COURSE CURRICULUM

The art program at Concordia University Chicago offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in the visual arts while encouraging them to serve and engage with their communities through their creative work. The Art major builds a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of visual art, blending hands-on studio practice with theoretical study to cultivate technical proficiency, creative problem-solving, and an informed understanding of diverse artistic traditions.Core courses such as 2D and 3D Basic Studio, Introduction to Visual Arts, Drawing Studio, and both Non-Western and Western Art introduce students to a wide range of techniques, media, and cultural perspectives. These classes not only sharpen students’ artistic abilities but also nurture a disciplined work ethic and a reflective approach to the creative process. Emphasis is placed on understanding art across cultures and histories, helping students develop a global perspective on the visual arts.As students progress in the program, they can choose from an array of advanced studio courses to further refine their skills and express their unique artistic voices. These include Artist Books, Ceramics, Digital Photography, Fiber Arts, Figure Drawing, Graphic Design, Painting, Printmaking, and Professional Strategies for the Visual Artist. These upper-level courses allow for in-depth exploration of both traditional and contemporary practices, encouraging innovation and personal growth.In addition to serving art majors and minors, the Art Department contributes to the university’s liberal arts mission by promoting critical awareness and appreciation of the visual arts among the general student population. By combining rigorous professional training with a broad liberal arts education, the program ensures that students graduate as thoughtful, skilled, and socially conscious artists prepared for careers in the arts or further academic study in graduate programs.