Skip to main content

2023-2024 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

Search Help

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Studio Art

The B.A. and B.S. programs emphasize the 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 Courses

In the GVSU general education requirements, the Foundations 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.

Foundations Courses

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

Additional Requirements

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

Art History Electives

Requires nine credits.

Choose three courses from the following. ART 221/ART 222 are recommended for the upper-level art history courses:

Studio Art 2-D Courses

Requires six credits.

Choose two courses in different 2-D areas from the following:

Studio Art 3-D Courses

Requires six credits.

Choose two courses in different 3-D areas from the following:

Studio Electives

Requires six credits.

Choose two courses from the following:

Capstone

Requires three credits, including:

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. and B.S. Degree Requirements

B.A. Degree Requirements

Students must complete third-semester proficiency in a foreign language.

B.S. Degree Requirements

Students must complete the following:

AND one of the following:

Suggested Order of Coursework for a Major in Studio Art

This suggested order of coursework applies generally to the fine arts curriculum for students working toward a B.S. or a B.A. degree. Students should verify specific major requirements with their assigned advisor.

Year One

Fall Semester:

Winter Semester:

Year Two

  • Two courses from art history (6 credits)
  • Four studio courses (12 credits)
  • Four general education courses or electives

Year Three

  • One course from art history (3 credits)
  • Two studio courses (6 credits)
  • Seven general education courses or electives

Year Four

Studio Art Program Description

Click here for the program description.



If you are in need of assistance please submit any questions or comments.