How to Apply - Master of Fine Arts

Admissions application process to DMAC Master of Fine Arts programs consists of the following:

1. Application for Admission Form and additional Documents submission:

Application for Admission Form can be submitted either online or by sending a hard copy of the Application Form. After filling out the Application Form, please send it to DMAC Admissions Department along with the following:

Non-Refundable Application Fee of $100

The resume should document educational credentials as well as professional and other employment such as internships or field experience in the intended area of graduate study, and should list commissioned works, exhibitions, honors, memberships, interests and activities, including volunteer work.

Signed Transcript Request Forms must be filled out for all previous secondary and post-secondary schools attended, whether or not a degree was earned at the institution. With the applicant’s written approval, DMAC Admissions Coordinator will order an official or certified copy of the applicant’s high school transcript or equivalent credential. If you happen to have an official, sealed transcript you are welcome to send it to DMAC directly along with your application package. Transcripts must be in English or must be official translations to English.

Signed Information Release Form must be filled out and included with the application package.

2. Artwork Review:

MFA Visual Effects Animation, Base Demo Reel Requirements:

Work should be submitted in digital form on DVD or CD. It must be labeled in clearly identified folders. A strong portfolio includes examples of modeling, animation, drawing and 2D graphic skills. In addition, portfolios should show aesthetic awareness, and effective use of software and tools to support the aesthetic purpose. Mature artistic or commercial direction should be shown in work that corresponds to the applicant's academic goals.

The Demo Reel should be accompanied by a sheet specifying the software (and version) used for creating all the artwork. The reel should be accompanied by a resume.

The applicant’s demo reel should demonstrate proficiency in the following topics:

Rapid sketching.
Image manipulation.
Storyboards for filmmaking.
Creation and implementation of high resolution textures.
3D modeling to include: Human body, facial features and environments.
Key framed animation.
Character Rigging
Character Lip-synching and dialogue animation.
Proper application of the 12 principles of animation.
Proper UV layout for texturing.
Hyper real interior and exterior environmental lighting.
Editing and compositing of final videos including music and sound effects.

Although artwork created with any graphic software is accepted and taken into account, it is necessary that the applicant demonstrates proficiency in the use of Autodesk Maya software.

MFA Web Design, Base Portfolio Requirements:

A portfolio should consist of at least twenty (20) pieces of artwork. The preferred method of image photography, etc. will be considered by the Graphic Design Department Chair. Portfolios to be reviewed should be presented on disc (images in PDF format). Portfolio should be accompanied by a sheet specifying the software (and version) used for creating all the artwork. Portfolio should demonstrate technical knowledge, use of and fluency in:

Raster Image Manipulation Software (i.e. Photoshop)
Vector Image Manipulation Software (i.e. Illustrator)
Digital Layout Software (including InDesign (preferred) or Quark Xpress)
Digital Photography (including the ability to take, edit and recontextualize photography)

MFA applicants, who are passionate about the arts and art education but do not yet have a Base Demo Reel/Portfolio produced, must submit 2 Letters of Recommendation and a one-page typed Essay describing the applicant’s goals and interests for Graduate School.

3. Interview with the Department Chair:

During individual interviews with the Department Chair, MFA applicants will discuss their educational aims and aspirations, previous experiences, interests, and career goals. If a prospective MFA student has earned a Bachelors degree in an area outside of graphic design, animation or a related field or does not meet the portfolio requirements, he/she must take and pass the following prerequisites: