Headed by an internationally distinguished faculty, the Graduate Program offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary environment for training in the visual arts. The three-year MFA program comprises a series of core and elective classes in production, theory, and contemporary issues. Graduate students may also take advantage of the academic excellence UCI provides as a leading research university by taking courses in other departments and programs. Through a combination of faculty mentorship, seminars, and regular comprehensive peer critiques, the Department of Art affords an optimal intellectual setting for fostering creative and critical development. In addition to faculty dedicated to facilitating students' understanding of visual art and its cultural contexts, graduate students have access to visiting artists through lectures, studio visits, and colloquia.<br><br>The MFA program is designed to provide a thorough and intensive professional training for students wishing to pursue careers in the field of contemporary art. The program emphasizes experimental and interdisciplinary approaches to art making, while also providing a solid grounding in various disciplinary mediums and post-studio practices. Students undergo a rigorous course of study combining seminar classes, intensive critique courses, and independent study.<br><br>During the first two years, students take courses from a curriculum, totaling 12 units each quarter. Beyond that, students can select additional course work from any sector of the department or university, including approved upper-division undergraduate courses. The third year is structured so that students can devote themselves to the production of their thesis exhibition, working intensively with a small faculty committee.