Thesis and Exhibition

The thesis statement is a two-five-page discussion of the thesis exhibition that may include its evolution and influences, relevant theoretical and historical inquiries, or other pertinent investigations surrounding the student's work. Acceptance of the final thesis statement must be unanimous by all thesis committee members, who confirm approval with signatures.

The thesis exhibition is a culmination of the candidate's artistic pursuits in the program, presented in the Mason Gross Galleries during the spring semester of the second year. Each student is responsible for scheduling meetings with committee members to discuss and critique his or her thesis exhibition, which must be reviewed and approved by the student's entire thesis committee while on view in the gallery.  

Thesis preparation and selection of the committee begins in the fall semester of the second year of study. Three members of the graduate faculty are chosen by the student with the faculty members' signed approval to serve on the committee. One serves as chair. Throughout the second year these advisers visit the student's studio, become acquainted with the work, suggest readings, offer critical and constructive feedback, and edit the statement. If any member has concerns with the statement or exhibition, it is communicated to the student and remainder of the committee. Students may request that an evaluator outside of the visual arts department become a fourth member of their committee, who is currently employed by Rutgers University and approved by the graduate director.

Grades for both of these 4-credit courses will be assigned in the final semester upon completion, with written approval by all members of the candidate's thesis committee.  Upon recommendation of the faculty and graduate director, students who do not complete their thesis statement or exhibition satisfactorily must register for 08:081:800 Matriculation Continued, resubmit a new thesis statement and/or new exhibition, and delay graduation.