Western Carolina University’s Bachelor of Fine Art program in studio art focuses on working with students to carve out their place in the larger cultural landscape, and places high value on creativity, critical thinking, project development, community engagement and collaboration, as well as mastery of technique and craftsmanship. Students engage with traditional modes of expression like painting, drawing, sculpting, welding, throwing pots, and lithographic printmaking while also working with digital platforms creating animations and utilizing 3D printing.
In our program, you will discover a faculty of art and design practitioners with a diverse range of creative capabilities working alongside our students. They bring to the studio and classroom a commitment to the process of innovation and skill building as well as their range of experience as recognized makers, collaborators, and researchers.
Our well-equipped facilities, robust national visiting artist program, university research outlets, and partnerships with regional and national cultural institutions all contribute to support the individual diversity and collective growth of our students. This prepares them to be flexible, competent globally minded individuals, who can engage and collaborate with professionals in a wide variety of fields and cultural contexts, to assume the challenges of our times.
If you have ever wondered about what it would be like to run an independent art studio, become a muralist or storybook illustrator, work in a museum, or open a pottery shop, completing the BFA curriculum will prepare students for a career or post-graduate study in art, design, or related disciplines. Program offerings allow students to explore a specific area of study while following a rigorous art curriculum. Here at the School of Art and Design, our emphasis in Studio Art is created for students who wish to hone their focus on an individual studio practice.
Learn more about our programs:
BFA ART EDUCATION EMPHASIS This program will prepare students as artist-teachers to meet the needs of diverse student populations. It begins with a Bachelor of Fine Art with an emphasis in Art Education and, if students want to further their education, they can explore our M.A. in Education or M.A. in Teaching degrees.
BFA GRAPHIC DESIGN EMPHASIS Our Bachelor of Fine Art with an emphasis in graphic design focuses on developing students' critical thinking skills while exploring contemporary issues. Students develop a strong understanding of formal design principles, creative problem solving and fluency in multiple mediums.
BFA STUDIO ART EMPHASIS Our offerings in studio art include a Bachelor of Fine Art with an emphasis in ceramics, painting and drawing, photography, print and books arts, and sculpture.
