Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

Fort Hays State University’s Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) programs provide students with a solid foundation in visual literacy and technical skills through hands-on, traditional instruction. These programs emphasize a comprehensive education in drawing, painting, and conceptual practices, enabling undergraduate students to explore diverse techniques and media.

Throughout the final year, faculty mentorship guides students in developing personalized portfolios, experimenting with innovative materials, and enhancing critical thinking skills. Advanced courses feature rotating themes that encourage students to refine their artistic voices while deepening their understanding of contemporary drawing and painting.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) at Fort Hays State University?

Students in the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) programs benefit from an educational experience that prioritizes individuality, critical thinking, and technical mastery. The faculty has designed a curriculum that balances the development of traditional skills with the encouragement of innovation across a wide range of media and visual forms.

These programs distinguish themselves by providing a strong foundation in core skills while integrating interdisciplinary exploration and community engagement. Students also have opportunities to gain real-world experience through community art projects and exhibitions, which are incorporated directly into the curriculum.

Who is this program for?

Students passionate about advancing their technical skills, critical thinking, and professional artistic practices will find these programs well-suited to their goals. Whether they enter with limited formal training or substantial artistic experience, all students receive support to help them achieve their creative potential. These programs are designed for:

Students passionate about painting and drawing
Students seeking to build a professional portfolio
Students wanting to integrate community engagement into their artistic practice
Students interested in pursuing undergraduate studies in fine arts
Students aiming for careers in fine arts, education, or arts administration

Learning Outcomes

The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) programs provide a strong and dynamic foundation for students preparing for careers in fine arts, visual arts, and related industries. These programs emphasize the development of technical proficiency, conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and professional practice.

Mastery of Artistic Techniques

Students are expected to achieve mastery in both traditional and contemporary drawing and painting media, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of material properties and technical processes. Through the study of color theory, composition, spatial relationships, and material exploration, students develop a comprehensive skill set that is clearly reflected in their final portfolio work.

Development of Critical and Conceptual Thinking

Through rigorous critiques, research projects, and written analyses, students develop the ability to conceptualize, evaluate, and contextualize creative work. They learn to assess both formal and thematic elements, articulate their personal artistic visions, and connect their work to wider artistic, historical, and cultural contexts.

Professional Portfolio and Exhibition Readiness

Students develop a cohesive body of work that culminates in a professional-quality portfolio, supported by participation in exhibitions that build skills in presentation, documentation, and curation. For the Bachelor of Fine Arts students, a senior exhibition serves as a capstone experience, providing an opportunity to showcase a fully realized personal artistic identity.

Community and Global Engagement Through Art

The program offers opportunities for community engagement through artistic practices, preparing students to apply their skills for meaningful local and global impact. Students engage in socially conscious art-making that addresses contemporary issues and diverse audiences, collaborating with community organizations, participating in interdisciplinary projects, and supporting sustainability initiatives.

Real-World Applications

Participation in juried exhibitions, community partnerships, and collaborative research projects ensures that students’ skills in painting, drawing, and media application hold value beyond the classroom and contribute to building professional portfolios. Through field trips to major cultural centers and internship opportunities, students engage directly with the broader art world. Additionally, they take part in professional organizations, gallery exhibitions, and interdisciplinary projects in collaboration with other academic departments.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Faculty research in digital illustration, community engagement, and sustainable art practices is continuously integrated into classroom instruction, ensuring that contemporary topics are consistently addressed. Through specialized courses, students explore experimental media, alternative art processes, and community activism in art. Engaging with natural materials for inks, practicing digital illustration, and participating in social impact projects create a progressive learning environment that prepares students to navigate the challenges of a rapidly evolving artistic landscape.

Hands-on Activities

Applied projects—including community-engaged art workshops, internships, juried exhibitions, and research collaborations—are integral components of the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) programs. Students are required to participate in local and regional exhibitions, while Bachelor of Fine Arts students must present a solo exhibition, providing essential professional experience.

