conduct. All students are expected to act in a way that does not infringe upon the rights of others or upon the educational process. The University respects the laws and ordinances of the civil jurisdiction within which it lies and is not to be considered a sanctuary from state or federal law. All students are responsible for knowing their rights and responsibilities described in this document. Students may not claim innocence of a violation of the Student Code of Conduct on the grounds of a lack of awareness.

General studio safety and building policies

Art educators, artists, artisans, and designers are exposed to a number of potentially hazardous materials and processes in their studios. Knowledge of hazards and proper studio procedures, coupled with an attitude of respect and mental alertness, will help ensure that your workspaces are safe and healthy. All MFA and MAE Graduate students must read both the general CVPA Health and Safety Manual as well as the safety policies for their specific studio. Signed consent forms related to these manuals will be kept on file by your faculty and are renewed each semester. The use of studio facilities in media areas other than your own will require safety instruction as needed from that area’s technician or faculty, and a subsequent reading of that area’s Safety Manual, and signing of its consent form. As graduate students, it is expected that you will adhere to all safety policies and procedures and provide leadership for all other students (undergraduate and graduate), by acting as a role model for safe working practices. Additionally, MAE and MFA TAs have the responsibility to make such safety procedures an integral part of their pedagogical practice.

UMassD studio facility policies

Specific studio area policies are determined by the administration and faculty for each area. Students are expected to care for their studio and its equipment and respect the rights and safety of others. Any violation of the policies of your studio area may result in the loss of studio privileges. Student will not alter, change, or install anything in any portion of the buildings without permission. Studio walls are not to be painted any other color besides the existing white base paint. No exceptions. 

Facilities

The CVPA maintains space on two campuses: the CVPA building on the main campus and ADS in Dartmouth; all graduate studios are located in ADS. 

List of all CVPA facilities

MFA studios

Graduate studio space is provided for all enrolled MFA students for the production of art, design and scholarly work. Any violation of this agreement will result in the loss of studio privileges. Studio rules are outlined in the section below.

Studios procedures, regulations and responsibilities

1. Students will act professionally and respectfully to faculty, staff, and other students.
2. The studio will be used for educational purposes only. It is for the production of art and design work. No one may use the space for living quarters.
3. Students are responsible for the care and cleanliness of the studio.
4. Equipment and furnishings cannot be removed from the studios.
5. Students must wear headphones while listening to audio files. 
6. Cell phone usage is requested to be outside. Or behind closed doors and should not be on speaker phone.
7. Headphones must be used when listening to music or podcasts.
8. Students are responsible for the conduct of their guests. Children, relatives and friends are not authorized to use the space or equipment.
9. CVPA is not responsible for anyone’s personal belongings. Keep all valuables locked in storage cabinets.
10. The use of spray adhesives, paints, solvents and chemicals is prohibited. Whenever possible, non-toxic materials should be used. Toxic chemicals must never be rinsed down the sink or disposed of in a hazardous manner.
11. Please use cutting mats and do not cut directly on any tabletops.
12. The consumption of alcohol is prohibited in the studio.
13. Cooking is prohibited in the studio.
14. The use of illegal drugs is prohibited in the studio.
15. Smoking is prohibited in the studio.
16. No structural alterations or additions to the studio are allowed.
17. No painting of the walls, floors, or other spaces and structures within the studio is allowed.
18. In general, curtains in studios may be requested. Please contact Assistant Dean, Jessica Fernandes Gomes (jessica.fernandes@umassd.edu), to make the request. 

Art and Design Studio (ADS) building policies

(this policy is reviewed and revised as needed each semester; building hours are posted in the building).

Building issues/problems/questions

Report any problems with the function of the building (plumbing, electrical, HVAC etc.) to the Assistant Dean (Jessica Fernandes Gomes) by email. A work order will be initiated for non-emergency building issues and followed up by John Saunders, Building Superintendent. 

Structural alterations to ADS

There shall be no structural changes or additions to this building unless approved by the University, with construction work carried out by approved, licensed contractors. There can be no installation or removal of permanent walls, painting of existing studio walls and electrical outlets, structural changes, addition of locks or doors, the placement of equipment, material and/or personal property that blocks or interferes with heating, ventilation ductwork, or accessibility. 

