The decision of where to attend college weighs as heavily on parents as it does their children. Perhaps even more so. That’s why MCA offers this special section of our website dedicated solely to the type of information parents crave. Check back often to get the last facts, figures, and updates that will help you counsel your future collegian.

Click here to find out what you can do with a BFA from Memphis College of Art

Parent Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What important deadlines do I need to know about?

Answer: Parents should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form as soon after the prior year taxes have been filed as possible. Tennessee residents should complete the FAFSA form by February 12 to qualify for state grants. The scholarship deadline for fall applicants to apply for MCA large named awards is March 31. Applications for admissions are accepted on a rolling basis and scholarships determined during the admission review process after March 31.

2. Will my artist student be able to find a career and make a living in the visual arts?

Answer: We believe that there has never been a better time to be an artist! Our Career Services Office works with students during fall orientation to begin laying out the path to a viable career in the arts. Internships, resume-building, volunteer positions, summer job and free-lance opportunities, professional practices class and many other experiences are provided to prepare students for a profession in the arts. The best path for anyone is the path for which they have a passion. Students that pursue their passion will be most successful.

3. Does Memphis College of Art offer liberal studies courses?

Answer: Yes, all the requirements to earn a BFA degree are offered at Memphis College of Art. Liberal Studies (or general education courses) are taught by our faculty, here at our facility. MCA does offer additional liberal studies courses through a consortium with Rhodes College and Christian Brothers University giving students more choice in their course selection. Students are required to take Writing, Science or Math, art history, social science, literature, and a number of electives.

4. How safe is the area?

Answer: MCA is located in beautiful Overton Park, a 344 acre wooded park in midtown Memphis with campus housing and buildings adjacent to the park on Poplar Avenue. The college staffs its own security team and three guards are always on staff making rounds and answering a 24-hour emergency number that students can call for assistance at anytime. For safety, security, and convenience, we run van transportation from the housing to the main building in the park every hour on the hour evenings and mornings during the week.

5. How can we afford MCA over four years?

Answer: Affordability is often a concern for parents. Memphis College of Art scholarships are awarded based on merit and college money can also be awarded based on family income. We encourage students to apply for admissions and scholarships and compare us at the bottom line to their other college choices. We also encourage all students to apply for Federal Student Aid (through the FAFSA form) to see other eligibility. Additionally, once students attend MCA, merit scholarships can be awarded each year to students by faculty nomination.

Parents, please feel free to contact us with other questions that you may have. smiller@mca.edu or cruffer@mca.edu