Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art)
Hours: 120 On-Campus Online
About
The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art) at Fort Hays State University provides a comprehensive and well-rounded education in the visual arts combined with liberal arts studies. In contrast to the more specialized training of a Bachelor of Fine Arts, the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) allows students to cultivate a broad understanding of the visual arts while exploring diverse academic disciplines, such as art history and foreign languages.
With a personalized mentorship approach and smaller class sizes, students have numerous opportunities to refine their artistic skills. Collaboration is critical to the program, fostering teamwork and creativity among students and faculty.
Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art) at Fort Hays State University?
Pursuing a B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) at Fort Hays State University offers a unique combination of creativity, flexibility, and academic rigor. Smaller class sizes allow students to benefit from personalized mentorship from professors who are active professionals in the art world.
Our B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) stands out for its access to exceptional opportunities, including internships, study abroad programs, and student-run organizations. FHSU's strong ties with local and statewide art institutions provide students with valuable opportunities to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Who is this program for?
The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) at Fort Hays State University is available for individuals passionate about developing their artistic skills and exploring a variety of media:
- Students seeking a broad liberal arts education with a focus on visual arts
- Aspiring artists wanting to refine their technical abilities
- Individuals interested in pursuing careers in art education or gallery management
- Students aiming to build a strong portfolio for graduate school
- Transfer students looking to complete their degree in an affordable and flexible environment
Learning Outcomes
The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) at Fort Hays State University produces graduates who are skilled in their craft and capable of critical thinking, professional communication, and creative problem-solving. Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate the following.
Proficiency in Media Mastery
Students will develop technical mastery in various media, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital arts. They will learn how to use media to express complex ideas and concepts, applying technical skills to create works that communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
Critical Analysis and Contextual Understanding
Graduates will be equipped to analyze and critique both their work and the work of others within historical and contemporary contexts. This skill will allow them to place their art within a broader cultural narrative, providing insights into how art evolves and interacts with society.
Professional Portfolio Development
Throughout the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) program, students will build a professional-grade portfolio that reflects their artistic vision and technical capabilities. Their portfolio will be vital for entering the workforce, applying for graduate school, or seeking gallery representation.
Exhibition and Presentation Skills
Students will gain experience preparing their artwork for public exhibitions and learning how to curate, display, and promote their work professionally. These skills are essential for artists who wish to present their work in galleries, museums, or other public venues.
Real-World Applications
The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) program at Fort Hays State University prepares students for immediate entry into the professional art world. By offering hands-on experiences, such as internships, gallery exhibitions, and community art projects, students gain valuable practical knowledge and skills that translate directly into career opportunities.
In addition to technical skills, our B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) program encourages students to develop a professional portfolio, a critical tool for showcasing their work to potential employers, galleries, or graduate programs. Students engage with industry professionals through artist talks, workshops, and internships, giving them insights into the realities of working in the art world.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) program at Fort Hays State University ensures students learn traditional artistic practices and the latest industry trends and technological advancements. The curriculum regularly updates with new media and digital tools, such as 3D printing, digital painting, and experimental photography.
Fort Hays State University’s faculty members engage actively in the contemporary art scene, bringing their professional experiences and insights into the classroom. Guest lectures, workshops, and networking events expose students to emerging trends in the industry.
Hands-on Activities
The hands-on learning opportunities at Fort Hays State University’s B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art) program are impressive. Students can work directly in studios equipped with state-of-the-art tools and materials, allowing them to experiment and refine their craft in a professional environment.
In addition to studio work, students regularly exhibit their art in campus galleries, giving them firsthand experience in curating and preparing for professional exhibitions. These experiences, combined with internships and artist workshops, provide a robust framework for students to develop their professional and artistic skills.
What You’ll Learn:
- Mastery in various media, such as painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture and printmaking
- Deep understanding of art history and theory
- Building and refining an artist’s portfolio
- Skills in both traditional and digital art forms
- Conceptual development and critique techniques
How You’ll Learn:
- One-on-one mentorship with professors
- Engaging in internships and study-abroad opportunities
- Access to cutting-edge studio spaces and technology
- Professional development workshops
- Exhibiting works in student galleries
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) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online 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.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs complementing the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art). These include:
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.