The Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Studio Art is a pre-professional degree that is well suited for students who are primarily interested in developing their conceptual and technical skills to prepare for acceptance into graduate programs and for professional careers as practicing artists in the visual arts and related fields.
The BFA in art is for those students who exhibit strong studio discipline and the desire to pursue studio research in greater depth. The degree requires an additional 24 credits of upper division studio work over the BA/BS degree, emphasizing study in one area of concentration with additional studio work in a second area. Concentration and second area options are ceramics, digital art, painting/drawing, photography, printmaking and sculpture. The BFA Thesis forms a central part of the BFA experience, and candidates must show the ability to investigate and articulate their ideas through independent writing and research.
Students admitted to the program are required to successfully complete a mid-BFA program review, and continuation in the BFA program is dependent upon ongoing good performance in the program.
The final four quarters of the BFA program must be taken in consecutive residence. Students must enroll in a minimum 4 credits in both first and second studio concentrations.
Application to the BFA Program
Application to the BFA program may be made during Fall or Spring term. Check in the Department of Art and Art History office for additional information and for exact dates, location, and requirements of application and portfolio.
To apply to the BFA program, the student must have completed ART 300, Mid-Program Review (transfer students should consult with the department chair regarding curriculum equivalency), have at least sophomore status, and a minimum GPA of 3.25 in Art and Art History. During the application process, the committee evaluates the student’s artist’s statement, academic record, application, and performance in classes with a strong writing component.
Studio Work
The candidate’s studio work must demonstrate a strong understanding of conceptual and formal issues and show clear evidence of ambition, creative development, and strong work ethic. The committee evaluates the candidate’s ability to do focused, independently driven work based on academic record, performance in art classes, and the quality and depth of work submitted for review. The discipline, desire, and ability to maintain regular, sustained studio hours are major criteria for acceptance into the BFA program.
Writing
Demonstration of satisfactory writing and critical thinking ability is a pre-requisite for admission to the BFA program.
