Ready to level up your creative practice? At MICA, graduate study offers time to experiment boldly, think critically, and build your future. MICA activates your creativity—empowering you to unleash your ideas so you can impact your life and the world.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Dive deep into studio practice in programs like Painting, Community Arts, and Graphic Design. MICA’s MFA programs are immersive, hands-on, and mentored by accomplished faculty who are invested in your growth. You’ll push your ideas further, refine your voice, and culminate your journey with a thesis exhibition that brings your work fully into the world.
Master of Arts (MA)
If you’re driven by research, collaboration, and cultural impact, MICA’s MA programs in areas such as Illustration, Social Design, and Art Education blend theory and practice. You’ll engage communities, question assumptions, and develop work that resonates beyond the studio.
Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
Designed for working creatives and emerging leaders, MICA’s MPS programs offer intensive, flexible online learning. Study with industry-leading faculty while sharpening both your creative expertise and professional edge—wherever you are.
Design Leadership (MA/MBA)
In the Design Leadership MA/MBA, combine creative problem-solving with strategic business insight. Earn an MA in Design Leadership from MICA and an MBA from Johns Hopkins Carey Business School—at the same time, in less time, and at a lower cost than pursuing them separately. It’s a powerful path for creatives ready to lead complex organizations and shape the future of innovation.
With state-of-the-art facilities and deep connections to Baltimore’s vibrant arts community, MICA offers a graduate experience that is rigorous, supportive, and future-focused. Whether you’re refining your studio practice, expanding your research, or stepping into leadership, MICA is your launchpad.
Your next chapter starts here. Apply now.
Deadlines and programs
The Round II deadline for applications is March 19, for residential MFA and MA graduate study that begins this summer and fall of 2026, 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) is offered in conjunction with Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School. Round III applications for the Fall Term of the MA/MBA program are due by March 18.
Online Master of Professional Studies (MPS)
The MPS program deadline for the Summer Term is April 27, and the Fall Term deadline is August 17. Business For Creatives (MPS) / Data Analytics and Visualization (MPS) / Product Management (MPS) / UX Design (MPS).
For more information about programming or to begin an application, visit our website.
About MICA
Founded in 1826, the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is the nation’s oldest, independent, continuous degree-granting college of art and design. MICA delivers an education that combines a fine arts foundation with the liberal arts and real-world experiences. Through creative entrepreneurship, professional practice, and community and industry partnerships, MICA graduates build sustainable careers and support the creative economy in Baltimore and beyond.
