Maine College of Art

[EduCativ]

Located in the heart of the Portland Arts District, Maine College of Art offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts, a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art, a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Salt Graduate Certificate in Documentary Studies, as well as Continuing Studies for adults and youths, including a Pre-College intensive for high school students.
The College has transformed a former department store into the main campus building with vibrant classrooms and studios open 24/7. Also located in the Porteous Building, the Institute of Contemporary Art at MECA serves a critical regional role in its commitment to presenting contemporary, provocative work by living artists from Maine and worldwide. The Joanne Waxman Library is one of the largest independent libraries in Northern New England.
At MECA, undergraduate students spend the first year developing a foundation and the second year exploring various media. At the start of junior year, students declare a major and spend the next two years working within their discipline.
MECA offers 11 majors in the BFA program: Animation & Game Art, Ceramics, Graphic Design, Illustration, Metalsmithing & Jewelry, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Textile & Fashion Design, and Woodworking & Furniture Design. The College provides individual studios to all juniors and seniors. MECA is part of a five-college alliance that allows students to access classes and resources in the surrounding area. MECA is a non-profit institution of higher education that is both NEASC and NASAD accredited.
Maine College of Art educates artists for life. MECA will be distinguished by focusing on educating highly accomplished artists and designers who excel in their chosen field with integrity, professionalism, and community leadership.
For us, the studio is a public and a private place where the artist undertakes research, experimentation, reflection, collaboration, and problem-solving, all in preparation for creating and presenting meaningful artwork. Students learn that a lively and enduring studio practice will allow them to become creative agents worldwide.
Our curriculum supports our students' creative spirit, empowering them to become artists, citizens, and entrepreneurs. A structured and sequenced program in visual language, academic studies, and public engagement, with a wide range of choices, prepares students to transition into fulfilling and successful careers.
MECA's immersive, rigorous, interdisciplinary approach is informed by a strong liberal arts foundation and a deep commitment to studio practice. We believe in holistic education. We will help you crystallize your passion into a transformative learning experience.
Not only do we understand that you are different, but we all also thrive on those differences. That is why at MECA, we offer so many possibilities so that you can find your place.
You will learn the history of art, design principles, and current influences and points-of-view while exploring any art form that interests you. Here declaring your major starts with claiming your space – setting up your studio where you can push the boundaries of your work.
At MECA, you will receive individualized attention from faculty and staff that you need to grow as an artist and strengthen your work, and this begins with the application process. The MECA Admissions team can work with you to make sure you are putting your most robust possible application forward. We review hundreds of portfolios each year, both in-person and online, and it is our job to help you put together your best work – ask for help. When evaluating applications, we look for all of your strengths with consideration given to your portfolio and academic achievements. Each applicant is considered for merit-based scholarships upon acceptance to the College. We invite applications from students who will contribute to our student body's diversity, including traditional high school applicants, transfers, non-traditional and international students, and veterans.
This is home. It is where you will find a sense of camaraderie, mindfulness, and mutual respect. It is where you will build friendships that last a lifetime. You have chosen a way of life. Whether you want to be an artist, entrepreneur, designer, multi-media artist, or furniture maker, we understand this is personal. Just as there is no one quite like you, there is no place quite like MECA, either. MECA helps you live, breathe, and dream true the things that mean the most to you.
MECA is committed to making our exceptional educational experience affordable. Welcoming students of all income levels is at the heart of who we are. When financial aid is factored in, many students are surprised to find that the cost of attending MECA is comparable to or less than that of a state school.
Maine College of Art welcomes applications from international students. Due to the time involved in fulfilling legal requirements, it is recommended that international applicants submit all application materials six months before the start of the semester.
Maine College of Art welcomes the diversity and range of experience that transfer students bring to our community. We are committed to transferring as many of your previously earned credits as possible. Members of our Admissions staff are available to meet with you to review your transcripts and determine how your previously earned credits will apply to MECA's curricular requirements.

View full university