About

The Studio Art (BFA) degree at Appalachian State University develops the skills, concepts and creative sensitivities essential for students to become professional artists. The program offers in-depth study in foundations, design, drawing, and beginning studio courses. Students then select an area for intensive study, choosing from the following concentrations: clay, fibers, metalsmithing and jewelry design, painting and drawing, photography, printmaking and sculpture.

The senior year culminates in a multidisciplinary Senior Seminar/Studio experience that includes a group exhibition.

Students benefit from a comprehensive schedule of courses, selected topics courses, visiting artist lectures, workshops, independent studies, and internships that expose them to a broad range of artistic expression, while inviting them to develop their own studio activity. Cross-disciplinary and multi-media approaches to work are encouraged.

See examples of student work

After Graduation

Employment: Graduates move on to a variety of careers as small business owners, freelance artists, textile designers, art therapists and theater set designers, among other arts-related professions.

Graduate School: Students have continued their education at graduate schools across the U.S., including The University of Florida, Clemson, Georgia State University, New York University, UNC Greensboro, Maryland Institute College of Art, School of the Art Institute Chicago, San Francisco Art Institute, East Carolina University, and The Adler Institute.

Career Exploration website

People

• 

  Alumna Profile: Dani Iris '18

  At her professor’s encouragement, Iris applied for a Windgate Fellowship her senior year. She became one of just 10 graduating art students nationwide to receive the prestigious award from the Center for Craft in Asheville.

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  Alumna Profile: Patricia Cooke ’11

  “My identity as an artist definitely began and was nurtured at Appalachian State University. I have grown so much as an artist since then, but I am often reminded of the wonderful lessons that I learned from my professors and peers alike.”

  – sculptor Patricia Cooke

• 

  Faculty Profile: Scott Ludwig

  A proponent of experiential learning, Ludwig challenges his students to integrate their passion for art with the world around them.

  Meet more faculty

Minors

Studio Art with Portfolio Review, Studio Art without Portfolio Review, Art History

View all minors

Engagement Outside the Classroom

AIGA | ASU - The student-led affiliate of AIGA, the Professional Association for Design.

Appalachian Ceramics Association - Works to provide ceramic artists with a productive environment that fosters exploration, experience and expertise in ceramics.

Appalachian State Printmaking Club - Promotes printmaking and involvement in local, regional, national and international print events and opportunities.

Art History Club - An environment in which to discuss issues related to art history, and to prepare for careers in art history and related fields.

Arts Management Organization (AMO) - Seeks to promote professionalism and networking within the arts fields by increasing the awareness of the arts on Appalachian’s campus and in the community.

NAEA (National Association of Art Educators) Student Chapter - Promotes arts advocacy, professional development and leadership opportunities in visual arts education for the benefit of emerging educators in diverse communities.

Student Art League - An organization brid ging the gap among the Department of Art’s many disciplines.

The Peel Literature and Arts Review - The university’s student-run literary arts publication that is produced three times a year.

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Admission Requirements

A portfolio is required upon declaring this major, which includes 10 images that document previous successful artwork.