I got a master’s degree at UArts over 10 years ago. It was such a unique program, I’m not sure any other school offers it (certainly not one like it) and I’m sure a lot of students that are being promised “seamless” transitions to local universities will find they have nowhere to go.
I loved my time at UArts. Such a shame.
I’m a Philly resident and it’s super shocking. It was always a well-regarded school. What was your program, if you don’t mind me asking?
I’m a Museum Studies grad. Most Museum Studies programs are curatorial in nature - collections management, education curricula, label writing etc. Those programs are typically second Master’s degrees; you go get a PhD in something to become a content specialist, then get a Museum Studies degree to move into being a curator. UArts was so unique because it was focused on exhibition design regardless of content. We were not content specialists and it made us great because we didn’t have a PhD to turn into boring-as-shit exhibit labels; we designed interactive exhibits, did a lot of our own graphic design and fabrication, and focused on visitor experiences first, second, and last. It was the only program for dorks who love museums and want everyone else to love them too, instead of an afterthought or vanity project to add to your resume.
Plus I made some of my best friends of my life there.
