The School of the Oregon Institute for Creative Research
The Graduate Certificate in Critical Theory + Creative Research
The Graduate Certificate in Critical Theory + Creative Research at the Oregon Institute for Creative Research: E4 (Ethics, Æsthetics, Ecology, Education) is an intensive course of study that unites the long and rigorous tradition of critical theory and its emancipatory objectives, the exacting practice of critique, and the emerging domain of creative research in the context of the major developments of the 21st century, including ecological catastrophe, big data, artificial intelligence, surveillance, and the concomitant disappearance of politics as a system of challenge, contest, and negotiation. Besides pursuing their own research, students can become team leaders and stakeholders in one of the Institute's collective projects and initiatives. Although the program can be completed in a single academic year, that is, three terms, especially by those already conversant with critical theory and philosophical thought, many students choose to enroll in the program for a longer period of time, graduating with a major body of research. Final work can take the form of a book in the style of, say, Theodor Adorno’s Minima Moralia: Reflections on Damaged Life, or students can utilize their research in a number of different genres, mediums, and hybrid forms, whether artist book, journal essay, painting, installation, performance, series of op-ed pieces, film, or documentary. Those who complete coursework and a compelling final project after a minimum of one year of study at the Institute are eligible to receive the Graduate Certificate in Critical Theory and Creative Research.
The School offers two options—a Certificate in Critical Theory + Creative Research and a Graduate Certificate in Critical Theory + Creative Research. To qualify for the latter, the applicant must have earned a bachelor’s degree or will earn one prior to entering the program. We encourage applications from students with a wide variety of backgrounds and interests.
The Institute reviews applications on a rolling basis.
To view the application (including the OICR Supplemental Application Procedure: "Eye and Mind."), click here.