The MFA (Art) program supports graduate students in developing a contemporary art practice grounded in experimental making, critical theory and creative research.

Students work within an open studio context with faculty who are active artists, researchers and scholars. Indigenous knowledge and cultural perspectives are supported, while an extensive visiting speaker series creates ongoing opportunities to engage with leading artists, architects, curators, critics and historians from across Canada and beyond.

With dedicated studio spaces, excellent technical facilities and strong connections to nationally recognized galleries and arts organizations, the MFA (Art) program offers students exceptional opportunities for exhibition, professional development and critical dialogue within a thriving local artistic community.

The program supports areas of study in a range of creative practices, including:

• Drawing
• Painting
• Sculpture
• Installation
• Photography
• Printmaking
• Media and digital art
• Indigenous studio practices

The Faculty of Fine Arts is committed to providing competitive financial support to graduate students through a combination of awards and assistantships. The MFA in Art is a two-year full-time studio program of applied and academic study.  

Funding opportunities include:

• University of Lethbridge Graduate Research Award (ULGRA)
  • Eligible students are offered ULGRA as part of their admission into their program, up to a maximum of $21,000 per year.
• Graduate Assistantships (teaching/non-teaching)
  • Students are offered this funding opportunity with offers of admission, with assistantships valued at $3,916.51 for a full GA, and $1,958.25 for a half GA, as of 2026.

Program Facilities and Equipment

Located in the University Centre for the Arts, the Art Department is supported by excellent studios, technical support, and mentorship. Our creative spaces are resourced with a wide range of outstanding technical workshops and digital facilities, including:

• Metal shop with forge, steel welding (MIG, TIG and stick) and brazing capabilities
• Individual studios for senior students  
• Fully equipped woodshop
• Modest ceramic studio, including 16.5 cubic foot Bailey electric kiln and Brent SR-20 slab roller
• Plaster casting studio
• Bronze and aluminum foundry  
• Digital fabrication equipment including CNC router, 3D printers and Glowforge laser engraver  
• Printmaking studios  
• Digital media studio with large format printer  
• Photography studio with full wet darkroom  
• Painting and drawing studios  
• Exhibition, installation and experimental spaces  
• Sewing studio with 3 basic model sewing machines and one industrial sewing machine  
• Weaving equipment including 45” Leclerc Nilus 4-shaft floor loom, 24” Leclerc Dorothy 4-shaft table loom, and 2 rigid heddle looms  

Program Requirements

During the first year, students complete coursework and studio development. In the second year, students focus on thesis research and production.

The required courses for MFA (Art) majors are:

• Art 5148 - Graduate Studio I (6.0 credit hours)
• Art 5149 - Graduate Studio II (6.0 credit hours)
• Art 5160 - Theory in Art Studio (3.0 credit hours)
• Two electives at the 5000 level, at least one of which must be in Art, Art History, or Museum Studies (6.0 credit hours)