Creative Visual Arts
The Creative Visual Arts Master of Arts program at Cornell University offers a research informed, studio intensive, and conceptually rich environment for students who want to develop their artistic practices across diverse mediums. The curriculum integrates contemporary art theory, visual culture studies, material experimentation, critical methodology, and interdisciplinary creative work, allowing learners to explore how artistic concepts evolve through visual form and contextual inquiry. With a strong emphasis on creative practice, the program encourages students to examine how meaning is constructed through visual expression and how artistic work interacts with cultural, social, and spatial environments. This structure supports nuanced artistic development by linking theory, technique, and conceptual exploration within a rigorous academic framework.
Throughout the two year program, learners work closely with faculty who specialize in painting, photography, sculpture, digital art, installation, performance, and interdisciplinary media. Through studio work, critiques, collaborative projects, thematic seminars, and independent research, students strengthen their abilities in conceptual development, material exploration, and art making strategies. The academic environment fosters deep dialogue and reflective creative processes, helping learners refine artistic intent while experimenting with form, technique, and presentation. This combination of studio immersion and critical analysis prepares graduates to produce original, sophisticated work that engages contemporary artistic discourse and professional visual arts contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Creative Visual Arts
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Cornell University, United States
- Field of Study: Visual Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1
• Foundations of Creative Visual Practice
• Contemporary Art Theory and Critique
• Studio Exploration in Visual Media
• Elective in Photography, Drawing, or Digital Arts
Semester 2
• Advanced Visual Arts Studio
• Methods in Artistic Research and Analysis
• Material and Conceptual Experimentation
• Elective in Sculpture, Media Arts, or Installation
Semester 3
• Interdisciplinary Creative Studio
• Seminar on Visual Culture and Artistic Inquiry
• Project Development and Critical Dialogue
• Elective in Performance Art, Video, or Hybrid Practices
Semester 4
• Master’s Creative Thesis Project
• Professional Practices for Visual Artists
• Exhibition Planning and Presentation Strategy
• Elective in Advanced Studio Work or Art Criticism
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue creative and professional roles across the visual arts, frequently joining art studios, cultural institutions, creative production organizations, and independent artistic practices. Their preparation in artistic research, conceptual development, and studio production enables them to contribute to exhibition work, creative direction, visual content creation, arts education, and interdisciplinary artistic projects. With strong creative and analytical capability, they support cultural initiatives, produce original artworks, and engage with contemporary artistic communities.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent option for students seeking rigorous artistic growth, offering opportunities to develop advanced creative insight and strong conceptual capability supported by Cornell’s multidisciplinary arts environment. Through intensive studio practice, critical seminars, and research guided creative work, learners gain the tools to refine artistic voice, explore visual experimentation, and construct meaningful projects grounded in contemporary artistic concerns. Its structured two year format ensures both depth and experimentation, preparing graduates for impactful careers in visual arts, creative production, and interdisciplinary artistic fields.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 607 255 2000
Email: admissions@cornell.edu
Address: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States
