MFA in Studio - Low Residency in Chicago United States | School of the Art Institute of Chicago

The Low-Residency Master of Fine Arts (Low-Res MFA) program caters to modern artists who need both a structured creative community and adaptable, self-guided learning opportunities.
SAIC's Low-Res MFA program recognizes today's artists and writers embrace diverse approaches that transcend traditional mediums or settings. This three-year curriculum adapts to the changing demands of creative professionals, tailored for mobile 21st-century makers. Consistently ranked among America's top graduate art programs by U.S. News, SAIC's Low-Res MFA equips students to tackle contemporary challenges through intensive exploration of current concepts, theories, and techniques.

The program bridges physical and digital learning environments, connecting you with SAIC's campus while supporting your local creative community. Much of the coursework emphasizes writing, analyzing artist texts, and research tailored to your individual practice. With guidance from SAIC faculty, you'll complete fall and spring terms remotely from your home studio, mentored by a local SAIC alum. Three summer residencies unite you with peers for six-week immersive sessions featuring studio work, seminars, and critical discussions at SAIC's campus.