Admission to the M.F.A. program is highly competitive and is based on the submission of a formal application package. The applicant's prior academic records as well as references are examined for evidence of singular ability to meet the graduate standards and degree requirements of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Applicants are expected to have completed a Bachelor's degree and to provide evidence of accomplishment in some aspect of music or the visual arts, usually via an artist's portfolio.


The successful portfolio and application will show growth and development as an artist, experimentation with the artist's chosen medium, and a desire to work with all the electronic arts tools. The portfolio should represent what the applicant considers to be their best work in any medium. Acceptable submissions include but are not limited to urls, DVDs, slides, artist books, CD-ROMs, video and audio recordings, music scores, etc. Candidates should anticipate the portfolio review to be completed in approximately 30 minutes and submit appropriately.

Required Materials

• Completed graduate application (online application required)
• Non-refundable application fee of $75
• Statement of Background and Goals
• Portfolio
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Official transcripts and evidence of degrees earned, in English, of all post-secondary education listed
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable

Applicants must submit the requested materials online in addition to sending hard copies of the required supporting credentials NOT submitted in the online application, together in one envelope, to Graduate Admissions (address below) by the application deadline of January 1 for fall entry.

Graduate Admissions
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
110 8th Street
Troy, NY 12180-3590
USA