Minor in Art

Minor

Hours: 24 On-Campus

About

The Minor in Art at Fort Hays State University provides students from diverse academic backgrounds the opportunity to enrich their primary degrees with creativity and artistic skills. The program delivers a comprehensive and flexible education in the arts, allowing students to explore a wide range of disciplines within the field. Through a well-rounded curriculum that includes drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, and graphic design, students gain practical experience and develop strong visual communication skills.

This minor features an expanded curriculum with a higher credit requirement, broadening its scope by including a diverse range of courses—such as design classes—not commonly found in comparable programs.

Why pursue a Minor in Art at Fort Hays State University?

The program distinguishes itself through a comprehensive and flexible curriculum that includes both studio and design courses. This approach fosters exploration across multiple disciplines, enabling students to develop a broad and enriching educational experience.

Additionally, the Minor in Art is designed to accommodate the schedules and interests of students from diverse majors, making it both accessible and practical. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current trends and industry standards, ensuring that students acquire relevant and contemporary skills. This minor not only enhances students’ artistic abilities but also increases their versatility for a wide range of career opportunities.

Who is this program for?

Fort Hays State University designed the Minor in Art for students seeking to enhance their major with artistic skills and creativity. The program is especially well-suited for:

Students seeking to improve their creativity
Those wishing to complement their major with artistic skills
Individuals interested in careers that value visual communication
Students desiring hands-on, experiential learning
Those aspiring to work in creative industries
Students who enjoy collaborative and community-based projects

Learning Outcomes

The Minor in Art program at FHSU is designed to cultivate a comprehensive skill set that supports both personal growth and professional advancement. Students gain a thorough understanding of artistic principles and practices, equipping them for success in creative and professional pursuits.

Develop and Articulate a Coherent Project Plan

Students learn to create detailed, practical project plans that provide clarity and direction in their artistic work. This skill is essential for both individual and collaborative projects, promoting effective organization, communication, and execution.

Demonstrate Technical Proficiency

Through intensive studio courses, students develop technical expertise across a range of artistic media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital design. This mastery allows them to create high-quality, professional-level work that reflects both skill and creative intent.

Express Personal Imagery

Students learn to create artworks that reflect cohesive ideas or concepts, demonstrating their ability to convey complex themes through visual media. The program emphasizes conceptual thinking and the importance of clear, expressive communication in artistic practice.

Real-World Applications

Graduates of the Minor in Art program are well-equipped for careers in art education, museums, galleries, and art therapy—fields where creativity and visual communication are essential. The program also lays a strong foundation for roles in marketing, advertising, social media, and community arts coordination, where the ability to convey messages visually is highly valued.

In addition, students develop entrepreneurial skills that support freelance opportunities in art and design or the launch of their own creative ventures. The combination of technical proficiency and creative problem-solving prepares graduates to meet the demands of a wide range of industries. Beyond career readiness, the minor also supports personal growth and provides transferable skills applicable in numerous professional settings.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The curriculum is continuously updated to incorporate contemporary practices and industry-standard digital tools. Students benefit from lectures and workshops led by practicing artists, gaining firsthand insight into current trends, techniques, and professional workflows.

The minor emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on projects, exhibitions, and research focused on emerging media and sustainable practices. This dynamic approach ensures students remain informed and adaptable in an ever-evolving creative field. Participation in exhibitions and competitions further enriches their learning experience, building both confidence and professional readiness.

Hands-on Activities

Experiential and applied learning are central to the Minor in Art. Students participate in a variety of hands-on activities, including collaborative art projects, service-learning initiatives, and interactive workshops. These experiences provide practical opportunities to apply classroom knowledge, deepening their understanding of artistic concepts and techniques.

The program also offers opportunities for research projects and study abroad experiences, allowing students to explore diverse cultural and artistic practices. Participation in exhibitions enables students to showcase their work, gain constructive feedback from peers and professionals, and strengthen both their artistic development and confidence.

