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2016-2017 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Studio Art

The B.A. and B.S. programs emphasize breadth of experience over specialization in a single medium. Students complete a more diverse curriculum including coursework in two and three-dimensional disciplines.

Requirements for a Major in Studio Art

Art majors seeking a B.A. or B.S. degree must complete a minimum of 45 credits in art and design.

General Education

In the GVSU general education requirements, the Foundation section lists ART 101 - Introduction to Art as a choice. ART 101 is not required for the B.A. or B.S. in studio art. Some of the material in ART 101 will be duplicated in the required coursework. B.A. and B.S. majors in studio art are advised to take one of the other classes in the general education arts category.

Foundation Courses and Review

After completing the foundations program (ART 150, 151, 152, 155, and 157), all studio art and art education students are evaluated by the faculty during foundations portfolio review for entrance into majors in the Department of Art and Design.

Other Requirements

Students seeking a major in studio art can earn either the B.A. or B.S. degree. Requirements include completion of the following:

1. Art History electives, Credits: 9

2. Two courses in different 2-D areas selected from the following list, Credits: 6

3. Two courses in different 3-D areas selected from the following list, Credits: 6

4. Two studio courses at the 300 level or above, Credits: 6

5. ART 495

Completion of the art history requirements of the B.A. or B.S. program is a prerequisite for ART 495. Students register for a section taught by an art history professor.

B.A. Degree Cognates:

Foreign language (third-semester proficiency in a foreign language).

B.S. Degree Requirements:

Science (three courses)

One course from the following list:

  • SS 300 - Research Methods in the Social Sciences Credits: 3

Suggested Order of Coursework for a Major in Studio Art

A general fine arts curriculum (check specific major requirements with your advisor) working toward a B.S. or B.A. degree.

First Year

Second Year

  • Two courses from art history, Credits: 6
  • Four studio courses, Credits: 12
  • Four general education courses or electives

Third Year

  • One course from art history, Credits: 3
  • Two studio courses, Credits: 6
  • Seven general education courses or electives

Fourth Year

Program Description

Click here for the program description.



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