Sponsored-Tuition
A large percentage of the student's tuition is paid through contributions made to the school. As a result the cost of tuition to the SFSS student is approximately one quarter the cost of an MFA program.
Tuition for the Fall 2010 semester is as follows:
The Full-Time Certificate Program: $3950 (15 week semester) + $250
(materials fees) = $4200
Upon acceptance a $500 non-refundable tuition deposit will be due for all incoming students in order to confirm their enrollment. Full-Time tuition is payable in 1, 2 or 3 installments
due the 1st, 7th and 12th weeks of the semester.
The Photography Program: $675 (15 week semester)
The Photography Program tuition is payable in 1 or 2 installments
due the 1st and 7th weeks of the semester.
Tuition Analysis
SFSS in relation to MFA programs
The SF Studio School course of study is comparable to MFA programs. However it is structured to eliminate course fragmentation and provide greater continuity in relation to the study of art than is found within the university system. SFSS costs approximately 75% less than degree granting programs at the master's level. For the student interested in the study of fine art over the degree itself and the extraordinary costs associated with a degree program, SFSS is a significant option.
SFSS in relation to adult education and extension programs
SFSS is not comparable to extension programs. University extension post-baccalaureate certificate programs are generally designed as a combination of personal enrichment and adult education. They are made up of a series of largely independent courses assembled as a program. SFSS is dedicated to continuity, depth and the maturing of students' identity as visual artists through a challenging, cohesive graduate level course of study.
Understanding the SFSS schedule
The program at the SF Studio School is comprised of a balance of approximately 3-hour time periods scheduled to ensure continuity of content and effort. The core sessions offered at SFSS in any given semester are equivalent to more than 6 classes at any other graduate level institution.
Weekly offerings may include a combination of any of the following:
- 6 Hours Drawing: two 3-hour figure drawing sessions weekly
- 6 Hours Painting: one day studio and/or location painting weekly
- 3 Hours Studio Practice: 3-hours special topics weekly
- 3 Hours Critical Studies Seminar: 3-hours lecture/discussion weekly
- 3 Hours Photography Seminar (optional): Numerous drawing and painting students opt to take the photography seminar
The program is challenging and students often choose to schedule their activities in a way that provides them the greatest opportunity to concentrate their efforts. Schedules are determined on an individual basis.
Other required classes include:
- Visual Studies Workshop (1st semester students)
- Visiting Faculty Sessions
- Field Trips
The student's portion of sponsored-tuition for the SFSS program = $3950/semester + $250 (materials/facilities fee).
In comparison, area graduate programs range from $12,500 to $18,000/semester for the equivalent number of classes.
Any student attending the San Francisco Studio School
should be aware that the student is fully responsible for the costs
involved in attending the school. Since the tuition at the school is
already significantly reduced, the school cannot offer additional
financial support.
