Fine Arts MFA Programs in Lakewood, Colorado

Pursuing a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Lakewood, Colorado

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) is a terminal graduate degree that prepares students for professional careers in the creative industries. Prospective art educators and creative professionals can choose from various MFA programs, including those with specializations in studio art, interdisciplinary art practices, and more. Typical MFA programs emphasize hands-on studio work, critical theory, and professional development, making them indispensable for careers in fine arts, art education, and beyond.

About Lakewood, Colorado

Lakewood, Colorado is a diverse suburban city in Jefferson County known for its active cultural scene and historical neighborhoods. For more information, visit the official City of Lakewood website. The city hosts numerous cultural events through organizations like the Lakewood Arts Council and features local landmarks and neighborhoods that celebrate art and community spirit.

MFA Programs in Lakewood, Colorado

While Lakewood itself does not offer a dedicated MFA program, nearby institutions provide excellent graduate degrees in fine arts. Below are three schools that prospective students from Lakewood can consider:

  1. University of Colorado Boulder

    • Programs: Offers an MFA in Art Practices and an MFA in Studio Art with specializations including Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramics, Photography, and Digital Media.
    • Address: 12 E University Ave, Boulder, CO 80309 (Approximately 25 miles from Lakewood)
    • Neighborhood: Located in downtown Boulder
    • Website: University of Colorado Boulder MFA Programs

  2. University of Denver

    • Programs: Provides graduate degree options in the fine arts, with curricula that include studio art practice, critical theory, and exhibition production.
    • Address: 2199 S University Blvd, Denver, CO 80208 (Approximately 10 miles from Lakewood)
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the University Park area of Denver
    • Website: University of Denver

  3. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Programs: Offers graduate studies related to art and creative practices, fostering a comprehensive approach to contemporary studio art and art education.
    • Address: 1001 13th St, Denver, CO 80204 (Approximately 10 miles from Lakewood)
    • Neighborhood: Located in downtown Denver
    • Website: MSU Denver

Art Institutions and Galleries in Lakewood, Colorado

Lakewood and its surrounding areas are home to several cultural institutions that provide enriching experiences for art enthusiasts and MFA candidates alike:

  • Lakewood Arts Center

    • Description: Serving as a community hub, the Lakewood Arts Center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events. It actively supports local artists through various grant programs and exhibitions.
    • Website: Lakewood Arts Center

  • Jefferson County Public Library (Arts & Culture)

  • Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD)

    • Note: Although RMCAD, located at 9901 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232 in the Highland neighborhood, offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts, it functions as a major local arts institution where students can immerse themselves in a creative environment before pursuing graduate studies.

Prerequisites for MFA Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in an MFA program include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: A completed undergraduate degree (often in art or a related field).
  • Portfolio Submission: Usually 20–30 images of original work, particularly for studio-based applicants.
  • Artist Statement: A 1–2 page document outlining artistic vision and goals.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Often required to assess academic and professional readiness.
  • GPA Requirement: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or a similar benchmark for the last 60 credits.
  • Entrance Exams or Interviews: Some programs may require additional evaluations.

MFA Program Structure and Requirements

MFA programs generally combine coursework with intensive studio practice. Common structural elements include:

  • Core Courses:
    • Studio Practice (typically 12 credits)
    • Art History/Theory (approximately 9 credits)
    • Visiting Artist Seminar (around 3 credits)
    • Thesis Project (approximately 6 credits)
  • Residency Requirement: Many programs mandate that 36 credits be completed on-campus.
    These programs also include critiques, exhibitions, and collaborative projects to prepare students for professional practice. Students should check for any state-specific requirements set forth by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (contact: (303) 866-2600).

Career Opportunities for MFA Graduates

Graduates with an MFA degree can explore a range of career paths, such as:

  • Studio Artist
  • Gallery or Art Director
  • Art Educator
  • Curator

In Colorado, fine artists have salary ranges from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 per year, while curators may expect salaries between $50,000 and $80,000 per year. For further details on the job outlook for fine artists, visit the Job Outlook for Fine Artists on BLS.gov.

Fine Arts MFA Degree Requirements and Resources for Lakewood, Jefferson County, Colorado

Official City Arts and Education Regulatory Bodies

  • City of Lakewood Cultural Affairs
    • Promotes arts and cultural activities through grants, events, and partnerships.
    • Website: Lakewood Cultural Affairs
    • Contact: (303) 987-7000

Official County Arts and Education Regulatory Bodies

  • Jefferson County Arts Council
    • Supports arts education, public art, and cultural initiatives in Jefferson County.
    • Website: Jefferson County Arts Council
    • Contact: (303) 271-8400

Official State Arts and Education Regulatory Bodies

Federal Arts and Education Oversight Agencies

State-Specific MFA Degree Information from the University of Colorado Boulder

  • Types of MFA Programs Available

    • MFA in Art Practices: Focuses on interdisciplinary studio practice, critical theory, and professional development.
    • MFA in Studio Art: Offers specializations in Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Ceramics, Photography, and Digital Media.

  • Admission Requirements

    • Portfolio: 20–30 images of original work
    • Artist Statement: 1–2 pages outlining artistic vision and goals
    • GPA: Minimum of 3.0

  • Curriculum Requirements

    • Core Courses: Studio Practice (12 credits), Art History/Theory (9 credits), Visiting Artist Seminar (3 credits), Thesis (6 credits)
    • Residency: 36 credits must be completed on-campus

  • Accrediting Body: National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)

Professional Organizations and Resources

  • College Art Association (CAA)

  • Lakewood Arts Council

  • Jefferson County Public Library (Arts & Culture)

  • Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD)

    • Offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts in Lakewood.
    • Website: RMCAD
    • Cost: Approximately $12,600 per semester (2024 tuition)

Get Started Today

Pursuing an MFA is a significant step toward a career in fine arts and creative education. With nearby institutions offering comprehensive MFA programs, abundant local art institutions, and supportive state and local resources, aspiring artists and educators in Lakewood have access to a wealth of opportunities. Prospective students are encouraged to explore program details, review admission requirements, and reach out to schools through their inquiry forms to begin the application process.