SMFA at Tufts

The School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University is a distinctive art school borne of a unique proposition – an alliance of a major museum, a top-ranked research university, and one of the oldest art schools in the country.

SMFA at Tufts is where talented and curious students become artists with purpose. For generations, our graduates have worked across mediums, disciplines, and techniques to produce art that provokes thought and inspires change. It's a community fueled by big ideas, and the energy of those who seek to make them a reality. At SMFA, process matters every bit as much as the final product, and the questions are just as important as the answers.

Programs

SMFA offers a variety of programs for undergraduate, graduate and continuing learners:

Bachelor of Fine Arts – The BFA is designed for students who wish to have an art-focused education of their own making. The open studio curriculum is entirely elective—allowing you to curate courses based on your artistic inquiry. This intensive studio art training, combined with classes in liberal arts and sciences, aids you in developing a rigorous set of skills to support your artistic practice and provides the tools, resources, and support to help you make work of impact.

Combined Degree (BFA + BA/BS) – This 5-Year Combined Degree BFA + BA/BS is designed for students who have future goals that require additional, dedicated study in one of the School of Arts and Sciences majors. The Combined Degree program will give you a bespoke program of study leading to both a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.

Master of Fine Arts – The Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art is a rigorous interdisciplinary program rooted in contemporary art. Our students are committed to producing bodies of research through art-making, supported by a professional community of global artists and scholars.

Master of Arts in Teaching – The Master of Arts in Teaching in Art Education (MAT) program prepares artists to teach in elementary, middle and high schools with a critical focus on both contemporary visual culture and traditional arts. The resources of the Medford/Somerville and Boston SMFA campuses combine to enhance your understanding of urban and multicultural education and to develop your capacity as a reflective studio artist.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate – This one-year program offers intensive studio art study supported by professional development through seminars, studio visits, and guest curators and artists. Students receive individualized attention through the close advising and mentorship of the Post-Baccalaureate faculty. The program is ideal for students who have completed a bachelor's degree and want to immerse themselves in rigorous studio art-making as preparation for graduate study in art or for professional practice as an artist.

Continuing Education – These classes and workshops are designed for people at the beginning, middle, or advanced stages of their artistic exploration – from high-school and pre-college students to second career professionals to practicing artists. We also offer certificate programs in Graphic Design and Illustration, as well as a dual Graphic Design and Illustration certificate.