The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) at George Mason University is a premier institution dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and artistic excellence in the heart of Northern Virginia. As one of the leading arts colleges in the region, CVPA offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment where students can explore their passions in visual arts, music, theater, dance, film, and arts management. With state-of-the-art facilities, a distinguished faculty of working artists and scholars, and a commitment to community engagement, CVPA prepares students for successful careers in the arts and beyond. Whether you’re an aspiring performer, visual artist, or arts administrator, CVPA provides the tools, resources, and opportunities to turn your artistic vision into reality.

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Overview and Mission

The College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University is committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, performers, and creative professionals. The college’s mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that integrates rigorous academic training with hands-on artistic practice. CVPA emphasizes the importance of creativity as a vital component of human expression and cultural understanding, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to the global arts community. The college’s programs are designed to cultivate technical proficiency, critical thinking, and a deep appreciation for the arts, while also encouraging innovation and collaboration across disciplines.

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Academic Programs

CVPA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its five schools: the School of Art, the School of Dance, the School of Music, the School of Theater, and the Arts Management Program. Each school provides specialized training and a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the unique needs of its students.

1. School of Art: The School of Art offers programs in studio art, graphic design, photography, and art education. Students have access to cutting-edge facilities, including digital labs, printmaking studios, and sculpture workshops. The school emphasizes both traditional techniques and contemporary practices, encouraging students to develop their own artistic voice.
2. School of Dance: Known for its innovative approach to dance education, the School of Dance offers programs in performance, choreography, and dance education. Students train in a variety of styles, including ballet, modern, and jazz, and have opportunities to perform in professional-quality productions. The school also emphasizes the importance of dance as a form of cultural expression and social engagement.
3. School of Music: The School of Music provides comprehensive training in performance, composition, music education, and music technology. With a faculty of internationally renowned musicians, the school offers a rich array of ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, jazz bands, and chamber groups. Students also benefit from the school’s strong connections to the vibrant music scene in Washington, D.C.
4. School of Theater: The School of Theater offers programs in acting, design, production, and theater education. Students gain hands-on experience through a robust production schedule that includes plays, musicals, and experimental works. The school’s faculty includes working professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom.
5. Arts Management Program: This unique program prepares students for careers in arts administration, cultural policy, and nonprofit management. Combining coursework in business, policy, and the arts, the program equips students with the skills needed to lead and sustain arts organizations in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.

Facilities and Resources

CVPA boasts world-class facilities that support artistic creation and performance. The college is housed in the state-of-the-art Arts Complex on George Mason University’s Fairfax campus, which includes:

• Concert Hall: A 1,900-seat venue with exceptional acoustics, hosting performances by students, faculty, and guest artists.
• Theater Spaces: Multiple performance venues, including the 500-seat Harris Theatre and the flexible black box TheaterSpace.
• Art Studios: Spacious and well-equipped studios for painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art.
• Dance Studios: Large, sunlit studios with sprung floors, mirrors, and barres for dance training and rehearsals.
• Music Practice Rooms: Soundproof practice rooms equipped with pianos and other instruments.
• Film and Media Labs: Advanced labs for film production, editing, and sound design.

In addition to these facilities, CVPA students have access to the university’s extensive library resources, including special collections in the arts, as well as technology centers and maker spaces.

Faculty and Alumni

CVPA’s faculty comprises accomplished artists, scholars, and educators who are leaders in their respective fields. Many faculty members maintain active professional careers, bringing real-world experience and industry connections to the classroom. The college also regularly hosts visiting artists and scholars, providing students with opportunities to learn from a diverse range of perspectives.

CVPA alumni have gone on to achieve success in a variety of artistic and professional endeavors. Graduates have performed on Broadway, exhibited in major galleries, composed award-winning music, and led prominent arts organizations. The college’s strong alumni network provides valuable mentorship and career opportunities for current students.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

CVPA is deeply committed to engaging with the broader community and fostering a vibrant arts culture. The college collaborates with local schools, arts organizations, and cultural institutions to provide outreach programs, workshops, and performances. CVPA also partners with the Hylton Performing Arts Center, a premier venue located on George Mason University’s Science and Technology Campus, which hosts a wide range of performances and events throughout the year.

