Choose Your Master's Degree in Art: MA vs. MFA

Choosing the right master's degree in art is important step when your ready to take your art education to the next level. The main difference between the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree and the Master of Arts (MA) degree is the percentages of liberal arts courses and fine arts courses you will take.

Individuals wishing to receive advanced training prior to becoming a practicing musician, dancer, artist or writer often choose an MFA program. With a more intense focus on art courses (65-85 percent) and less focus on liberal arts courses (15-35 percent), the MFA provides more hands-on experience for aspiring artists. The MFA is a 2-year or 60-credit program.

The MA focuses approximately 50 percent of the course work on liberal arts and 50 percent on visual arts. An MA may be completed in as little as 1 year or 30 credits.