PAFA FORWARD
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts is refocusing on its core mission to tell the story of American art and to provide arts education for the full lifecycle of the artist. Our blueprint for the future includes a dynamic new vision of PAFA as the center of an “arts ecosystem” that will inspire the next generation of artists and art lovers.
Today’s rapidly changing and increasingly complex higher educational environment requires PAFA to evolve and adapt its educational goals. Although we are incredibly proud of our time as a degree-granting institution and the achievements of our distinguished faculty, staff, students, and graduates, PAFA will wind down its Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees, graduating its final class in 2025.
While our BFA and MFA programs are ending, we strongly believe that learning is a lifelong pursuit. As such, our commitment to arts education remains unwavering. Artists of all experience levels and from all walks of life will continue to find space for creativity, innovation, inspiration, and collaboration at PAFA. On this site, you will learn how we plan to support our students and community through this transition to a dynamic and more impactful future.
Our top priority is to provide support to our students, faculty, staff, and community throughout this difficult transition. For resources and more information, visit this page.
How Does This Affect Me?
FAQ
For answers to common questions about this transition, visit this page.
PAFA’s Community
PAFA, above all, is a community of artists and art lovers. Although the College’s degree-granting programs were established just more than a decade ago, they have greatly enhanced our devoted community of alumni, supporters, and friends, all who are an integral part of our future. As we refocus our educational mission on lifelong learning, we also will adapt to the future by reimagining PAFA as a regional, creative hub that offers a truly unique experience. We remain committed to protecting, promoting, and celebrating American art and artists, and look forward to the opportunity to include many other creative artists and organizations in our plans.
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Future of PAFA
Learn how PAFA is returning to its roots by elevating essential parts of its core mission.
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The Transition
Learn more about the process that guided this decision.
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Our Educational Partners
Learn about the institutions working with PAFA to support our students through transfer agreements.
Have questions about this transition? Check out the FAQ page to read answers to commonly asked questions.