Studio Art, B.A., B.S., B.F.A.
Each studio art degree integrates the values of a liberal education while preparing graduates for intensive engagement with the production and examination of the visual arts.
Program Overview
Students can pursue an emphasis in ceramics, graphic design, illustration, jewelry and metalsmithing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and visual studies. The program is fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
A studio art minor is also offered, requiring completion of eight courses.
Why Study the Visual Arts at Grand Valley?
- Incorporate creativity with the consideration of broader ethical, historical, scientific, and cultural ideas, fostering work that contributes to the public dialogue about those ideas.
- Work in small classes that ensure individualized attention from faculty at all levels of the program.
- Complete coursework in state-of-the-art facilities that ensure students acquire the skills essential for their chosen media.
- Benefit from a program that encourages collaboration across emphasis areas to support students' individual interests.
- Acquire the expertise necessary for participation in arts communities and for self-advocacy after graduation.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at the Grand Valley Allendale Campus.
- Face To Face
Coursework
During their first year, studio art majors focus on the foundations courses that introduce them to technical and conceptual approaches to the visual arts. As students continue in the program they create a personal body of work under the supervision of faculty mentors in their emphasis area. For information about admission to the program, please visit the department website.
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.Admission Requirements
Students admitted to Grand Valley who are pursuing studio arts degrees will receive a materials packet explaining the portfolio entrance. The student is then responsible for following the instructions in the packet. In addition, film and video production, graphic design, and illustration require a secondary admission. Students can find details on the website or consult with their academic advisor. More information regarding application for studio art and art education admission is available online at www.gvsu.edu/vma/.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Department of Visual and Media Arts
gvsu.edu/vma
1105 Alexander
Calder Art Center
(616) 331-3486
“Grand Valley really gave me the essential foundations of art making. I don't believe that my work would be as strong as it is if I had not gone there. The faculty gave me key knowledge of what it is to be an artist and how to survive outside the educational environment. I really had an idea of what to do once I left school.”
FINE ARTS ALUMNA