Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) program at Fort Hays State University equips students to apply their artistic skills in real-world contexts, advocating for social justice and cultural understanding. This program emphasizes the significance of art education and community involvement, enabling students to develop meaningful, socially conscious projects.

Through collaborations with local organizations, students gain hands-on experience that fosters sustainability and community empowerment. They engage directly with communities, teaching practical artistic skills and promoting lifelong learning.

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

Students pursuing the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) benefit from a unique blend of creative freedom and civic responsibility. The program combines leadership development, community partnerships, and interdisciplinary coursework to cultivate both skilled artists and effective changemakers.

By prioritizing collaboration with service agencies, the program distinguishes itself with a unique and impactful approach unmatched by others. FHSU’s curriculum prioritizes artistic projects that create a meaningful impact on real people and communities.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for students who wish to blend creativity with community service. It attracts individuals passionate about using art to inform, inspire, and engage audiences in public spaces.

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 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) embody a comprehensive approach that combines artistic mastery with community engagement. The program ensures that graduates possess advanced creative skills alongside the ethical, intellectual, and strategic tools needed to make meaningful contributions to society through art.

Develop and Articulate a Coherent and Appropriate Project Plan

Students create structured, well-conceived community art initiatives that demonstrate clear purpose, artistic vision, and practical feasibility. These plans address specific social issues or objectives and reflect thorough collaboration, research, and an understanding of community needs.

Construct Creative Work that Demonstrates Technical Mastery of Media

Students demonstrate advanced proficiency in both traditional and contemporary art forms, emphasizing craftsmanship, originality, and adaptability. This includes mediums such as painting, ceramics, digital media, and found-object assemblage. All work produced meets professional standards suitable for exhibition.

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

Through classroom discussions, community engagement, and critical readings, students analyze the role of art in confronting social injustices. They identify key issues, reference relevant art movements, and express their perspectives through both written reflections and creative projects.

Implement a Community-Engaged Project that Addresses Social Change

As a capstone requirement, students apply their knowledge by executing a comprehensive project that delivers tangible benefits to the community. This process involves outreach, project implementation, documentation, and public exhibition, showcasing a complete understanding of community arts programming.

Real-World Applications

Students work directly with underrepresented and underserved communities through strategic partnerships with local nonprofits, social service agencies, and cultural institutions. These collaborations enable students to plan, design, and implement art projects that educate, heal, and raise awareness of pressing social issues.

Graduates leave this program with a comprehensive understanding of managing art-based community initiatives, including grant writing, event planning, and project execution. The program ensures that students develop artistic skills alongside project management, leadership, and communication abilities necessary to effectively bring art into the spaces where it can have the greatest community impact.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Contemporary trends in art prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural responsiveness—core principles deeply integrated into the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art) program. Students engage in emerging forms of socially engaged art, such as public installations, performance activism, and interactive multimedia projects.

The curriculum incorporates forward-looking tools, including digital storytelling, advocacy graphics, and collaborative design strategies. Through instruction in grant writing, grassroots entrepreneurship, and nonprofit arts leadership, students are equipped with the skills and resources necessary to innovate and lead in the field.

Hands-on Activities

Experiential learning is a cornerstone of the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Community Engaged Art) program. Each course includes a hands-on component that strengthens the connection between theory and practice. Students engage in projects such as creating murals in collaboration with neighborhood associations and leading art workshops for children and seniors, applying their skills in settings where their work produces visible and lasting impact.

In addition to coursework, students undertake independent research culminating in solo or group exhibitions. The program also supports presentations at national conferences, providing professional exposure and networking opportunities. These exhibitions serve as both academic and public platforms, demonstrating how artists use creative practice to inspire civic dialogue and foster community improvement.

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 establishes a solid foundation in visual storytelling and studio practice while integrating courses that enhance students’ understanding of community dynamics. Traditional studio disciplines such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics are combined with studies in sociology, leadership, entrepreneurship, and art history.

In their final year, students undertake capstone projects, planning, executing, and evaluating community-engaged art initiatives. These projects demonstrate their preparedness for professional careers as artists or for graduate studies in fields such as art therapy, social work, or nonprofit management. Each course and assignment is intentionally designed with long-term application and professional relevance 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 developed in this program prepare graduates for creative careers with a strong social impact. Whether entering the workforce immediately or pursuing advanced education, students apply art as a meaningful and practical tool across a variety of settings. Opportunities continue to grow in public arts, nonprofit organizations, and educational programs.

Community Art Teacher

Community art teachers use their creative skills to lead workshops that meet public needs. Working in shelters, cultural centers, and hospitals, they guide participants in painting, sculpture, and mixed media while exploring themes like wellness and identity.

Community Art Center Director

Community art center directors oversee all aspects of an arts organization, including programming, staff management, and fundraising. They develop exhibits, classes, and events that engage and reflect community interests.

Community Art Education Coordinator

Community art education coordinators design curricula and programs that bring the arts into schools, after-school centers, and public institutions. Coordinators collaborate with educators and artists to create dynamic, interdisciplinary learning experiences.

Independent Artist at Festivals

Independent artists showcase and sell work at festivals, fairs, and pop-up exhibitions. Many create installations using found objects or socially relevant themes. They often lead workshops, collaborate with communities, and use their art to raise awareness for important causes.

Community Leadership Positions

Graduates with leadership training can work in nonprofits, advocacy groups, and government agencies that support the arts. They shape cultural policy, secure funding, and organize events to integrate art into civic life and expand public access to creative programs.

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 programs that complement the BFA in Art (Community Engaged Art), allowing students to expand or customize their studies. Whether through double majors, certificates, or interdisciplinary options, these programs support a tailored 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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