MFA Ranking Criteria: How Schools Are Rated

If you’re hunting for an MFA, you’ve probably seen endless lists of “top” programs. But those lists only make sense if you know what they’re actually measuring. Below you’ll get the real stuff that ranking services look at, and why each point matters to you.

Key Factors Schools Use

First up is faculty reputation. Rankings give extra points to schools where professors have strong exhibition records, published books, or big awards. A teacher who’s actively creating work can open doors for you, whether it’s a studio connection or a recommendation for a gallery show.

Second is student outcomes. This includes graduate employment rates, average salaries, and the types of jobs alumni land. If a program regularly places graduates in teaching positions, prestigious residencies, or successful freelance careers, it scores higher.

Third is resources and facilities. Think about studio space, equipment, library collections, and access to visiting artists. Programs that invest in up‑to‑date tech, well‑stocked fabrication labs, or strong digital media labs tend to get a boost.

Fourth is selectivity and class size. Highly selective schools with small cohorts often rank better because they can offer more one‑on‑one mentorship. But a tiny class isn’t automatically good—look for a balance between intimacy and a vibrant community.

Finally, cost and financial aid play a role. Rankings consider tuition, living expenses, and the availability of scholarships or assistantships. A program that’s pricey but offers generous aid can outrank a cheaper school with no support.

What You Should Look For

All those numbers are useful, but they don’t replace your own goals. If you want to focus on experimental video, a school with a top‑tier media lab matters more than a high overall rank. Make a short list of the factors that line up with your art practice, then filter rankings through that lens.

Don’t forget location. Living costs, community vibe, and nearby galleries affect both your budget and your network. A lower‑ranked school in a bustling art city might give you more real‑world exposure than a higher‑ranked program in a remote town.

Talk to current students. Their day‑to‑day experience explains whether a program’s reputation translates into support, feedback, and opportunities. Ask about mentorship, critique culture, and how the school helps with job hunting.

Use rankings as a starting point, not a final verdict. Combine the data with your personal checklist, campus visits, and conversations. When the pieces line up, you’ll feel confident that the program you pick truly fits your creative path.

Bottom line: rankings boil down to faculty prestige, graduate success, resources, selectivity, and cost. Understanding each piece helps you cut through the hype and choose an MFA that actually moves your career forward.