Art Major, BA

Program Goals

The goals of the Art Major are the following:

• To offer a program that includes comprehensive studies in computer graphics and studio art.
• To prepare individuals for various art-related careers.
• To provide adequate preparation for the pursuit of graduate work in art.
• To contribute to the visual culture and heritage of the University and community.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the major, the student will be able to:

1. Develop a language in the visual arts through the creation of their own art.
2. Articulate the diverse and global context of art through effective written communication skills.
3. Students develop their artwork for presentation in an exhibition and career development.

Major Requirements

The major programs in art include an option in Computer Graphics or Studio Art requiring a minimum of 39 semester hours (SH).  There are 15 semester hours required of all art majors in foundation courses including the two pre-requisite art courses, which can be taken in general education. Each option has a required set of courses and then allows a choice of four courses from among a set of electives. Students in either concentration may take additional art electives. Participation in the Senior Exhibit is a requirement of all art majors for graduation (see specific requirements below). Students are encouraged to pursue a minor in another field, but no minor is required.

Art majors must earn a minimum grade of C (2.0) in each required course in their respective content areas.

Senior Art Exhibit Criteria for Art Majors

During the senior year art majors are required to participate in the preparation and mounting of the Senior Exhibit at the Diggs Gallery prior to graduation. Candidates must submit a representative number of completed artworks showing competence in their area of study and take part in exhibition activities as planned. Activities include creating exhibition promotional materials, exhibit design, and hosting of opening reception. Five hours per week.

Pre-requisites: Must be a senior and have the approval of the Department of Art + Visual Studies faculty.

Candidates are required to submit exhibition quality works by the date specified prior to the opening of the exhibition.

Works submitted for exhibition consideration are reviewed and approved by faculty of the Department of Art + Visual Studies. Students are responsible for the expense of the creation of their work (i.e. materials and production expenses) as well as any presentation expense (i.e. framing).

Accepted works must:

1. Exhibit an acceptable level of craftsmanship and skill.
2. Demonstrate artistic merit.
3. Fulfill one or more functions that fall in the following categories: educational, aesthetic, historical, social, and political.

Students work together to design and mount the exhibition and host the opening reception. In addition to the exhibition requirement, students must participate in the following activities in preparation for the exhibition.

1. Design posters to advertise the exhibition.
2. Design and distribute announcements.
3. Frame or make artworks display ready.
4. Design exhibit with curator and staff of Diggs Gallery.
5. Paint walls, stands, etc. as necessary.
6. Host opening reception.
7. Disassemble show.