Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art

Think Differently. Think Creative Arts.

Embrace the Power of Creativity and Inspire Others to Think a Little Differently About the World Around Them.

You are an artist, and the work you do matters. Creativity requires vision, originality and ingenuity–the very same characteristics of a strong leader. So, why not use your creativity to make a difference in the world? Earn your Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art from Spalding University’s Creative Arts Department. Our BFA program bridges the gap between creative and professional development with a focus on social practice and public art. Not only will you develop creatively and technically as an artist, but also you’ll learn skills that have value beyond the art studio.

Areas of Study

Studio Art

In the studio art track, you will have the flexibility to explore and discover your discipline, whether it be ceramics, drawing, painting, sculpture or another area of art. You’ll develop the skills needed for graduate studies in studio art and the ability to add a minor for added marketability in your career.

Pre-art therapy

The pre-art therapy track provides a pathway for you to pursue a master’s degree in art therapy. You’ll learn a broad range of art forms and techniques while developing a better understanding of community needs, social organization and cultural and societal change.

Graphic Design/Illustration

Following the professional trend, this track merges graphic design and illustration. You’ll blend hands-on drawing with computer-generated design, strengthening your skills as a graphic designer. You’ll also be able to use your electives to add a minor for added marketability in your career.

Innovation

In the innovation track, you will develop professional creative problem-solving skills and learn to utilize design thinking to better collaborate in real-world situations. Creativity is not just about coming up with new ideas, it is also about knowing how to evaluate those ideas and transform them into workable solutions.

• Immerse yourself in learning with our unique block schedule.
• Minor in creative entrepreneurship or another speciality area.
• Study with a faculty of national and international artists and entrepreneurs.
• Explore your technical skills in our Makerspace which gives you access to a woodshop, metal shop, 3D printers, laser cutters, embroidery machine and image-making processes.

Enjoy program benefits that make your education even more affordable:

• One textbook for all art courses
• Discounted supplies through an Artist & Craftsman partnership
• Cameras and video equipment for checkout
• Free access to the Speed Art Museum and Spalding’s film festival

Experiential Learning

You’ll have a variety of opportunities for professional practice and to connect with others in our local art community.

• Studio Space: Gain access beginning your freshman year and host an open studio two times per year.
• Visiting Artist Series: Meet with national and international practising artists and creative entrepreneurs.
• Professional Practice: Take courses that include an internship, art review and a senior thesis and be prepared for a career as a professional artist and entrepreneur.
• Community Murals and Public Art: Use your creativity for social change through public art or social practice opportunities.
• Curating Possibilities: Enhance your curatorial skills in our student-run gallery space.

Use Your Art to Change the World

At Spalding, we are a diverse community of learners out to change the world. You too can be empowered to make a difference with your Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) in Studio Art from Spalding University. As a Creative Arts department, we’ll encourage you as you take your passion and talent to new levels and use your creativity to make an impact in your community. As a graduate of our program, you’ll be equipped to enrol in graduate school or begin a career in one of many settings, including:

• Non-profit organizations
• Public art organizations
• Schools
• Galleries
• Museums and historical societies
• Film and television studios
• Marketing and advertising agencies
• Creative entrepreneurship or freelance as a web designer, photographer, artist’s assistant and more.