Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) is a renowned, low-residency graduate school dedicated exclusively to the arts, offering transformative educational experiences for writers, visual artists, musicians, and interdisciplinary creators. Located in Montpelier, Vermont, VCFA is celebrated for its unique low-residency model, which combines intensive on-campus residencies with independent, mentored study, allowing students to pursue their artistic passions while balancing personal and professional commitments. With a strong emphasis on creativity, community, and innovation, VCFA has established itself as a leader in fine arts education, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where artists can thrive and push the boundaries of their disciplines.

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History and Mission

Founded in 2008, VCFA emerged from the legacy of Vermont College, which had a long-standing tradition of innovative arts education. The institution was created to provide a dedicated space for artists to explore their craft at the highest level, free from the constraints of traditional academic structures. VCFA’s mission is to empower artists to reimagine and reshape the world through their creative work, fostering a culture of experimentation, collaboration, and critical inquiry. The college is committed to nurturing the artistic voice of each student while promoting the role of the arts in society.

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Academic Programs Overview

VCFA offers a range of graduate programs designed to meet the needs of artists at various stages of their careers. Each program is structured around the low-residency model, which includes two annual residencies on the Montpelier campus and six months of independent study under the guidance of a faculty mentor. This model allows students to immerse themselves in their creative practice while maintaining their personal and professional lives.

1. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Programs
   • Writing: VCFA’s MFA in Writing program is one of the most respected in the country, offering concentrations in fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and writing for children and young adults. The program emphasizes the development of craft, critical thinking, and the exploration of diverse literary traditions.
   • Visual Art: The MFA in Visual Art program encourages students to experiment with a wide range of media and techniques, from painting and sculpture to digital art and installation. The program fosters a deep engagement with contemporary art practices and theory.
   • Music Composition: This program is designed for composers seeking to refine their craft and explore new musical possibilities. Students work closely with faculty mentors to develop their unique compositional voice.
   • Graphic Design: The MFA in Graphic Design program focuses on the intersection of design, technology, and social impact, preparing students to become innovative leaders in the field.
   • Film: The MFA in Film program offers concentrations in screenwriting and directing, providing students with the tools to create compelling, original films.
2. Master of Arts (MA) in Art & Design Education
   This program is tailored for educators who wish to deepen their understanding of art and design education while developing their own artistic practice. The curriculum emphasizes the role of art in social change and the importance of fostering creativity in educational settings.
3. Interdisciplinary Arts (MFA and MA)
   The Interdisciplinary Arts program allows students to explore the intersections of multiple artistic disciplines, creating innovative, hybrid works that challenge traditional boundaries. This program is ideal for artists who work across media and seek to expand their creative horizons.

Low-Residency Model

VCFA’s low-residency model is a cornerstone of its educational philosophy. During the on-campus residencies, students participate in workshops, lectures, critiques, and performances, building a strong sense of community and collaboration. The residencies are followed by six months of independent study, during which students work closely with a faculty mentor to develop their creative projects. This model provides the flexibility and rigor needed for artists to grow and thrive.

Faculty and Mentorship

VCFA’s faculty comprises accomplished artists, writers, and educators who are leaders in their respective fields. Faculty members are deeply committed to mentoring students, offering personalized guidance and support throughout their academic journey. The mentorship model fosters a close, collaborative relationship between students and faculty, enabling students to refine their craft and develop their artistic vision.

Campus and Community

The VCFA campus is located in Montpelier, the capital of Vermont and one of the most picturesque and vibrant small cities in the United States. The campus features historic buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and inspiring spaces for creative work. Montpelier’s thriving arts community provides students with additional opportunities for engagement and collaboration.

VCFA is also deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The college actively works to create an environment where artists from all backgrounds feel welcome and supported. This commitment is reflected in the diversity of its student body, faculty, and programming.

Alumni and Impact

VCFA alumni are making significant contributions to the arts and culture worldwide. Graduates of the college have published award-winning books, exhibited their work in prestigious galleries, composed groundbreaking music, and created impactful films. The VCFA alumni network is a vibrant and supportive community that continues to inspire and connect artists long after graduation.

Commitment to Innovation and Social Change

VCFA is dedicated to using the arts as a catalyst for social change. The college encourages students to explore the role of art in addressing pressing social issues and to create work that has a meaningful impact on the world. Through its programs, residencies, and partnerships, VCFA fosters a culture of innovation and activism, empowering artists to be agents of change.

Admissions and Financial Aid

VCFA seeks passionate, dedicated artists who are committed to advancing their craft and contributing to the arts community. The admissions process is holistic, with a focus on the applicant’s artistic potential and commitment to their discipline. The college offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and payment plans, to make its programs accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Why Study Fine Arts at Vermont College?

The Vermont College of Fine Arts is more than just a graduate school—it is a dynamic community of artists who are redefining the boundaries of creativity and innovation. With its unique low-residency model, world-class faculty, and commitment to artistic excellence, VCFA provides an unparalleled educational experience for artists seeking to deepen their practice and make a lasting impact on the world. Whether you are a writer, visual artist, musician, or interdisciplinary creator, VCFA offers the tools, support, and inspiration you need to achieve your artistic goals.

For more information about the Vermont College of Fine Arts, visit vcfa.edu.

Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) offers a diverse range of graduate programs designed to meet the needs of artists across various disciplines. Each program is structured around VCFA’s unique low-residency model, which combines intensive on-campus residencies with independent, mentored study. Below is a comprehensive list of all academic programs offered at VCFA, categorized by discipline, along with detailed descriptions and program durations.

Academic Programs Offered at Vermont College of Fine Arts

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Programs

VCFA’s MFA programs are designed for artists seeking to deepen their practice, refine their craft, and develop their unique artistic voice. All MFA programs follow the low-residency model, with two annual residencies and six months of independent study per semester.

1. MFA in Writing
   • Concentrations: Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry, Writing for Children & Young Adults
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: This program emphasizes the development of craft, critical thinking, and the exploration of diverse literary traditions. Students work closely with faculty mentors to produce a substantial body of work, culminating in a thesis project. The residencies include workshops, lectures, and readings, fostering a vibrant literary community.
2. MFA in Visual Art
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: This program encourages experimentation across a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, and installation. Students engage with contemporary art practices and theory, developing a cohesive body of work for their thesis exhibition. Residencies feature critiques, studio visits, and discussions with visiting artists.
3. MFA in Music Composition
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: Designed for composers seeking to refine their craft, this program explores traditional and experimental approaches to music composition. Students work with faculty mentors to develop their compositional voice and create original works. Residencies include performances, workshops, and collaborations with musicians.
4. MFA in Graphic Design
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: This program focuses on the intersection of design, technology, and social impact. Students explore innovative design solutions and develop a professional portfolio. Residencies include design critiques, lectures, and collaborative projects, preparing students for leadership roles in the field.
5. MFA in Film
   • Concentrations: Screenwriting, Directing
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: This program provides students with the tools to create compelling, original films. Screenwriting students develop feature-length scripts, while directing students produce short films. Residencies include workshops, screenings, and feedback from industry professionals.

Master of Arts (MA) Programs

VCFA’s MA programs are designed for educators and artists seeking to deepen their knowledge and practice in specific areas of art and design education.

1. MA in Art & Design Education
   • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
   • Description: This program is tailored for educators who wish to integrate art and design into their teaching practice. Students explore the role of art in social change and develop innovative curricula. The program includes a thesis project focused on art education research or practice.

Interdisciplinary Arts Programs

These programs are ideal for artists who work across multiple disciplines and seek to explore the intersections of art forms.

1. MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts
   • Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
   • Description: This program allows students to create hybrid works that challenge traditional boundaries. Students work with faculty mentors to develop a cohesive body of work that integrates multiple artistic disciplines. Residencies include collaborative projects, critiques, and interdisciplinary discussions.
2. MA in Interdisciplinary Arts
   • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
   • Description: This program is designed for artists seeking to explore interdisciplinary practices in a shorter timeframe. Students develop a thesis project that integrates multiple art forms, culminating in a public presentation or exhibition.

Certificate Programs

VCFA also offers certificate programs for artists seeking to enhance their skills in specific areas without committing to a full degree program.

1. Certificate in Graphic Design
   • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
   • Description: This program provides foundational and advanced training in graphic design, focusing on design principles, software skills, and professional practice. Students complete a portfolio project as part of the program.
2. Certificate in Writing
   • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
   • Description: This program offers focused training in creative writing, with concentrations in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or writing for children and young adults. Students work with faculty mentors to develop a portfolio of work.

Program Structure and Residencies

All programs at VCFA follow the low-residency model, which includes:

• Two Annual Residencies: Held on the Montpelier campus, residencies last 8–10 days and include workshops, lectures, critiques, and performances.
• Independent Study: Between residencies, students work remotely with faculty mentors to develop their creative projects.
• Thesis Project: Each program culminates in a thesis project, such as a manuscript, exhibition, composition, or film, which is presented during the final residency.

Summary of Program Durations

• MFA Programs: 2 years (4 semesters)
• MA Programs: 1 year (2 semesters)
• Certificate Programs: 1 year (2 semesters)

VCFA’s academic programs are designed to provide artists with the flexibility, mentorship, and community they need to thrive. Whether you are a writer, visual artist, musician, or interdisciplinary creator, VCFA offers a program tailored to your artistic goals. For more information, visit vcfa.edu.

Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) Contact Information

Address

Vermont College of Fine Arts
36 College Street
Montpelier, VT 05602
USA

Phone Numbers

• Main Phone: 802-828-8600
• Admissions Office: 802-828-8500
• Financial Aid Office: 802-828-8745

Email Addresses

• General Inquiries: info@vcfa.edu
• Admissions: admissions@vcfa.edu
• Financial Aid: finaid@vcfa.edu
• Alumni Relations: alumni@vcfa.edu

Website

• Official Website: https://vcfa.edu

Social Media Accounts

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VermontCollegeofFineArts
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vcfa.edu
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/VCFA
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/vermont-college-of-fine-arts
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VermontCollege