Fire code regulations

Hallways, stairways, exits, and doorways must be kept free of any obstructions per Town and State Fire Codes. These areas may not be used for student work or installations. The rear stairway of this building is a fire exit route only and should not be blocked. Do not prop open fire exit doors – it is illegal. Do not paint over fire alarms or safety equipment. Fire safety equipment should be clear of obstructions at all times. When the fire alarm sounds, everyone is expected to vacate the building immediately, unless a fire drill notification is announced.

Building access policy

Building access policy is included in Appendix I: Policies. All students must comply with this policy. Students are expected to adhere to the building’s closing time and plan their studio work accordingly.

Security personnel

There is security personnel on site when the building is open. Report any emergencies, suspicious activity, or unauthorized persons to security immediately. 

UMassD computer lab policies

Contact: cvpa.tech@umassd.edu

• Only CVPA-authorized software may be used or installed on university-owned lab computers. Consult the Technician for software and font installation.
• Conserve printer toner and paper.
• Do not use paper that has not been approved by the Technician.
• Printers are not to be used for high-volume printing, acetates, or final thesis printing.
• Students must not attempt to repair equipment or computers. Contact the Technician for assistance.
• Damaged or broken equipment should be reported to the Technician.
• Damage to or theft of computer equipment will result in loss of access to the computer laboratories and associated privileges. Violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
• CVPA is not responsible for troubleshooting or repairing student-owned computers.
• Student work should be saved and backed up to a portable storage device.
• Care should be taken when plugging in and unplugging cables.
• Eating and drinking at computer workstations are prohibited.

Vacating studio space

At the end of the spring semester of their graduating year, students have approximately two weeks to vacate their assigned studio space even if the thesis report may be unfinished. If you are not currently registered as a student, you must also vacate your studio space within two weeks of the start of the semester. Even if the thesis report is unfinished, students no longer receive studio space or have access to facilities. Additionally, UMassD cannot provide storage for materials and projects for those who have mounted their thesis show beyond the end of the semester. Students are expected to clean out their studio and return it to satisfactory condition before departing. This includes spackling holes, painting, cleaning furniture, equipment, floors and windows. Any work, materials, tools, and/or personal property left behind will be discarded or considered studio inventory. All computer files should be backed up before leaving.  If more time is required to vacate, students may register and pay for summer studio access. When students are prepared to depart, contact Jessica Fernandes Gomes, ADS Coordinator or Shingo Furukawa, Technician, who will inspect and sign the Studio Check-Out form (Appendix II: Thesis) studio keys must be returned to Facilities as part of the check-out process. Graduating students will not be certified without a completed Studio Check-Out form.

MAE programs

30-credit MAE Program

The Master of Art Education (MAE) program is dedicated to increasing the capacity to question issues related to teaching, thinking, learning, and producing in and through the visual arts. The program serves many interests and career goals for both experienced professionals and novices in art education and related fields.

The program is approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to offer Initial (post-bac add on) and Professional Licensure (MAE). 

For those who already have an initial license, the MAE program offers flexible selections between research and practice orientations. The program is structured to address the broadly conceived themes of human development and creative expression, curriculum and leadership, and community partnerships. Courses in art education, aesthetics/art history/criticism, and studio are enriched by unique experiences embedded in praxis. Toward the goal of advancing the reform of education through the arts, the graduate program requires all students to demonstrate off-site Partnership and Action Research Experiences. A student designed capstone proposal and final capstone project are the culminating experiences in the MAE program.

54-credit Post-baccalaureate & MAE Program

For those seeking first-time post-baccalaureate initial licensure concurrently with the MAE degree:

• 24 credits to be earned first in the post-baccalaureate Initial License
• 30 credits to be earned in the Master of Art Education Professional License

Practical, theoretical & studio-based

Through self-directed inquiry, graduate students can tailor curriculum to their individual interests, teaching and career goals. The MAE program provides the necessary experience, whether the objective is to teach in public or private schools or community settings—such as day care centers, hospitals, welfare agencies, museums, alternative schools, geriatric centers, or vocational rehabilitation centers. Opportunities for supervised fieldwork exist in each of these areas.

