The 3D4M (3-Dimensional Forum) program at the University of Washington focuses on the study of Ceramics, Glass, and Sculpture. The mission is to explore interdisciplinary exchanges that revolve around material study, concept, and critical dialogue in a studio-based environment.
The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in 3D4M: Ceramics + Glass + Sculpture is a two-year course of study emphasizing an experimental approach to materials and ideas and centered on individual directions within the broad spectrum of contemporary art making. The program places primary concern on personal development and the sharing of ideas, allowing for a flexible and challenging view open to new concepts. MFA students benefit from a range of extra-curricular opportunities that enhance their learning experience, including a year-round calendar of student and visiting artist exhibitions and lectures.
Why study 3D4M at UW?
Studios + Facilities
The CMA building houses the 3D4M studios and facilities for ceramics, wood, glass and metal fabrication, a foundry,computer lab, mold making facilities , and student exhibition gallery. 3D4M Graduate students are provided with a studio at the CMA and 24-hour access to the facilities they need for their work.
EXPLORE 3D4M FACILITIES
Work with nationally recognized faculty
The 3D4M faculty are nationally recognized practicing artists and researchers that prepare graduates to become research-driven, experimental, and conceptual art practitioners.
Admissions
Annual admission to the Master of Arts graduate program is competitive. Applicants who are admitted begin their studies during the autumn quarter of the UW academic year.
Degree Requirements
Students receive a Master of Fine Arts degree following the successful completion of a two-year course of study, a thesis, and the Graduate School Degree Requirements.
Coursework Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 78 credits. Year one of the MFA program is dedicated to seminars, studios, and electives. Year two is centered on the thesis project.
Year One
Autumn Quarter: 15–18 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART 590: Interdisciplinary Graduate Seminar (5 cr)
Elective (5–8 cr)
Students take ART 501 Graduate Student Teaching Mentorship (3 credits) in Autumn or Winter quarter of their first year.
Winter Quarter: 15–18 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART 590: Interdisciplinary Graduate Seminar (5 cr)
Elective (5–8 cr)
Students take ART 501 Graduate Student Teaching Mentorship (3 credits) in Autumn or Winter quarter of their first year.
Spring Quarter: 15–18 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART H 509: Seminar in Special Topics in Art History (5 cr)
Elective (5–8 cr)
Year Two
Autumn Quarter: 15–18 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART 590: Interdisciplinary Graduate Seminar (5 cr)
ART 700: Master’s Thesis (2 cr)
Elective (3–6 cr)
Winter Quarter: 15 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART 590: Interdisciplinary Graduate Seminar (5 cr)
ART 700: Master’s Thesis (2 cr)
Elective (3–6 cr)
Spring Quarter: 12–15 credits
ART 553: 3D4M Graduate Studio (5 cr)
ART 700: Master’s Thesis (6 cr)
Thesis
The MFA thesis has a visual, written, and presentation component, and it is a degree requirement. During the second year of their program, students work closely with a thesis chair (a member of the Divison of Art faculty) to develop a body of work while simultaneously shaping the written thesis. They conclude their thesis project by exhibiting their work in the MFA Thesis Exhibition in the spring of their final year.
Satisfactory Progress Requirements
MFA graduate students must maintain satisfactory performance and progress toward completion of their degree program to continue graduate study and research at the University of Washington. Graduate students engage in quarterly progress reviews with their advisor and receive an annual progress evaluation from the design faculty to ensure they continue to meet all UW Graduate School satisfactory progress requirements.