B.A. in Art & Design: Studio Art
Combine hands-on studio practice with modern visual design principles to build a professional portfolio and launch your creative career.
Expand Your Impact
in Studio Art
In the Studio Art concentration, we nurture independent and creative thinkers. We emphasize that art has the power to communicate, inspire emotion, and transform the world around us. Our program builds a close-knit environment where students gain the confidence and skills to make, analyze, understand, and appreciate all forms of art.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts in Art & Design: Studio Art
Total Credits: 120
Format: In-seat, classroom and lab settings
Program
Overview
Students in the Studio Art program can pick from two tracks. The 2-D track focuses on traditional and contemporary practices in painting, mixed media, drawing, and printmaking. Our courses explore various media while building formal, technical, and conceptual skills. Graduates from the 2-D program will be prepared to pursue a master’s degree, work as a professional artist or work in a variety of careers in the fine art field.
The 3-D track focuses on traditional and contemporary practices in ceramics and sculpture. This track has a strong emphasis on ceramics, where you will be taught hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques using traditional processes and contemporary practices. Our courses explore various media while building formal, technical, and conceptual skills. Graduates from the 3-D program will be prepared to work as ceramics artists and pursue a master’s degree and a variety of careers in the fine arts field.
Who This
Program Is For
The Emerging Artist
Students who are passionate about creating original artwork and developing their personal artistic voice. They are motivated to explore a variety of media, techniques, and concepts while building a strong body of work.
The Creative Explorer
Students who enjoy experimenting across disciplines such as painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, or mixed media. They are interested in discovering new materials and processes while broadening their artistic skills and perspectives.
The Future Professional Artist
Students who aspire to careers as practicing artists, gallery exhibitors, or freelance creatives. They want to build a professional portfolio, prepare for exhibitions, and gain experience in the business and presentation of art.
The Graduate School Candidate
Students interested in pursuing advanced study in fine arts or related fields. They are motivated to refine their technical and conceptual skills, develop a cohesive portfolio, and prepare for admission into MFA or other graduate programs.
What
You’ll Learn
Students in the Studio Art program develop the creative, technical, and conceptual skills needed to create meaningful and impactful artwork. Through hands-on studio practice, critiques, and portfolio-building experiences, graduates leave prepared to pursue professional artistic careers or advanced study in the arts.
Studio Techniques & Artistic Practice
- Build foundational skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media
- Explore a variety of materials, tools, and processes across multiple disciplines
- Develop craftsmanship and technical proficiency in both traditional and contemporary art practices
Concept Development & Visual Communication
- Learn to communicate ideas, emotions, and concepts through visual form
- Strengthen creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Develop a personal artistic voice and cohesive body of work
Professional Practice & Portfolio Development
- Participate in critiques, exhibitions, and collaborative projects
- Build a professional portfolio for galleries, freelance work, or graduate school applications
- Gain experience in presenting, discussing, and marketing artwork professionally
Curriculum
Overview
The Studio Art curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in artistic principles while encouraging exploration and personal growth across a variety of media. Students balance foundational coursework in technique and theory with hands-on studio experiences, critiques, exhibitions, and advanced projects that prepare them for professional practice or continued academic study.
Program Structure
- General Education & Prerequisites: 47 credits
- Studio Art Coursework: 66 credits
Career &
Outcomes
A studio art degree will help prepare students for a variety of creative careers in fine arts, design, media, and even education. :
- Professional Artist
- Graphic Designer
- Art Director
- Art Curator
- Community Art Educator
- Set Designer
- Illustrator
- Animator
- Photographer
- Creative Director
- Mural Artist
- Freellancer
Many of our students even work as freelancers during their college careers, taking their skills from the classroom to the next level to create independent work for local companies, organizations, and individuals.
Admission
Requirements
Students who are admitted to West Liberty University are able to begin coursework within Studio Art.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
An advisor will be assigned to you upon admission to help guide you through planning your coursework each semester.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
Step 1: Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2: Declare your Studio Art major
Step 3: Review the advising guide and prepare for enrollment
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.