Quick Facts
- Delivery: On Campus
- Credits: 84
- Our programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Learn more.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art is a four-year professional degree offered by Ball State’s School of Art. This program is rooted in studio practice, critical thinking, and creative exploration—preparing students for fulfilling careers in the visual arts and beyond.
Areas of Emphasis
Studio Art spans a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Ceramics
- Drawing
- Glass
- Metals + Jewelry
- Painting
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
- Video and New Media
Students may choose to focus on one of these nine studio areas or build an interdisciplinary path tailored to their interests.
Curriculum Structure
- First-Year Foundations courses introduce core concepts through hands-on learning in drawing, 2D, 3D, and 4D design.
- Intermediate courses focus on technical skill development across a range of media.
- Advanced courses deepen theoretical, professional, and conceptual competencies in studio art.
- Senior year culminates in a thesis exhibition, giving students experience in curating, installing, and presenting work in a professional setting.
Educational Experience
Students benefit from small class sizes, expert faculty mentorship, and access to well-equipped studio facilities. Emphasis is placed on personal expression, creative problem-solving, and understanding art in historical and contemporary contexts. Students also gain experience writing and speaking about their work—a key skill for careers in the arts.
Career Paths
Graduates are well-prepared for roles as:
- Professional artists and designers
- Educators and community arts leaders
- Curators, critics, and arts writers
- Conservators, scholars, and arts entrepreneurs
Many alumni pursue fulfilling careers in galleries, museums, nonprofits, and creative industries, or continue their studies at the graduate level.
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