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A colorful illustration of a flower-like object with an eye in the middle.

The master of fine arts (M.F.A.) degree program in illustration encourages breadth of research and depth of inquiry to cultivate the next generation of illustrators, creators and teachers.

As part of a school of art within a major university, our approach is research-oriented and cross-disciplinary, emphasizing inquiry, authorship and critical thinking. To assist in creative experimentation, there are extensive facilities to work in a multitude of media: from the analog to the digital, traditional to cutting-edge.

Our faculty members are seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience in the field of illustration. They bring to the classroom a rich blend of practical knowledge and interdisciplinary research interests, providing students with an education that is both deeply rooted in traditional techniques and forward-looking in embracing new media and methodologies. With their extensive professional backgrounds spanning publishing, studios and the broader arts scene, they offer students an invaluable network and a multifaceted view of the illustration profession.  

The diversity of our student body helps our students to widen their perspectives in their areas of research, topics of interest and professional opportunities. We encourage our illustration students to create with global awareness, exploring intellectual and creative pursuits to better the world. Prospective students interested in research and image-making for visual communication are encouraged to contact us if you have questions and to apply to our illustration M.F.A. program.

Featured image at top of screen: work by Hanyu Shi G'25 from "Unforeseen" M.F.A. thesis exhibition at Warehouse Gallery

Program Highlights

Curriculum

The 60-credit curriculum includes required classes, studio electives, related academics and a thesis. Length of residency is three years.

A student sits at a table in a studio drawing on a piece of paper.

Exhibition Opportunities

In addition to the on-campus M.F.A thesis exhibition at the college's Warehouse Gallery, the School of Art and Department of Film and Media Arts hold an M.F.A. exhibition in the New York City area. The exhibition provides an opportunity for our M.F.A. candidates to connect to alumni, peers and arts professionals in the New York area.

An exhibition of colorful illustrations of animals in a gallery.

Semester Residency Program

The Turner Semester is a residency program in Los Angeles for a small cohort of M.F.A. degree students. The semester is generously supported by Marylyn Turner ’56 G’57 and Chuck Klaus G’05, who provide a residence in San Pedro (the Los Angeles Harbor area) for the students as well as lease studio space at the Angels Gate Cultural Center, where the students pursue their creative work. The semester includes an internship and culminates in an exhibition at a local gallery.

A student stands in a gallery talking to a group of people about a piece of art on the wall.

Professional Development

In addition to the Turner Semester, the illustration M.F.A. intersects with the profession through visiting artists, with workshops and lectures and on trips to New York City and elsewhere. You’ll visit the Society of Illustrators (where the program has membership) and participate in MoCCAFest in New York City in the spring.

You will have access to career advisors and services through the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Office of Academic and Career Advising. The office connects VPA students with networking opportunities, mentors and more.

A student stands at a drawing table covered in illustrations. The student is working on an illustration.
A girl looks at a group of fish. Whales swim above her.

Illustration by Jin Zhu

A person paints a dragon.

Illustration by Zihan Lin

A person dressed in a mask and headcovering.

Illustration by Evelyn Liu

Two individuals rest together in a cemetery.

Illustration by Aletta Ren

Illustration in black and white with a human-like figure.

Illustration by Sheez Lu