Concentration Areas: art education, art history, ceramics, graphic design, painting, photography, sculpture and studio arts
The Department of Visual Arts offers programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), Master of Arts (M.A.), and Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) degrees in art. An undergraduate or graduate concentration area may be selected with a focus in art history, ceramics, graphic design, painting, photography, sculpture, studio arts, or visual art leading to teacher certification in art.
The programs are designed to prepare visual artists, scholars and/or educators who are well grounded in studio art practices, history and criticism of art, and professional practices. The department strives to build the student's awareness of context, purpose, creative and aesthetic inquiry, critical theory and practice, historical and contemporary trends, professional responsibility and personal voice in the visual arts. Integrating studio and theoretical studies, the various programs provide a comprehensive approach to art learning, which facilitates a collaborative, cooperative, and supportive community.
The faculty, staff and students are very active in their pursuits of excellence in their disciplines. Gallery showings, juried exhibitions, conference presentations, publications and positions with many well respected universities and arts organizations are some of the ways that the Department of Visual Arts continues to excel in all areas of the arts.
The Department of Visual Arts will educate and empower students, especially ensuring opportunities for women and minorities, to become leaders in our society through excellence in the visual arts. Visual Arts offers students a variety of ways to engage in art making through practical experience with materials, the study of art theory and history, and critical thinking. Students generate new viewpoints within the art disciplines and are encouraged to contribute to their communities utilizing a new dialogue developed through visual art. Graduates of the Bachelors and Masters programs serve as teachers, leaders, and art professionals in a variety of fine art, educational and commercial art fields.
