The MFA is a 60 credit hour, full-time program requiring three years of study. It culminates in a visual thesis exhibition with a complementary written component that is typically introspective in nature. Students are able to tailor their class schedules in conjunction with their graduate committees, and classes that are independent as well as collaborative in nature are possible. Graduate assistant-ships are typically provided with acceptance to helps defray tuition costs in exchange for modest work requirements in the department. Teaching opportunities for graduate students exist in the second and third years. The Department of Art and Art History houses internationally recognized research programs that provide outstanding undergraduate and graduate training in theoretical, experimental, and applied art, design, and new media.