For those whose objective is to teach in public schools, the program provides theoretical and practical experience. Graduates may earn their post-baccalaureate initial license through the MAE Post Baccalaureate, and the professional license through the MAE program. This is in compliance with Massachusetts state licensure requirements.

The MAE program offers a sequence of practical, theoretical, and studio-based experiences through which students build on their knowledge, skills, and confidence as arts educators. Interstate recognition makes art teacher course work earned at UMass Dartmouth reciprocally valid in many other states. The program also emphasizes professional development and lifelong learning for teachers who already hold teaching licenses in the arts or related fields.

The overarching learning outcomes for this program of study were developed to meet the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (ESE) standards, by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), and the National Art Education Association (NAEA).

MFA programs

Credit requirements and length of study

• 60 credit hours
• Two-year or three-year length of study
• Average course load per semester is 15 credits
• Minimum of nine credits are required for full-time enrollment

MFA Thesis Advisor and Committee

Primary Thesis Advisor

• Is assigned upon acceptance to the program but may be subject to change due to sabbatical/availability.
• Meets with you on a regular basis to guide development of your work.
• Supervises degree requirements, academic advising, thesis exhibition, and thesis report.

Thesis Committee

• Members should be chosen who will best support your inquiry. While often chosen from the Art and Design Department, committee members can be chosen from the entire CVPA faculty, as well as other colleges in the University. Additional committee members can be chosen from outside the university so long as they are appropriately credentialed and approved by the Primary Thesis Advisor and the GPD. Committee Members from other colleges in the university, or from outside the university often serve as a fourth committee members. This is encouraged.  
• Initial member (1) chosen by Primary Advisor from CVPA Studio and Art History faculty based on content of incoming student work.
• Students elects third member of their committee in consultation with Thesis Advisor.  
• A fourth member may be requested by the student.
• The student assumes all responsibility for communication and arrangements with the external member.
• The Thesis Committee must be finalized no later than then end of the first year.  
• Final Thesis Committee assignments must be reported to the GPD.  
• The committee will guide, assess, and evaluate the student’s visual thesis and thesis report.  
• The thesis advisor is responsible for regular ongoing academic advising.  
• The thesis advisor will serve as a liaison between the student and the communication to the student from the thesis committee and will oversee the visual thesis and the thesis report.  
• Students are encouraged to arrange additional meetings with the thesis committee; some thesis advisors may require students to meet with their thesis committees more frequently.
• It is the student’s responsibility to seek out the advice of the thesis committee members.

Committee change protocol

It is customary for the student’s graduate committee to remain in place for the duration of his or her studies. To make a change in the committee membership, approval by the primary advisor and other members of the committee is required, as is consent by those faculty the student wishes to add to his or her committee. The Graduate Program Director or Coordinator’s approval is also required.

1. Send formal written request to Graduate Program Coordinator and Department Chair.  
   • Written request must state the reason why a change is being requested.  
   • Written request must indicate who the candidate wishes to remove.  
   • Written request must indicate who the candidate wishes to add.  
   • Written request will be held in confidence by all parties.  
2. A meeting will be arranged between requestor, Graduate Program Coordinator and Department Chair.
   • All parties will discuss the letter, as well as any potential consequences and outcomes. These might include moving studios and issues around access to facilities.
   • Graduate Program Coordinator or Graduate Program Director and Department Chair will approve or deny.
3. A letter will be drafted by the Graduate Program Coordinator to the committee requesting a meeting and vote. The letter will state the reasons why the change is being requested and the persons requested in the change.
4. The Graduate Program Coordinator will call a meeting with the existing committee and the proposed committee.  
   • The student is not present at this meeting.
   • A simple majority vote will be taken to approve or reject the request.
   • The joint committee might suggest an alternative path.
   • The student may reject the alternative and request a second vote. 

