/College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Art

MFA Studio Art

Thesis Exhibition, "Landscape of Awe" by Becca Osborn, MFA 2026 at Paul W. Zuccaire Gallery

Defining Your Creative Practice at Stony Brook

The Master of Fine Arts at Stony Brook University is a three-year, 60-credit terminal degree that seamlessly integrates intensive studio practice with rigorous critical inquiry.

Ideally located near the art centers of New York City, Stony Brook offers a unique opportunity to study in a quiet and spacious setting while maintaining close contact with the pulse of the international art world.

 

We believe that space and time are the most valuable resources for an artist.

  • Individual Studios: Every MFA candidate is provided with a private studio at our graduate facility in Nassau Hall.

  • Intimate Cohort: We limit our residency to no more than 20 students to ensure deep mentorship and a strong peer community.

  • 24/7 Access: Studios are available year-round to support your creative rhythm.


A photo of a graduate student's studio space, cluttered with various paints, fabrics, and canvases.

South Campus, MFA Headquarter, Studio View: Ye-seul Choi, MFA 2016

Based in the Staller Center for the Arts, our technical facilities support a wide range of traditional and emerging media:

  • Traditional Shops: Foundry, Metals, Wood, Ceramics, and Printmaking.

  • Lens-Based Media: Analog darkrooms and a professional shooting studio.

  • Digital Labs: Five specialized digital labs and advanced video editing facilities.

Exhibiting your work is a core requirement and a professional milestone.

  • Lawrence Alloway Memorial Gallery: A dedicated space for a regular cycle of solo and group student exhibitions.

  • Zuccaire Art Gallery: Our premier campus museum, hosting the Annual MFA Thesis Exhibition for graduating students.

  • Teaching Experience: Students gain pedagogical training by instructing undergraduate courses for a minimum of two semesters.

mfa grad mccurdy's installation view

Lawrence Alloway Memorial Gallery, Solo Thesis Exhibition, “Seven Hundred Thirty-Five” Alisha McCurdy, MFA 2012

 

 

Bridge the gap between "making" and "thinking" through our interdisciplinary curriculum.

  • Critical Inquiry: M.F.A. candidates are encouraged to enrich their practice with graduate-level art history and contemporary theory.

  • Graduate Certificates: Pursue specialized certificates in Art and Philosophy, Cultural Studies, or Women’s Studies.

  • Written Thesis: The degree culminates in a written thesis that articulates your creative research and conceptual framework.

For more info: Graduate School Bulletin

For more details: Contact Us