COURSE CURRICULUM

The Visual Arts major is a comprehensive four-year program that integrates studio practice with a strong liberal arts education. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational studio courses including Surface, Perceptual Drawing, Space, and Color and Light. These courses emphasize core visual principles such as composition, form, and color theory through both traditional and digital media. The curriculum also includes Visual Culture and Modern Visions 1400–1945, which provide historical and theoretical context, along with general education courses in writing, literature, and mathematics. In the second year, students deepen their knowledge through the History of Contemporary Art and select lower-level studio electives to explore specific areas of interest. General education requirements in communication, science, humanities, and history continue to provide a broad academic foundation. Students may also choose between entrepreneurial or innovation-based interdisciplinary courses. The third year introduces upper-level studio electives and theoretical courses like Theories of Looking, encouraging critical analysis of contemporary visual culture. Integrative Studio I and Art Forum further develop interdisciplinary and professional practices. The year also includes computer science, world language courses, and electives. In the final year, students engage in advanced studio work through Integrative Studios II and III, focusing on independent research and culminating in a thesis exhibition. They also take a professional practice course or participate in a cooperative education experience to prepare for life beyond college. The curriculum is rounded out by remaining general education requirements, world cultures, and free electives, allowing for customization based on student interests. Overall, the program balances technical skill development, critical theory, interdisciplinary learning, and professional readiness, preparing students for diverse careers in the arts and creative industries.