NOTE: Please visit the Curriculum link for a list of required courses and credits.

Nine credits per semester are required to maintain full-time status. These initial credits are assessed at one tuition rate; twelve credits and above at a different tuition rate. Please see the Tuition and Fee’s section of The University of Montana web page at http://www.umt.edu/finaid/cost.htm for clarification of tuition.

Full graduate status is granted to students working toward an advanced degree and whose applications present clear promise of satisfactory graduate work, with reference to the amount and level of performance in prior academic preparation, possession of a bachelor’s degree (BFA or equivalent credits to enter the MFA program) from an accredited institution, and satisfactory letters of recommendation.

Graduate students in degree programs must register for credits each autumn and spring semester.
50% of the total degree credits, minus the thesis, must be at the 500-level or higher.
Credits at the 300-400 level must have UG designation and are limited to six credits at the 300-level.

Explanation of Degrees

The School of Art offers MA in Art History, MA in Studio Art and MFA in Studio Arts, Students may also earn a dual degree of MFA - Studio Arts and MA - Art History. Sample advising sheets are located on the forms page in PDF format. All required course work and total number of credits are found on these advising sheets.

The Masters of Art (MA) - Art History

The MA in Art History is a 30-credit program that consists of upper division course work in art history, art criticism studio art, research, writing and methodologies. This research-intensive program requires: seminar level research papers, a comprehensive language requirement examination for a thesis or non-thesis track degree.

The Masters of Art (MA) - Studio Art

The MA in Studio Art is a graduate level degree that allows in-depth exploration of studio mediums and Art History and Criticism topics. This 30-credit program consists of upper -division course work and a thesis exhibition.

The Masters of Fine Arts (MFA)

The MFA is a graduate level degree that allows for an area of concentration (Painting, Drawing, etc.). This 60-credit program consists of upper division course work, critique seminars, and a thesis exhibition.

In the School of Art, graduate students have a graduate advisor, typically the Director. For questions about the graduate program, please contact the Director through the School of Art office at (406) 243-4181.