Does anyone know about the coordinate BFA program at PAFA ad UPENN?

Timkerdes
Wed, 05 Oct 2011 21:58:57 +0000

Basically, from what i’ve researched, you go as a typical certificate student (no liberal arts) at PAFA for a year then you can take classes at UPENN. In the first place you need to apply to UPENN after being admitted to PAFA. You need about a 3.0 to get in. The degree is awarded by UPENN after you have completed 3 years (or 90 credits) worth of studio arts classes, 4 art history classes at UPENN, and have taken 12 classes (anything) in the school of arts and sciences. From what I have read, it is possible to get a minor while taking those 12 classes. (you need at least 6 classes in one subject).

Thats basically the extent of my knowledge on the subject. This program seems pretty interesting to me and I am strongly considering it. However, it kind of has of has a “too good to be true” feeling about it. You get an incredibly focused studio arts program at one of the best fine arts schools in the country, yet you can also get an incredible liberal arts experience at an Ivy league. PAFA is also pretty affordable as far as art schools go and since UPENN is an Ivy it’s need blind. To me this seems to be the best of both worlds. It beats out all liberal arts colleges in terms of studio classes but also beats out all art schools in terms of liberal arts classes. The closest thing it reminds me of is the dual degree brown/RISD program and im surprised more people dont go after this oppurtunity…Which is why I cant shake the feeling that it’s too good to be true.

Of course, this is based on the assumption that one could get accepted to UPENN’s bfa program after being accepted to PAFA. The admissions reps made it sound easy enough ,but im thinking it might be harder than they let on. Is there anything that im not considering or is it really this simple? A good source for the amount of people that get accepted to the coordinated BFA program would be greatly apreciated. I am also intent on going to graduate school (either MFA or M.ARCH) and was wondering if there would be any advantages to getting a fine arts degree from UPENN gives any advantages or if it might be seen as more employable(thats probably too silly to be true but you gotta consider everything).

Much thanks in advance.