Annual field trips to art hubs such as Kansas City, Chicago, New York, and international venues expose students to vibrant professional art scenes and diverse career opportunities. Additionally, through initiatives supported by the Undergraduate Research Experience, students work with underrepresented communities, ensuring that their experiential learning addresses real-world challenges and community needs.

What You’ll Learn:

Develop traditional drawing and painting skills
Explore innovative use of media and techniques
Build a personalized, professional portfolio
Understand art history and contemporary practices
Foster critical and conceptual development

How You’ll Learn:

Participate in hands-on studio courses
Engage with community art initiatives
Conduct historical and contemporary art research
Create large-scale and experimental artworks
Showcase work in exhibitions and galleries

Courses

Students are required to complete a comprehensive foundation curriculum designed to develop essential technical skills and a thorough understanding of both historical and contemporary visual arts contexts. Core courses prepare students for advanced work in painting and drawing, while upper-division classes provide opportunities to engage with contemporary issues through hands-on artmaking. The program emphasizes portfolio development, critical theory, interdisciplinary exploration, and professional practice, culminating in an independent exhibition for Bachelor of Fine Arts students during their final semester.

ART 220: Introduction to Painting

Exploration of traditional painting media.

ART 310: Figure Drawing

Observational drawing is explored using human figures.

ART 420: Painting I: Color and Light

Developing additional competence in painting.

Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Art (Studio Art) and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates pursue diverse career paths in fine arts, education, nonprofit organizations, and the creative industries. Professional opportunities extend beyond traditional gallery settings to include roles centered on community engagement, education, and interdisciplinary practice.

Art Teachers

Graduates often pursue careers teaching in K-12 public and private schools, applying their strong technical skills and conceptual knowledge to nurture young artists. Many complete certification through additional coursework or graduate study, preparing them for rewarding careers in art education.

Professional Artist

Many graduates establish full-time careers as independent artists, managing studio practices, exhibiting work, fulfilling commissions, and building sustainable creative businesses. Elective courses in arts entrepreneurship and marketing equip them with essential skills to manage their professional careers.

Gallery Manager or Curator

Alumni often work in galleries and museums, curating exhibitions, managing collections, organizing public programs, and collaborating with artists and audiences. Their strong foundation in art history and professional presentation prepares them to thrive in the institutional art world.

Art Conservator/Restorer

Specialists with hands-on technical skills and historical knowledge often pursue advanced graduate training in art conservation. They find opportunities in museums, libraries, archives, and private collections, focusing on the restoration and preservation of valuable artworks.

Community Arts Coordinator

Graduates focused on social practice and public engagement often work with nonprofits, governments, or independent initiatives, using visual arts to promote social change. They apply skills in event planning, grant writing, and partnership building to develop sustainable art 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

Students seeking to personalize or broaden their visual arts education have access to a range of complementary and interdisciplinary programs at Fort Hays State University. Related fields include:

FAQ

What types of media and materials will students explore during the B.A. and BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting)?

Students will explore various traditional and experimental materials, including oil painting, mixed media, fabric arts, natural dyes, digital illustration, and sculpture techniques.

What is the difference between the B.A. and BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting)?

The Bachelor of Arts degree offers a broader liberal arts education in drawing and painting. At the same time, the Bachelor of Fine Arts provides an intensive studio art experience emphasizing portfolio development and technical mastery.

Are scholarships available specifically for B.A. or BFA in Art (Studio Art: Drawing-Painting) students?

Multiple scholarships are available through the School of Visual and Performing Arts, including merit-based and project-specific awards that can offset tuition costs significantly.

How can students display their work professionally while enrolled?

Students will have multiple opportunities to display work in juried exhibitions, community projects, on-campus galleries, and the BFA senior exhibition.

Can drawing and painting students pursue certificates alongside their majors?

We encourage students to pursue certificates, such as Art History, Printmaking, or Arts Entrepreneurship, to further specialize and personalize their degree program.

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.

Drawing and Painting

Bachelor's
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