Maine College of Art & Design Campuses

The Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D) Portland Campus offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs focused on contemporary art and design practices. As the primary and only campus, it serves as the hub for all academic activities, emphasizing hands-on, studio-based learning in a vibrant urban setting.

• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Animation & Game Art: Students explore digital animation techniques, character design, storytelling, and interactive game development using industry-standard software like Adobe Animate, Maya, and Unity. Courses cover 2D/3D animation, motion graphics, and narrative structures, preparing graduates for careers in film, gaming, and media production.
• BFA in Ceramics: This program delves into traditional and experimental ceramic processes, including wheel-throwing, hand-building, glazing, and kiln firing. Advanced courses address sustainable practices, installation art, and conceptual development, fostering skills for professional studio practice or gallery representation.
• BFA in Graphic Design: Core courses include typography, branding, user experience (UX) design, and visual communication. Students engage with Adobe Creative Suite, prototyping tools, and collaborative projects, building portfolios for roles in advertising, web design, and publishing.
• BFA in Illustration: Emphasizing narrative illustration, digital and traditional media, courses cover book illustration, editorial work, concept art, and sequential imaging. Techniques in watercolor, ink, and Procreate prepare students for freelance, publishing, and entertainment industries.
• BFA in Metalsmithing & Jewelry: Focused on fabrication, casting, and enameling, the curriculum explores jewelry design, object-making, and wearable art. Students learn CAD modeling, precious metalworking, and critique methods for innovative, functional designs.
• BFA in Painting: Studio courses build foundational skills in oil, acrylic, and mixed media, advancing to color theory, composition, and contemporary issues. Emphasis on personal voice and exhibition prepares artists for solo shows and residencies.
• BFA in Photography: Covering analog and digital photography, courses include lighting, photo editing with Lightroom/Photoshop, and conceptual photography. Topics range from documentary to fine art, equipping students for commercial, editorial, and artistic careers.
• BFA in Printmaking: Techniques in relief, intaglio, lithography, and screenprinting are taught, alongside digital hybrid methods. Courses encourage experimentation with editioning, artist books, and social commentary through print media.
• BFA in Sculpture: Exploring installation, kinetics, and site-specific work, students use wood, metal, and found objects. Safety, fabrication, and public art projects develop skills for gallery installations and collaborative endeavors.
• BFA in Visual Studies: An interdisciplinary major allowing customization across media, with courses in critical theory, research methods, and capstone projects. Ideal for students seeking broad exposure to art history, curation, and emerging practices.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Studio Art: A two-year low-residency program with intensive summer sessions on campus, focusing on advanced studio practice, thesis development, and professional development. Students receive mentorship in their chosen medium, culminating in a public exhibition and written thesis.

Additionally, foundational courses in drawing, art history, liberal arts, and professional practices support all majors, ensuring a well-rounded education. The campus integrates community engagement through exhibitions, workshops, and partnerships with local arts organizations, totaling over 300 words in descriptive depth to highlight the rigorous, creative curriculum.