Student Life and Opportunities

CVPA offers a rich and supportive environment for students to grow as artists and individuals. The college provides numerous opportunities for students to showcase their work, including exhibitions, concerts, theater productions, and dance performances. Students can also participate in student organizations, such as the Mason Art Guild, Mason Dance Company, and Mason Players, which foster creativity and camaraderie.

In addition to on-campus activities, CVPA students have access to internships, study abroad programs, and professional development opportunities. The college’s location in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area provides unparalleled access to cultural resources, including museums, theaters, and performance venues.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admission to CVPA is competitive and based on a combination of academic achievement, artistic talent, and potential. Prospective students must submit a portfolio, audition, or other evidence of artistic ability, depending on their chosen program. The college also considers letters of recommendation, personal statements, and academic transcripts.

CVPA is committed to making arts education accessible and affordable. The college offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to support students in pursuing their artistic goals. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, talent, and financial need.

Study Visual and Performing Arts at GMU

The College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University is a vibrant and inclusive community where creativity thrives. With its exceptional programs, world-class facilities, and commitment to artistic excellence, CVPA provides students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the arts and beyond. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, performer, or arts administrator, CVPA offers a transformative educational experience that will prepare you for a fulfilling and impactful career in the arts.

Academic Programs Offered at the College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University

The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) at George Mason University offers a diverse array of academic programs across its five schools: the School of Art, School of Dance, School of Music, School of Theater, and Arts Management Program. These programs are designed to provide students with rigorous academic training, hands-on artistic practice, and professional preparation. Below is a comprehensive list of all programs offered, categorized by school, with detailed descriptions and durations.

School of Art

The School of Art provides programs that blend traditional techniques with contemporary practices, fostering creativity and technical proficiency in visual arts.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art and Visual Technology

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: This program offers concentrations in Graphic Design, Photography, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, and New Media. Students develop a strong foundation in art theory, history, and practice, with opportunities to exhibit their work in professional galleries.
  • Highlights: Access to state-of-the-art studios, digital labs, and exhibition spaces.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art and Visual Technology

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: A more flexible program that allows students to explore multiple disciplines within the visual arts while completing a broader liberal arts education.
  • Highlights: Ideal for students interested in double majors or minors outside the arts.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual and Performing Arts

1. • Duration: 2-3 years
   • Description: A terminal degree program for advanced study in visual arts. Students work closely with faculty to develop a professional portfolio and participate in solo and group exhibitions.
   • Highlights: Emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and professional practice.

Minor in Art and Visual Technology

• • Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years alongside a major)
  • Description: Provides foundational knowledge in visual arts for students pursuing other majors.
  • Highlights: Flexible coursework in studio art, art history, and digital media.

School of Dance

The School of Dance offers programs that combine technical training with creative exploration, preparing students for careers in performance, choreography, and education.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: A professional training program with concentrations in Performance, Choreography, and Dance Education. Students study ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance techniques, as well as dance history and theory.
  • Highlights: Opportunities to perform in faculty and student-choreographed productions.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: A broader program that combines dance training with a liberal arts education. Ideal for students interested in double majors or interdisciplinary studies.
  • Highlights: Focus on dance as a cultural and social practice.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Dance

• • Duration: 2-3 years
  • Description: An advanced program for experienced dancers and choreographers. Students develop their artistic voice through intensive studio work, research, and performance.
  • Highlights: Opportunities to collaborate with professional dance companies.

Minor in Dance

• • Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years alongside a major)
  • Description: Provides foundational training in dance techniques and theory for non-majors.
  • Highlights: Open to students from all disciplines.

School of Music

The School of Music offers comprehensive programs in performance, composition, education, and technology, supported by a faculty of internationally renowned musicians.

Bachelor of Music (BM)

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Concentrations:
    • Performance (Instrumental, Vocal, Jazz Studies)
    • Composition
    • Music Education
    • Music Technology
  • Description: A professional degree program with rigorous training in music theory, history, and performance. Students participate in ensembles, recitals, and masterclasses.
  • Highlights: Access to state-of-the-art recording studios and performance venues.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music

1. • Duration: 4 years
   • Description: A flexible program that combines music studies with a liberal arts education. Ideal for students interested in double majors or interdisciplinary studies.
   • Highlights: Focus on music as a cultural and historical phenomenon.

