Boston University College of Fine Arts

Boston University College of Fine Arts (CFA) stands as a dynamic epicenter for artistic exploration, scholarship, and creative expression, nestled within the vibrant intellectual landscape of a major research university. Established in 1954, CFA represents a unique convergence of three distinct yet interconnected disciplines: the School of Music, the School of Theatre, and the School of Visual Arts. This interdisciplinary structure fosters a collaborative and enriching environment where students can delve into their chosen artistic fields while simultaneously benefiting from the extensive resources and diverse perspectives offered by a larger academic institution. CFA’s overarching mission is to nurture and empower emerging artists, scholars, and educators, equipping them with the essential skills, knowledge, and real-world experiences necessary not only to thrive in the competitive professional world but also to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving landscape of the arts and society as a whole.

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A Rich History of Artistic Development:

While the formal establishment of CFA occurred in 1954, its historical roots stretch back to the late 19th century with the founding of the School of Music in 1872. Over the ensuing decades, each of the constituent schools—Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts—evolved independently, cultivating distinct identities and earning widespread recognition for their rigorous academic programs and distinguished faculty. The eventual unification of these schools under the umbrella of CFA marked a pivotal moment, acknowledging the inherent synergistic potential of a consolidated arts college. This strategic integration facilitated enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, expanded access to shared resources, and solidified CFA’s position as a leading force in arts education. Throughout its rich history, CFA has consistently championed both time-honored artistic practices and innovative, forward-thinking approaches, demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the arts while steadfastly maintaining an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence.

Purpose, Goals, and Artistic Vision:

At its core, CFA’s fundamental purpose is to cultivate artistic excellence in all its forms and to inspire a lifelong engagement with the arts. This overarching purpose is realized through a set of clearly defined goals:

Providing a Rigorous and Comprehensive Education: CFA offers a diverse spectrum of programs, spanning from undergraduate degrees to advanced doctoral studies, meticulously designed to equip students with the technical proficiency, critical thinking skills, and creative vision essential for successful and fulfilling artistic careers.

Fostering Innovation and Experimentation: CFA actively encourages students to push the boundaries of their respective disciplines, explore new and unconventional forms of artistic expression, and cultivate their unique artistic voices in a supportive and challenging environment.

Building a Diverse and Inclusive Community: CFA is deeply committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life can thrive, collaborate, and contribute meaningfully to the ongoing artistic discourse.

Engaging with the Broader Community: Through a vibrant program of public performances, exhibitions, and outreach initiatives, CFA actively engages with the city of Boston and its surrounding communities, enriching the cultural landscape and making the arts accessible to a wider and more diverse audience.

Promoting Scholarship and Research: CFA strongly supports faculty and student research in the arts, recognizing the crucial role of scholarly inquiry in advancing knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the artistic field.

Developing Artistic Citizenship: CFA instills in its students a sense of responsibility to use their artistic voices to contribute to society, address important issues, and inspire positive change.

Nurturing Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Dialogue: The unique structure of CFA encourages collaboration across artistic disciplines, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives that enriches the creative process.

Connecting Students with Professional Opportunities: CFA provides extensive career development resources and opportunities, including internships, networking events, and mentorship programs, to help students launch successful careers in the arts.

Purpose and Goals:

CFA’s core purpose is to cultivate artistic excellence and foster a lifelong engagement with the arts. Its goals include:

Providing a rigorous and comprehensive education: CFA offers a range of programs, from undergraduate degrees to doctoral studies, designed to equip students with the technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and creative vision necessary for successful artistic careers.
Fostering innovation and experimentation: CFA encourages students to push boundaries, explore new forms of expression, and develop their unique artistic voices.
Building a diverse and inclusive community: CFA is committed to creating a welcoming environment where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the artistic discourse.
Engaging with the broader community: Through public performances, exhibitions, and outreach programs, CFA connects with the city of Boston and beyond, enriching the cultural landscape and making the arts accessible to a wider audience.
Promoting scholarship and research: CFA supports faculty and student research in the arts, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in the field.
Programs Offered:

School of Music:

Undergraduate: Bachelor of Music (BM) in Performance, Composition, Music Education, Music History and Musicology, Jazz Studies
Graduate: Master of Music (MM), Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA), Master of Arts (MA) in Music Education, PhD in Musicology
Diploma Programs: Artist Diploma, Performance Diploma

School of Theatre:

Undergraduate: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting, Theatre Arts (Design, Production, Management), BA in Theatre Arts
Graduate: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Acting, Directing, Design, Playwriting, Theatre Education

School of Visual Arts:

Undergraduate: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Design, Photography
Graduate: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Design, Photography