Reviews and evaluations

Progress through your program is determined by successful:

• Completion of coursework
• Reviews of studio work
• Mid-term reviews
• End-of-semester reviews
• Sources Presentation
• Thesis proposal
• Thesis exhibition 
• Oral defense
• Thesis report
• Presentation at midterm and final walk-throughs (see below)

Mid-semester and end-of-semester reviews

• Community Open Studios: To share your work with fellow students, faculty, and the public, students are required to display or share their work on campus the day prior to mid-term reviews and final critiques.
• At the recommendation of your advisor, prior to each review, students must provide reviewing faculty with a one-page statement that explains the work with relevant sources.
• Statements must be distributed to faculty via e-mail one week prior to review date.
• Reviews are scheduled by faculty Graduate Coordinator. The progress and development of each student will be assessed by the thesis committee and documented in a review form. 
• Students are expected to show continuing growth/development and to present work professionally.
• The thesis advisor will distribute copies of the completed review form within one week following the end of reviews to the student, thesis committee members, graduate program coordinator for student’s file.
• Reviews do not replace the regular meetings students hold with their committee members.
• The format of these reviews is dependent on direction of the Graduate Committee.

Sources presentations

• This is a 15-minute public presentation where you describe the sources of inspiration for your work. At the end of the presentation there will be 5 minutes for questions from the public.  
• Through both images and oral narrative, you will speak about influences and concepts pertinent to the development of your studio work.  If pursuing installation format, address the importance of site. 
• Limit the amount of autobiographical background as this is an academic presentation. Include a few images of your current studio work to exemplify thinking and ideas.  
• Shortly thereafter, a 30-minute interview occurs with your thesis committee.  The intent is to discuss the content of the presentation, raise questions regarding sources and direction of inquiry to prepare for the thesis proposal.  
• Students may be asked to re-present Sources if further articulation of ideas is warranted.  
• Sources are presented: in February of the second year for three-year students and in     March or April of the first year for two-year students.

Thesis proposal

As you approach the thesis proposal, think about a body of work which will convey the concepts you are interested in focusing on. Then, basing your comments directly on that work, write a proposal which defines the direction and content of your visual thesis. Keep your discussion focused on your studio work, and the culture and influences from which it emerged.

Look for a large umbrella concept that is inherent throughout your work, which you could summarize in a paragraph or two. And then flesh out all the ideas that are spinning out of that overview of your work. If you write from your studio work, then the general umbrella concept and all the lesser deities that go with it will surface effortlessly by themselves.

In this thesis proposal, and in the thesis which you will eventually write, you are, in essence, taking stock of your own work and the concepts you are thinking about, taking your own artist/designer temperature by revealing some of the influences you have experienced, and at the same time seeing how and where your work is growing in the garden of ideas which surround you. You should approach this proposal and subsequent paper through your work looking outwards, all the while being cognizant where you fit in the art/design world with its varied histories and traditions.

In your discussion mention the context in which you find your work - what matters is that you see the context from which your work emerges. Tell us how you do and do not fit into that context and tradition. It is important to talk about how others are approaching, or have approached, similar subject matter. This helps you, and others, more closely see what is unique about your work.

There are often many gray areas in one's thinking and work which make it hard to speak concretely about what you are doing. However, that is part of the reason for doing this writing - to sharpen your understanding of the content and context of your work. Visit and revisit your work, ask it fresh questions, and let it guide your discussion.

• Is a concise 2-3 page essay that outlines a direction of inquiry and establishes clear objectives;
• Is supported by examples of well-resolved studio work’
• Is clearly stated and congruent with studio work;
• Identifies formal and conceptual directions of inquiry; • Outlines a focused plan of study for the year ahead;
• Discuss ideas that drive the work forward.
• Cite specific pieces of current studio work to support the direction of thinking.
• Mention some influences from the sources presentation.
• Briefly address anticipated materials use/techniques, format, and approaches.
• Indicate approximate number and type of pieces to be made for possible inclusion in the thesis exhibition.
• This is not a rigid contract as your ideas and studio work will continue to develop and be refined.
• The thesis proposal must be delivered to your committee at least one week before the review; otherwise the proposal will be rejected
• Is approved by the student’s thesis committee.

