The Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art (MFA) program at Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) is a unique and interdisciplinary program that challenges students to expand their art practice and intellectual curiosity. The six-term curriculum focuses on the intersection of studio practice, individual research, and critical analysis, with a strong emphasis on one-on-one mentoring by distinguished faculty, visiting artists, critics, and curators.
MECA&D offers students the flexibility to choose between Full and Low Residency options. The Full Residency option provides students with 24/7 access to private studios and fabrication facilities, allowing them to work alongside peers and faculty. On the other hand, the Low Residency option combines on-campus instruction with the freedom of working from any location worldwide. Intensive group sessions are woven throughout the two-year curriculum, bringing all MFA students together for research, travel, and dialogue.
One of the highlights of the MFA program at MECA&D is the Summer Intensive in Portland, Maine. All MFA students are required to be in residence in Portland for eight weeks each summer, where they engage with renowned faculty, visiting artists, and critics through public lectures, studio visits, and group activities. These Summer Intensives serve as catalysts for community and exchange, enriching the learning experience for graduate candidates.
If you are interested in applying to the MFA program at MECA&D, the application deadlines are as follows: Full-tuition Scholarship deadline is on January 18, 2026, Priority Acceptance deadline is on February 22, 2026, and the program starts on June 15, 2026. To learn more about the application process and to apply, visit meca.edu/mfa and see the application checklist.
Overall, the MFA program at Maine College of Art & Design offers a dynamic and supportive learning environment for artists who are looking to define and pursue a sustainable and transformative vision for their art practice. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning, individual research, and critical analysis, the program prepares students to thrive in the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.
