Master of Fine Arts in Electronic Arts

The Master of Fine Arts in Electronic Arts degree program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is designed for students pursuing artistic and academic careers emphasizing electronic media. Admission is highly competitive, and applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree and display a high level of ability in any artistic medium. In addition to the standard transcripts, recommendations, and statement of background and goals, prospective students submit a portfolio of creative work. The primary consideration in the selection process is evidence of talent and commitment to personal development as a creative artist.

The M.F.A. degree requires 60 credit hours of coursework at Rensselaer, including up to nine credit hours of master's thesis. Completion of the degree generally takes two years. Independent creative work done under a faculty mentor's supervision is encouraged. The form of this creative work may include musical compositions and performances, videotapes and installations, multimedia presentations, performance art, and computer-generated or mediated images. The student's work at Rensselaer culminates in a required thesis project, submission of written thesis document, and a thesis defense. The thesis project is a major artistic effort and may include a full-length performance, installation, or exhibition.

All students are expected to develop competency in using various media available in the iEAR Studios as well as in the theoretical and critical issues relevant to their fields of interest. Since the program is geared towards preparing students to participate actively in the art and music communities, practical aspects of production and performance of creative work are emphasized.