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Master of Fine Arts - Visual Development

Academy of Art University

San Francisco campus — San Francisco, California, United States

Study Level
Postgraduate · Master's Degree
Duration
To be confirmed
Study Mode
To be confirmed
Next Intake
February 2027
Tuition Fee
USD 37,908
Application Fee
USD 50
Scholarships Available
None listed
Post-Study Work Information
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Verify before applying
Application Status
Open — confirm with Eagle Link (Not confirmed)

Program information is subject to institution confirmation. Fees, deadlines, intakes and entry requirements may change.

Overview

The Visual Development MFA program provides advanced coursework in still life painting, figure drawing, character design, concept painting, layout design for animation, and other core skills of professional visual developers. The goal of each graduate student is the completion of a signature thesis book showcasing design work for a story-based project. Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria: MFA Thesis Project Present an original thesis concept worthy of the MFA degree Demonstrate the feasibility of their thesis project Produce a professional-standard project, with topical content for the industry, showcasing artistic ability Artistic Ability Demonstrate strong drawing and compositional skills Create value studies that demonstrate an understanding of lighting, composition, and space Research and Critical Thinking Apply visual research to design solutions Demonstrate an understanding of the production pipeline by presenting an effective timeline at the Midpoint Review (MPR only) Collaboration Collaborate effectively to produce creative projects Visual Development Apply color and design elements consistent with the overall look of the film. Design elements to support the narrative Demonstrate continuity in visual storytelling Presentation Skills Create visually compelling, professional-quality presentation materials Pitch ideas clearly and professionally Professional Readiness Produce a professional-level digital and print portfolio suitable for seeking employment within the industry Demonstrate accountability for planning complex projects, prioritizing tasks and meeting project milestones. *Note App Fee Waiver in effect for ApplyBoard to reduce the application fee to $50*
Faculty / school
—
Field of study
—
Credential
Master's Degree
Relationship
Available Through Eagle Link

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements will be confirmed by the institution or authorized partner before application.

English-language requirements

English-language requirements will be confirmed by the institution or authorized partner before application.

Fees & Costs

Tuition fee
USD 37,908
Application fee
USD 50
Deposit required
Not listed
Estimated other compulsory fees
Not listed — confirm with Eagle Link.

Institution fees are paid according to the institution's instructions. Any Eagle Link service fee is shown on an Eagle Link invoice before payment. See our Payments Policy.

Scholarships

No scholarship is currently listed for this program. Explore scholarships and funding.

Scholarships are competitive and may change, close or be withdrawn. Eagle Link does not guarantee that any student will receive a scholarship.

Intakes & Deadlines

Upcoming intakes
February 2027, February 2028, February 2029
Application deadline
Confirm with Eagle Link
Application status
Confirm with Eagle Link
Intake availability
Not confirmed

Campus & Location

San Francisco campus

San Francisco, California, United States

79 New Montgomery St.

San Francisco campus campus, photo 1 San Francisco campus campus, photo 2 San Francisco campus campus, photo 3 San Francisco campus campus, photo 4 San Francisco campus campus, photo 5 San Francisco campus campus, photo 6

Post-Study Work / Immigration Information

Please confirm current eligibility with Eagle Link before applying.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Verify before applying

OPT and STEM OPT eligibility depend on maintaining F-1 status and on the program. A program counts as STEM only when its CIP code is on the official STEM list — not because its name sounds technical.

Official source

Eagle Link does not guarantee visa approval and does not make immigration decisions.

About the Institution

Since 1929, artists and designers have called Academy of Art University their home. Founded in San Francisco and family owned, it is one of the largest private, accredited art and design schools in the nation. Academy of Art University is first and foremost a professional school - a specialized place that helps students master their craft as they prepare for professional roles as artists and designers. The hands-on, no-nonsense curriculum is taught by some of the finest minds working in today’s creative and innovative industries. They will help students develop their talent and acquire skills...

View Academy of Art University

Program information last verified 8 October 2026.

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