COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art with a Painting Concentration at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours, including 86 credit hours of art and art history coursework, and is designed to prepare students for professional careers as artists while developing a broad range of creative and technical skills. Students must earn a grade of C or higher in all major courses and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA within the major. The curriculum begins with a strong foundation in visual arts through courses in two-dimensional design, three-dimensional design, drawing, and introductory studies in art and design, helping students develop essential artistic techniques and creative problem-solving abilities. Students also complete a mid-program review to assess progress and readiness for advanced studio work. Art history forms an important part of the degree, with coursework covering historical and contemporary art movements, critical analysis, and advanced studies in art history. Introductory studio courses expose students to a variety of artistic disciplines, including photography, life drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, and digital media, providing broad technical experience before focusing on painting. Advanced studio art courses emphasize professional development, interdisciplinary practice, presentation skills, and exploration of multiple artistic approaches. Within the painting concentration, students build specialized expertise through upper-level painting courses that examine painting materials and processes, narrative and sequential imagery, and contemporary expanded approaches to painting. Advanced painting courses allow students to refine their artistic vision, technical mastery, and personal style through intensive studio practice and faculty mentorship. The program culminates in a senior project and professional exhibition, giving students the opportunity to create and publicly present a substantial body of original work that demonstrates their artistic growth and readiness for professional practice. Wichita State’s emphasis on applied learning provides access to large studio facilities, galleries, modern technology, exhibitions, and community engagement opportunities that help students gain real-world experience before graduation. Graduates are prepared for careers as professional painters, fine artists, illustrators, gallery and museum professionals, arts administrators, community arts practitioners, and creative entrepreneurs. The degree also provides excellent preparation for Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs and other advanced studies in visual arts. Through intensive studio training, critical inquiry, professional development, and exhibition experience, the program equips students with the artistic, technical, and professional skills needed to succeed in contemporary art and creative industries.