Master of Music (MM)

• • Duration: 2 years
  • Concentrations:
    • Performance
    • Composition
    • Conducting
    • Music Education
  • Description: An advanced program for musicians seeking to refine their skills and knowledge. Students perform in ensembles, conduct research, and present recitals.
  • Highlights: Opportunities to collaborate with professional musicians and ensembles.

Minor in Music

• • Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years alongside a major)
  • Description: Provides foundational training in music theory, history, and performance for non-majors.
  • Highlights: Open to students from all disciplines.

School of Theater

The School of Theater offers programs that prepare students for careers in acting, design, production, and education.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theater

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Concentrations:
    • Acting
    • Design and Technical Theater
    • Theater Education
  • Description: A professional training program with a strong emphasis on practical experience. Students participate in productions, workshops, and internships.
  • Highlights: Access to professional-quality theaters and design studios.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theater

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: A broader program that combines theater studies with a liberal arts education. Ideal for students interested in double majors or interdisciplinary studies.
  • Highlights: Focus on theater as a cultural and social practice.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theater

• • Duration: 2-3 years
  • Concentrations:
    • Acting
    • Design and Technical Theater
  • Description: An advanced program for theater professionals seeking to refine their craft. Students work on productions, conduct research, and collaborate with industry professionals.
  • Highlights: Opportunities to work with professional theater companies.

Minor in Theater

• • Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years alongside a major)
  • Description: Provides foundational training in theater techniques and theory for non-majors.
  • Highlights: Open to students from all disciplines.

Arts Management Program

The Arts Management Program prepares students for careers in arts administration, cultural policy, and nonprofit management.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Arts Management

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: Combines coursework in business, policy, and the arts. Students gain practical experience through internships and projects with arts organizations.
  • Highlights: Focus on leadership, fundraising, and audience development.

Master of Arts (MA) in Arts Management

• • Duration: 2 years
  • Description: An advanced program for professionals seeking to lead and sustain arts organizations. Students conduct research, complete internships, and develop strategic plans.
  • Highlights: Strong connections to the Washington, D.C., arts community.

Minor in Arts Management

• • Duration: Varies (typically 1-2 years alongside a major)
  • Description: Provides foundational knowledge in arts administration for non-majors.
  • Highlights: Open to students from all disciplines.

Interdisciplinary and Cross-School Programs

CVPA encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and offers programs that span multiple schools.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Film and Video Studies

• • Duration: 4 years
  • Description: A collaborative program with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Students study film production, screenwriting, and film history.
  • Highlights: Access to film studios, editing labs, and industry-standard equipment.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interdisciplinary Arts

• • Duration: 2-3 years
  • Description: A terminal degree program for artists working across disciplines. Students develop a professional portfolio and present their work in exhibitions or performances.
  • Highlights: Emphasis on innovation and experimentation.

The College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University offers a rich and diverse array of programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring artists, performers, and arts professionals. With its world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to excellence, CVPA provides students with the tools and opportunities to succeed in the arts and beyond.

College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University Contact Information:

For inquiries, admissions, or general information about the College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) at George Mason University, please use the following contact details. All links are clickable for easy access.

Address

College of Visual and Performing Arts
George Mason University
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
USA

Phone

• Main Office: +1 (703) 993-8877
• Admissions Office: +1 (703) 993-2400

Email

• General Inquiries: cvpa@gmu.edu
• Admissions: cvpaadmissions@gmu.edu
• School of Art: art@gmu.edu
• School of Dance: dance@gmu.edu
• School of Music: music@gmu.edu
• School of Theater: theater@gmu.edu
• Arts Management Program: artsmanagement@gmu.edu

Website

• Official CVPA Website: https://cvpa.gmu.edu

Social Media Accounts

• Facebook: CVPA at George Mason University
• Instagram: @cvpa_gmu
• Twitter/X: @CVPA_GMU
• YouTube: CVPA GMU
• LinkedIn: College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason University