Applications open for 2025 graduate programs

The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) offers a vibrant and dynamic environment for aspiring artists and creative leaders through its diverse graduate programs. With a commitment to fostering innovation and critical thinking, MICA is a premier destination for those looking to elevate their craft.

MICA’s Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs provide immersive experiences in disciplines like Painting, Community Arts, and Graphic Design. These studio-based programs emphasize hands-on learning, encouraging students to explore their artistic voice under the guidance of accomplished faculty. The MFA experience culminates in a thesis exhibition, showcasing each student’s creative journey.

In addition to MFA offerings, MICA also presents a variety of Master of Arts (MA) programs, focusing on areas such as Illustration, Social Design and Art Education. These programs emphasize research, critical engagement, and community involvement, preparing graduates to impact the cultural landscape meaningfully.

MICA’s Master of Professional Studies degrees offer intensive, online education designed to develop both creative and professional skills. Gain valuable education and experience from industry-leading faculty in a flexible, online delivery format. MICA offers a variety of M.P.S. programs designed to enhance students’ understanding of various fields of study within the design industry.

In the Design Leadership (MA/MBA), you’ll master creative approaches to strategic decision-making while also learning how to apply these skills to complex management challenges and business opportunities. Earn two degrees from two world-renowned institutions at the same time for less money and in less time—a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Johns Hopkins Carey Business School and a Master of Art (MA) in Design Leadership from the Maryland Institute College of Art.

With state-of-the-art facilities and access to Baltimore’s rich arts community, MICA provides a supportive environment for all graduate students. Whether deepening your artistic practice or exploring new avenues in the creative field, MICA’s graduate programs offer the perfect launchpad for your future. 

The Round I deadline for applications is January 19 for residential MFA and MA graduate study beginning in the summer and fall of 2025 for the following programs:

Master of Fine Arts
Community Arts (MFA) / Curatorial Practice (MFA) / Filmmaking (MFA) / Graphic Design (MFA) / Illustration Practice (MFA) / Leroy E. Hoffberger School of Painting (MFA) / Mount Royal School of Art (Multidisciplinary MFA) / Photography + Media & Society (MFA) / Rinehart School of Sculpture (MFA) / Studio Art (Summer Low Residency MFA)

Master of Arts
Graphic Design (MA) / Illustration (MA) / Social Design (MA) / Teaching (MAT).

Online Master of Art / Master of Business Administration
Design Leadership (MA/MBA), offered in conjunction with Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School. Round I applications for the Fall Term of the MA/MBA program are due by February 5.

Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
The MPS program deadline for the Spring Term is January 5 and the Summer Term deadline is April 22. Data Analytics and Visualization (MPS), UX Design (MPS).

For more information about programming or to begin an application, visit our website.

About MICA
Acknowledged nationally as a premier leader in art and design education, the Maryland Institute College of Art is deliberately cultivating a new generation of artists—one that is capable of seamlessly integrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and creative citizenship with contemporary approaches to art, design, and media.

MICA is redefining the role of the artists and designers as creative, solutions-oriented makers and thinkers who will drive social, cultural, and economic advancement for our future. As the oldest continuously degree-granting college of art and design in the nation, MICA is located in Baltimore, deeply connected to the community. It is a leading contributor to the creative economy regionally and a top producer of nationally and internationally recognized professional artists and designers.