Thesis proposal reviews  

• Generally occurs in March of the second year for students on a three year track and in May of the first year for students in a two year track.  
• Failure to gain approval requires a second meeting in May of the second year for students in a three year track and September of the second year for students on a two year track.  
• If the student fails to gain approval after the second review the student
  1. withdraws from the MFA program; Or
  2. The student may request a leave of absence from the university for one year. In this instance, students must work independently to revise their thesis proposal and resubmit on or before February 1st of the next year. If the resubmitted proposal is accepted, the student returns to the university the following September to prepare for Thesis Exhibition the following Spring. If the February 1st proposal is rejected, students must withdraw from the MFA program.

Writing seminar

• Writing seminar is designed to assist MFA candidates with writing their thesis report;
• MFA students enroll in ART 515 Writing Seminar once the thesis proposal is accepted;
• Students in ART 515 are required to submit drafts of the writing to the thesis advisor for their feedback in the latter part of the semester;
• Thesis Report should be approximately 80% complete to earn a passing grade.
• Participation in the thesis exhibition is contingent upon competition of the writing seminar,  consistent graduate quality work, sustained growth, and development of concepts to realize thesis proposal.

Thesis exhibition

MFA candidates will produce a significant, cohesive body of visual work that is mounted within a group exhibition. Thesis exhibition participation is contingent upon consistent graduate quality work, sustained growth, satisfactory development of work and concepts. The December review is critical for assessing if sufficient progress has been made to enable participation in the Thesis Exhibition. If suitable progress has not been made as determined by the thesis committee, the student must take a leave of absence.

Degree candidates are responsible for:

• Selecting and prioritizing work for the exhibition in consultation with the thesis committee
• Installation of work
• Making arrangements for specialized equipment (such as digital projectors)
• Working closely with the Gallery Director on materials needed for catalog and publicity purposes
• Mailing of an announcement
• Assisting with exhibition reception
• Taking down the thesis exhibition
• Returning gallery space to original condition (repair holes, paint walls, etc…)
• Gallery Talk to be scheduled by Gallery Director.

The Gallery Director is responsible for:

• Exhibition dates
• Exhibition space allotment 
• Designing the exhibition
• Design and production of catalogue and postcard
• Approval of installation of work

Thesis report

Make sure to follow instructions through Graduate Studies.

The thesis report is written in support of the visual thesis and is comprehensive, generally at least 10 pages and up to 20-25 pages in its completed form.

• Includes images to support the text (not counted as part of the written requirement)
• Includes the following sections:
  • Abstract
  • Introduction to development of the visual work
  • Explanation of studio direction in terms of sources
  • Discussion of aesthetic concerns and pertinent technical information
  • Description of work included in thesis exhibition
  • Conclusion
  • Bibliography
• Students are expected to continue writing throughout the Spring and submit several  drafts to your thesis advisor. 
• In preparing the near final draft , deliver to the thesis committee at least 10 days prior to oral defense for adequate time to review.
• Once the thesis advisor has approved, deliver your draft to other thesis committee members preferably with one stage of committee review well before oral defense.

Consult the UMassD online thesis guide

Electronic Submission information

Oral defense

• Working with the GPD and Primary Advisor, establish a date and time for your oral defense while the Thesis Exhibition is open.
• Your defense must be publicly announced via UMassD Announce a minimum of two weeks before the defense; provide the GPD and the ADS Administrative Assistant with your name, the date, time, and place and the title of defense. At least three weeks prior to defense.
•  At the same time you send your defense notice you must also send your signature page to graduate studies apgradstudies@umassd.edu for review. There is a template you must use.
• Copies of the written report must be submitted to the thesis committee and any outside evaluator(s) 10 days prior to oral defense.
• The oral defense will take place while work is exhibited.
• You will speak orally about your work to explain ideas and objectives pertinent to producing the pieces exhibited in thesis exhibition. You are expected to summarize thoughts about the work made, development and realizations, be able to reference sources affecting your growth, and comment on the installation.
• Congruence between the thesis report and the visual thesis will be reviewed.
• This is a formal meeting one hour in length. The first 10-15 minutes will be open to the public; thereafter, the meeting continues with only the Committee.
• At the end you are asked to leave, faculty confer, and you are called back regarding passing of Oral Defense.
• If written thesis is approved at the defense, obtain signatures from thesis members at the conclusion of the defense.  
• If not approved, further work is undertaken if either Thesis report or Visual thesis is deemed unacceptable and will require a second Oral Defense.
• Thesis Defense completion form and announcement template are required.

Diploma requirements

Summary of requirements for Thesis Report

• Complete electronic submission procedure for approval by the Graduate Studies Office.
• Collect all required signatures.
• One soft bound copy to be filed with CVPA Graduate Office and the Thesis Advisor.

Follow these steps to receive diploma during final semester of study

1. At the beginning of the final year, as well as final semester, check your unofficial transcript to ensure you have no outstanding Incompletes or change of grades. If these exist, work to resolve ASAP.
2. File application for Graduation diploma with the Registrar’s Office graduation@umassd.edu by March 15th.
3. After mounting show and a successful Oral Defense, you will seek Thesis Committee signatures for the Thesis Report. Frequently it takes additional time for rewriting and/or editing the paper to earn all Committee signatures.
4. Obtain all signatures from committee members and the Graduate Program Director, AXD Chair, and College Dean. If digital signatures are obtained, the signature page must be circulated in a single email so there is proof of all who signed. If you prefer paper, you can do so on one signature page of 20lb 25% cotton rag paper. Follow the electronic submission procedure prior to collecting signatures. Signature Pages must be approved by the Graduate Studies Office Prior to Oral Defense.
5. Final grades for Visual Thesis will be posted by Primary Advisor after Oral Defense, and for Thesis Report when all faculty signatures are received.
6. IP Visual Thesis and Thesis Report Grades must be changed to reflect completion and to finalize credits.
7. Request that the Graduate Program Director initiate pre-certification.
8. When the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies has approved a Thesis Report, in terms of formatting, and the signature page has been received with all appropriate signatures, they will notify you that you may email a pdf of the finalized Thesis Report to: apgradstudies@umassd.edu.
9. Deliver to area Graduate Director: One bound copy of thesis report for Thesis Advisor and Coordinator for Graduate Studies on regular paper.
10. Complete Electronic Submission process.
11. Request Certification process to begin with Department Graduate Program Director to be forwarded to Associate Dean for approval. MFA Graduation takes place in May, and diploma certification typically takes place during the two weeks after the graduation ceremony.  

MFA Degree Continuation (IP)

Graduate students who have not successfully met all degree requirements may pursue continuation by enrolling in “Continuation” under the following conditions:

• Inform your Thesis Advisor and Registrar of intent [see Credit Longevity]
• If you have not participated in the thesis exhibition, enroll in ART 512 Continuation of Visual Thesis (MFA exhibition) for 0 (zero) credits. You will be asked to mount your work off campus for review by Committee and pass an Oral Defense, and you will present your Thesis Report for approval if necessary. One must register each semester for continuation until all degree requirements have been met.
• If you have not finished your Thesis Report, enroll in ART 516 Continuation of Thesis Report for 0 credits. One must register each semester for continuation until all degree requirements have been met.
• Your Thesis Advisor remains the primary contact for finalizing your degree. You are responsible for maintaining communication with this person who will work with the Thesis Committee when appropriate. You must demonstrate clear intent, and exert conscientious efforts to complete degree requirements.
• With delayed degree pursuit, for June graduation, the completed Thesis report must be submitted to the Thesis committee by March 15.  For December consideration, the thesis report must be to the thesis committee by October 15.

Helpful Documents

• MFA Graduate Program 3-Year Tracking Sheet.pdf
• MFA Graduate Program 2-Year Tracking Sheet.pdf

MFA Departmental program and facilities descriptions

Artisanry Program description

The Artisanry mission is to develop highly creative artists and designers with a strong sense of originality and vision. Through the study of the evolving intersection of techniques, materials, concept and processes of building finely crafted objects or interdisciplinary projects, students are prepared as studio artists and designers, college-level educators, or to enter industry and small business. The Artisanry graduate program leading to an MFA degree/PBC Certificate seeks students with the desire, maturity, and skills necessary to work at an advanced level. This program is a two or three-year course of study/ one-year PBC Certificate course of study with a duration and extent to allow for thorough development of ideas, critical investigation, and full realization of graduate study objectives. 

Summary of development expectations

3-year plan of study (Please note students can choose a 2-year or 3-year program) 
 
First-year studies: Students are encouraged to explore a broad territory of ideas, processes, and material exploration to establish innovative pursuits and rigorous practice within their approach. At the end of the first year, students are evaluated for academic and studio progress. If the work is acceptable, students are invited to continue second year studies.

Second-year studies: Further development of exploratory studio work to begin consolidating one’s general theme and approach. During the Spring Semester of the second year a thesis proposal is presented to the thesis committee. The proposal must be approved on or before the May review to enable program continuation.  

Third-year studies: In Fall, students enroll in thesis writing course to begin developing the thesis report while simultaneously working to further develop a cohesive body of studio work for thesis exhibition. The spring of the final year culminates in mounting work within the thesis exhibition, passing an oral defense, and finalizing the thesis report to earn the MFA diploma.

Artisanry graduate course listings

• ART 573 Graduate Studio I: Fibers
• ART 574 Graduate Studio II: Fibers
• ART 673 Graduate Studio III: Fibers
• ART 591 Graduate Studio I: Ceramics
• ART 592 Graduate Studio II: Ceramics
• ART 691 Graduate Studio III: Ceramics
• ART 694 Clay and Glazes I 
• ART 697 Clay and Glazes II
• ART 698 Kiln Building

Studio critiques

At least twice a semester students shall present their work in critique with their graduate peers, attended by faculty and/or visiting critic.  A brief written statement shall be submitted 24 hours prior to critiques. Students are expected to discuss each other’s work, verbally engaging the visual and conceptual strengths, weaknesses, and potential of the work in constructive, open forum.  Students are encouraged to provide written comments after critique for their grad colleagues. 

Design program description

The Visual Design MFA program allows students to explore visual communication in a broad sense. Under the guidance of a thesis committee, students develop a thesis project based on their own unique research. Students are encouraged to explore various media, processes, and methods while developing their topics. The thesis requires both visual and written components. Areas of study include:

• Digital Media  
• Graphic Design
• Illustration
• Photography

The Master of Fine Arts is recognized as the terminal degree in studio arts. It qualifies the recipient for professional work in the field and for higher education positions within a variety of disciplines. It is our belief that the best graduate education is achieved through individualized attention to the students, and we are proud of the extraordinary accomplishments of our alumni.

Expectations and course load

Students in the Visual Design MFA Program are encouraged to explore a wide variety of processes, materials, and concepts. They should demonstrate a strong work ethic and are expected to produce a significant body of work. Review of studio work by the thesis committee occurs twice each semester, and written evaluations are provided to the student after each review. After significant progress, students are required to refine their thesis topics. 

Fine Arts program description

The Fine Arts faculty are professional artists committed to the pursuit of teaching, research, and creative work. We provide an excellent and affordable studio education for our graduate students, our undergraduate majors, and for students who take Fine Arts electives within the college and university. We prepare students for professions in the Fine Arts through a rigorous program that emphasizes the development of aesthetic, technical, intellectual concepts and skills.

Summary of development expectations

In each discipline of the Fine Arts program (Sculpture, Painting, and Drawing), the span and duration of study allows for the thorough development of concepts and ideas, the mastery of techniques, and time for exploration and full realization of graduate study objectives. The MFA Fine Arts curriculum culminates in a cohesive thesis exhibition and thesis report. The length of study within the Fine Arts MFA programs is as follows: two or three years for Sculpture, two or three years for Painting or Drawing.

MAE Thesis Committee Change Protocol

Catalog language

It is customary for the student’s graduate committee to remain in place for the duration of his or her studies. To make a change in the committee membership, approval by the primary advisor and other members of the committee is required, as is consent by those faculty the student wishes to add to his or her committee. The Graduate Program Director's approval is also required.

1. Send formal written request to Graduate Program Director (MAE) and Department Chair for Change of Thesis Advisor or Committee Member Form.
   1. Written request must state the reason why a change is being requested.  
   2. Written request must indicate who the candidate wishes to remove.  
   3. Written request must indicate who the candidate wishes to add.  
   4. Written request will be held in confidence by all parties.
2. In consultation with the Chair and the current committee, the request is reviewed, and the student is notified of the decision or provided with an alternative option.