> The MA is an interim degree that can lead to an MFA or a PhD.

I have to put in my two cents. An MA is not an interim to an MFA or Ph.D. It
can stand all on its own. An MA and MFA are both master's degrees. An MA is
broader including more liberal arts, humanities, etc. An MFA is a master's
in studio art courses, which can also include art history courses and
anatomy. As far as I know, there is still no doctorate in studio arts--an
MFA is as far as you can go.

I mentioned that I pursued an MA rather than an MFA, in order to be able to
teach the humanities side-- such as art history (I majored in Chinese art
history and Chinese language). This area is tremendously competitive for
advanced degrees, because it usually comes down to the ivy league schools.
At some you cannot even apply unless you have previously travelled to Asia.
When it comes to teaching, most colleges and all universities require a
Ph.D. except in studio art--it doesn't exist. But artists who teach at this
level have to show an outstanding exhibition record and publications to gain
a teaching slot (and a reputation in the art world.)

Terri McNichol
Ren Associates
Princeton, NJ
USA

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