Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

Our Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) prepares students to apply artistic skills in real-world settings to advocate for social justice and cultural understanding. Our program emphasizes the importance of art education and community involvement, enabling students to create meaningful, socially conscious projects.

Through partnerships with local organizations, students in the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) gain hands-on experience that promotes sustainability and community empowerment. Students explore art education through direct work with communities, teaching practical artistic skills, and fostering lifelong learning.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) at Fort Hays State University?

Students who pursue the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) at Fort Hays State University have access to a rare combination of creative freedom and civic responsibility. This program integrates leadership development, community partnerships, and interdisciplinary coursework, helping students become skilled artists and changemakers.

Focusing on collaboration with service agencies gives this program an edge over competitors. Fort Hays State University’s curriculum prioritizes artistic efforts that impact real people and places.

Who is this program for?

The BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) is available for students who want to combine creativity with service. It appeals to those passionate about the power of art to inform, inspire, and engage others in public settings:

Artists who want to focus on social change
Students not interested in K-12 teaching but passionate about education
Future graduate students in art therapy, social work, or nonprofit leadership
Individuals interested in collaborative and public art forms
Creatives looking for professional preparation outside of traditional galleries

Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes for the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) reflect a well-rounded approach that integrates artistic mastery with community engagement. Our program ensures that students graduate with advanced skills in creative production and the ethical, intellectual, and strategic tools necessary to make a meaningful contribution to society through art.

Develop and Articulate a Coherent and Appropriate Project Plan

Students develop structured, well-thought-out community art initiatives demonstrating clarity of purpose, artistic vision, and logistical feasibility. These plans address specific social issues or goals and show evidence of collaboration, research, and community needs.

Construct Creative Work that Demonstrates Technical Mastery of Media

Each student will demonstrate high proficiency in traditional and modern art forms, with special attention to craftsmanship, originality, and adaptability. This may include painting, ceramics, digital media, and found-object assemblage. Work must meet professional standards suitable for exhibition.

Form and Articulate Theoretical and Practical Understandings of Human Rights and Social Justice Issues

Through classroom discussion, community interaction, and critical readings, students will analyze the role of art in addressing injustices. They can identify core issues, reference relevant art movements, and express their position through written reflection and creative work.

Implement a Community-Engaged Project that Addresses Social Change

The capstone requirement ensures that students apply their learning to a full-scale project with tangible community benefits. It includes outreach, project execution, documentation, and public exhibition, demonstrating a full cycle understanding of community arts programming.

Real-World Applications

Students in the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) program engage directly with underrepresented and underserved communities through strategic partnerships with local nonprofits, social service agencies, and cultural institutions. These collaborations allow students to plan, design, and implement art projects that educate, heal, or raise awareness on pressing social topics.

Graduates will leave with a clear understanding of managing art-based community initiatives, from grant applications to event planning and execution. Our program ensures students learn artistic skills alongside the project management, leadership, and communication skills needed to bring art into the spaces where communities benefit most.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Contemporary trends in art emphasize inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural responsiveness — key principles woven throughout the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art). Students explore emerging forms of socially engaged art, including public installations, performance-based activism, and interactive multimedia projects.

The curriculum introduces future-focused tools like digital storytelling, advocacy graphics, and collaborative design strategies. With instruction that spans grant writing, grassroots entrepreneurship, and nonprofit arts leadership, students have the resources to innovate.

Hands-on Activities

Experiential learning is central to the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) program. Every course includes a hands-on component reinforcing the connection between theory and practice. From creating murals in collaboration with neighborhood associations to leading art workshops for children and seniors, students apply their skills in contexts where their work has visible and lasting outcomes.

Beyond coursework, students conduct independent research that results in solo or group exhibitions. Presentation at national conferences is also supported, offering professional exposure and networking opportunities. Exhibitions serve as academic and public demonstrations of the work, showing how artists use creative practice to spark civic dialogue and improve communities.

What You’ll Learn:

Understand art in a social justice context
Create and lead community art projects
Develop advanced studio skills
Study grant writing and entrepreneurship
Learn advocacy through art

How You’ll Learn:

Collaborate with local service partners
Implement a culminating capstone project
Attend leadership and sociology classes
Showcase work in group exhibitions
Conduct research in community settings

Courses

The core curriculum for the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) builds a strong base in visual storytelling and studio practice while weaving in courses that deepen students' understanding of community dynamics. Traditional studio disciplines like drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics coexist with sociology, leadership, entrepreneurship, and art history courses.

In the final year, students develop capstone projects, where they plan, execute, and evaluate a community-engaged art initiative. This project demonstrates their readiness to work as professional artists or enter graduate programs in art therapy, social work, or nonprofit management. We designed every topic and assignment with long-term application in mind.

ART 308: Community Engaged Art

This is a hands-on course that addresses community needs through socially engaged art practices.

ART 476: Art Apprenticeship

In this course, Students will participate in planning, teaching, and administering art programs.

SOC 664: Social Entrepreneurship and Grassroots Social Action

This course helps students 1) identify categories of people in need about whom they most care, 2 )understand the challenges and successes of existing grassroots social action organizations, 3) learn the principles for designing a grassroots community project to help others in need, and 4) build a grassroots social action project on paper (that can later be initiated if desired by the student).

Discover the full Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The skills acquired in this program prepare graduates for creative and socially impactful careers. Whether entering the workforce directly or pursuing further education, students use art as a meaningful and practical tool in diverse settings. Opportunities are expanding across public arts, nonprofit sectors, and educational programs.

Community Art Teacher

Community art teachers use their creative talents to facilitate workshops and lessons that serve public needs. Working in shelters, cultural centers, and hospitals, they introduce participants to painting, sculpture, or mixed media while addressing topics like wellness and identity.

Community Art Center Director

Community art center directors manage all aspects of an arts organization, including programming, staff coordination, and fundraising. They are responsible for developing art exhibits, educational classes, and public events that reflect community interests.

Community Art Education Coordinator

This role involves designing curriculum and community programming that brings the arts into schools, after-school centers, or public institutions. Coordinators often work with educators and artists to create dynamic, interdisciplinary learning experiences.

Independent Artist at Festivals

Independent artists in this field showcase and sell work at arts festivals, fairs, and pop-up exhibitions. Many use found objects or socially relevant themes to create installations and interactive displays. These artists often conduct live workshops, collaborate with community members, and use their platforms to raise awareness for causes they care about.

Community Leadership Positions

Graduates with leadership training can take on roles within nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and government agencies that fund and promote the arts. These positions allow individuals to shape cultural policy, apply for grants, and organize events, integrating art into civic life and ensuring broad public access to creative programming.

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

Fort Hays State University offers several programs that complement the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art), giving students options to expand or tailor their academic journey. Whether students want to double major, add a certificate, or explore interdisciplinary paths, these related programs can help build a more customized educational experience:

FAQ

What makes this program different from other BFA degrees?

The curriculum focuses on socially engaged art and includes direct community involvement. Leadership, sociology, and grant writing courses are available with studio work.

Are there professional opportunities outside of traditional art careers?

Students become ready for nonprofit roles, community outreach, social work, and public education.

Can I go to graduate school after completing the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art)?

Graduates are well-prepared for programs in art therapy, arts administration, and other community-focused graduate degrees.

What types of community projects will I work on?

Projects may involve creating murals, leading public art workshops, or developing exhibitions with partner organizations.

Will I have opportunities to exhibit my work?

Yes, students participate in solo and group exhibitions as part of the program and may also present at national conferences.

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.

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