Master of Arts in Art at GSU

The Governors State University’s M.A. in Art degree is an exceptional program that will help you to develop your artistic vision and voice.  Residing within the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), the art programs are part of the Communication, Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) division, which include the permanent GSU Visual Arts Gallery. 

Our master’s in art program emphasizes intellectual curiosity, self-discipline and technical proficiency.  Students are given the opportunity to grow into mature artists that are in command of the medium and capable of expressing an individual view.  The course work includes painting, printmaking, photography, digital imaging, sculpture and ceramics.  The extensive selection of art history classes range from contemporary international and regional artistic expressions to ancient America, Africa and Asia.  

In addition, the program requires an advisor approved graduate exhibition or presentation of an art history thesis. If you choose the art studio option, you will prepare a one-person exhibition and written documentation that reflects a consistent body of work in your area of interest.  Students opting for the art history thesis will complete a research project and prepare a formal thesis manuscript. 

In addition to meeting GSU’s general admission requirements, applicants need to have an undergraduate major in a humanities and submit a proposal outlining academic goals.  A student’s proposal requires supporting rationale, a plan of study and needs to include examples of previous work.  All proposals must be approved by a degree program advisor before admittance into the major. 

As a GSU graduate student, you will be taught by talented, practicing artists in their own right who can help you to achieve your career goals.  Also we keep class-sizes small to ensure personalized attention.  Please see the CAS’s website for the complete program details and requirements.  

Governors State University offers students outstanding academic programs, activities and services. Each college has stellar programs and world-class professors; all of which are focused on delivering academic excellence in a small-class setting.  Our rich history, cultural amenities and a beautiful campus all contribute to making us one of best colleges in Illinois.