The Master of Fine Arts program at Colorado State University fosters excellence in artistic inquiry and achievement. Students accepted into our program work closely with nationally recognized faculty who guide a wide range of research and experimentation in studio media. In each phase of the curriculum, individual studio practice is enriched by research in art history and clarified through engagement with contemporary discourse surrounding art, craft, and design. Graduate students exhibit work and give presentations at venues throughout the region and beyond as they prepare to move forward in their careers. For more than forty years, the Department of Art and Art History has demonstrated its commitment to graduate education. Ours is the most comprehensive visual arts program in the Rocky Mountain West and one of the largest academic departments at CSU. Our alumni exhibit their work nationally and internationally, and teach at schools, universities, and workshop programs. CSU alumni jury and curate exhibitions, work as designers, contribute to conferences and arts publications, and work with arts organizations. <br><br>The MFA program in graphic design focuses on the artist as an agent of visual communication in society. With emphasis on conceptual problem-solving and technical proficiency, graduate students are encouraged to create effective artistic expression in various print, digital, or interactive media. Graphic design theory, history, and professional practices are discussed regularly with faculty. Experimental solutions to student created goals are expected from participants in this program. The biennial Colorado International Invitational Poster Exhibition is a core feature of our program and graduate students participate in the organization and presentation of this event. Graduate students occupy a semi-private studio on campus. At present, our graphic design MFA program has a very limited enrollment so please check to see when we are accepting new students before applying. Please be aware that graduate students in our program must demonstrate a strong background in graphic design before being accepted.