What You’ll Learn:

Fundamental drawing techniques
Art history knowledge
Painting and sculpting skills
Design principles
Photography basics
Critical thinking in art

How You’ll Learn:

Interactive studio classes
Hands-on projects
Field trips and study tours
Collaborative assignments
Professional artist workshops
Digital tools and techniques

Courses

The Minor in Art consists of 24 credit hours, divided between core requirements and elective studio/design courses. Core courses include Drawing I, Drawing II, Survey of Art History I, and Survey of Art History II. These foundational courses provide essential knowledge in both theoretical and practical aspects of art.

Elective courses allow students to explore a range of studio and design disciplines, including painting, photography, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, and graphic design. This diverse curriculum ensures a well-rounded artistic education and enables students to customize their learning experience based on personal interests and career aspirations.

ART 101: Drawing I

Observational drawing skills are explored through black and white drawing media.

ART 103: 2-D Design

Introduction to 2-D design and composition. Required of all art and design majors.

ART 201: Survey of Art History I

A general survey of Art History from the prehistoric to medieval periods.

Discover the full Minor in Art course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates with a Minor in Art are well-prepared for a wide range of careers that value creativity and artistic skill. The program offers a strong foundation that supports various professional roles, making graduates adaptable, versatile, and competitive in today’s job market.

Art Educator

Art educators design curricula, lead classes, and nurture students' artistic growth in schools or community programs. They play a vital role in inspiring and shaping the next generation of artists.

Museum/Gallery Professional

Professionals in museums or galleries curate exhibits, manage collections, and educate the public, ensuring artworks are effectively displayed and appreciated.

Art Therapist

Art therapists use creative expression to support mental health, helping clients process emotions, reduce stress, and foster personal growth.

Marketing/Advertising Professional

These professionals apply visual communication skills to create engaging campaigns, design advertisements, and develop brand identities that effectively reach target audiences.

Freelance Artist/Designer

Freelance artists and designers work independently, creating customized artwork and designs for clients. This career offers creative freedom, flexibility, and diverse professional opportunities.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Students interested in the Minor in Art may also explore related programs offered at Fort Hays State University, including:

FAQ

What are the benefits of a Minor in Art for non-art majors?

Enhances creativity, visual communication skills, and critical thinking abilities, making students more versatile and competitive in their primary field of study.

How does the Minor in Art integrate contemporary art practices?

Our curriculum includes courses on the latest trends, digital tools, sustainable practices, and contemporary artists' lectures and workshops.

Are there opportunities for students to exhibit their work?

Minor in Art students can showcase their work in exhibitions, receive feedback from peers and professionals, and gain real-world experience.

What support and resources are available to Minor in Art students?

Minor in Art students can access well-equipped studios, workshops, digital tools, and a network of contemporary artists and faculty for guidance and inspiration.

Can the skills gained from a Minor in Art be applied to other careers?

The creativity, visual communication, and critical thinking skills developed in the Minor in Art are valuable in careers such as marketing, advertising, education, and more.

Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts

At FHSU’s School of Visual and Performing Arts, creativity thrives in a supportive and passionate community. Our programs in Art, Design, Music, and Theatre offer students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether you aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, our expert faculty provides hands-on learning experiences that inspire and challenge you.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your chosen field. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, our programs equip you with the tools to make your mark in the world of visual and performing arts.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a collaboration between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, students of FHSU, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas. Schmierbach and students are providing workshops to the DSNWK individuals to provide structured art experiences centered around weaving, drawing, and photography. The goal of this project is to expand the arts in the Hays community to help reach more individuals, specifically creating more opportunities in the arts.
Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all, regardless of expertise, the club provides opportunities for members to explore art movements, artists, and forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of the arts, the club also connects members with key figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills like curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, we cultivate a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, trainings, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
Music Theatre: Participate in a fully-realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.

Art

Minor

On-Campus

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