Student Experience
A close-knit community where big ideas thrive.
What's it like to be a student at SMFA at Tufts? Let's just say it's not a typical art school experience. Here, you’ll create a curriculum customized to your interests and goals, experience academic and student life on two distinct, vibrant campuses, and take advantage of everything Tufts University and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, have to offer. You'll explore new concepts and mediums, make new friends and professional contacts, and learn why Boston is a great place to study and make art. And you'll do it alongside faculty, mentors, art professionals, and peers who challenge and support you through every part of your journey.
Ask students why they're here, and they'll tell you SMFA gives them the resources, space, and support they need to make art that matters.
Studio Resources
The SMFA studio manager team helps students make the most of our more than 25 on-campus studios, labs, and other creative spaces.
Mentorship and Advising
From offering study strategies and writing workshops to tutoring and time management tips, our advisors and faculty mentors support you throughout your academic journey.
Career Center
Explore potential career paths, develop professional skills, and maximize opportunities across the arts and creative disciplines.
SMFA Library
The W. Van Alan Clark, Jr. Library features a rich collection of catalogs, artist books, historical texts, periodicals, zines and more, and hosts events throughout the year.
Exhibition Opportunities
Our Exhibitions team and faculty help students design and mount exhibits across our campuses, at external venues, and even at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
Artist Talks and Visits
Learn about the numerous ways you can learn from and interact with visiting artists at SMFA.
Fellowships, Awards and Grants
Learn about the many awards, grants, and fellowships available to SMFA students.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice
Learn about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice at SMFA at Tufts.
Sustainability at Tufts
Join SMFA and Tufts University in supporting efforts to reduce our collective impact on the environment.
Housing and Dining
Learn more about our housing and dining options.
Health and Wellness
Our state-of-the-art fitness center and athletic facilities, as well as medical and mental health services, offer plenty of ways for you to stay balanced and healthy.
Getting Around
Our students divide their time between the Boston SMFA campus in the Fenway neighborhood and the Medford/Somerville campus.
Activities and Organizations
With more than 300+ student-run clubs and organizations, there are countless ways to do what you love, broaden your horizons, and take advantage of all that Tufts has to offer.
Art Store
Ranked one of the top five art stores in Boston, the SMFA Art Store is a one-stop-shop for materials, educational resources, and insights from exceptionally knowledgeable staff.