Art, B.F.A.

The College of Arts and Sciences offers an undergraduate major in Fine Arts with three different concentrations toward degree completion. Upon graduation, each student will produce and document a final B.F.A. thesis exhibition or presentation of creative research. As a student in this program you may choose from one of the following pathways:

Studio Art Concentration:

Students with an interest in this concentration will discover a hands-on, inter-disciplinary approach that reflects contemporary art practices. Courses in studio practices such as ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture will enable students to become mature artists in command of diverse materials and capable of expressing an individual view. Capacity for heightened perception and imagination is combined with an awareness of the visual elements and principles of design, artist statements, and art criticism.

Individualized instruction and advisement are offered by dedicated faculty who view themselves not only as teachers but as practicing artists and publishing scholars. The major prepares students to pursue careers as professional artists, provides transferable skills valued by employers, and furthers an engaged citizenry.

Film and Photography Concentration:

The Film and Photography concentration brings together the intertwining applied arts of digital media motion production and still imaging.  Coursework on the path leads to specialized knowledge, creative development, and advanced technological skills. Graduates of the program will work in career areas such as education, documentary and dramatic filmmaking, photographic art and commercial photography, consulting, producing, media writing, direction, and production.

Graphic Design Concentration:

The Graphic Design concentration prepares students for a variety of design-related fields. Students who wish to have a dual career as a graphic designer and artist will have the opportunity to develop employable graphic design skills while furthering their skills as an individual artist. Courses ranging from typography to interactive design prepare students with the critical skills required by employers in the graphic design industry. Upper-level courses allow students to further their knowledge in either print-based graphic design (such as logo/identity design and publication design) or interactive design (designing for websites and apps, etc.) Internships within the university are provided as opportunities to gain real-world experience in graphic design and serve as a foundation for employment afterward.

Coursework in the history of art, design, and film supports all three concentrations within the BFA experience. Students will examine works in a variety of media through foundational knowledge such as formal elements and design principles, but also using historical and theoretical methodologies in order to understand the cultural, social, and political context that informed their making. A global range of topics from antiquity through the contemporary period are examined.

Program Student Outcomes

Upon completion of the BFA in Art, students will:

1. Exhibit skill with fundamental materials, tools, and practices
2. Communicate effectively about their work through a portfolio
3. Apply core professional practices
4. Analyze creative work using theoretical and historical methodologies

Special Admissions Requirements

All students are admitted conditionally. The art faculty members monitor and evaluate student progress continuously. All art students have a mandatory portfolio evaluation within 1 year of enrollment., which includes a review of the student’s creative work by the faculty of the program. The portfolio should include work that best demonstrates artistic development and potential to succeed in the program. Contact the Undergraduate Art Academic Advisor or the Art Program Coordinator for details about process and formatting for the portfolio review.