Undergraduate : Graduate

Core Curriculum : Foundations : Academic : Design : Studio

The education of teachers, scholars, artists and designers requires both a comprehensive program in the specializations and a university core program outside of the major. In meeting these objectives the school emphasizes both theory and practice in its specializations. Studies are sequentially planned to facilitate orderly matriculation through the baccalaureate curricula. Prior to entry into a selected specialization, all majors are required to complete foundation studies: beginning coursework in art history, drawing, and two- and three-dimensional design. In addition, for entrance into the art BFA and the design BA specializations, students must have successfully completed a portfolio review of work from previous art studies (at SIUC or elsewhere). The review will be conducted upon completion of the foundation studio courses and one or two courses specific to the specialization.

Bachelor of Fine Art
With a BFA degree in ceramics, drawing, glass, metalsmithing, painting, printmaking or sculpture students are prepared to practice as studio artists, go on to advanced study, or enter careers related to their studio specializations. The BFA specializations in industrial design and communication design prepare students with the intellectual, technological and practical knowledge required in the professional world of design. With a specialization in communication design the student learns to communicate messages using a broad range of creative ideas, information, images and media, as well as how to mediate between a client and an audience. The goal of the specialization is to prepare students for professional graphic design practice and continued personal and creative growth in publication, promotion, corporate identity, packaging, advertising and/or environmental graphic design. With a specialization in industrial design students are prepared to practice in the industrial field of contemporary product development.

Bachelor of Art
The specialization of art education is offered within a liberal arts (BA) as well as a professional (BFA) curriculum format. Upon completion of either program students in art education are prepared and certified to teach in the public schools. However, the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program offers the student more studio electives in art and design. With the BFA degree in art education students are better prepared to teach studio arts in American schools or go on for advanced study either in art or art education. Art History is a study of visual culture in its historical contexts.

The BA specialization in art history provides rigorous liberal arts training in analytical and critical viewing, reading, thinking, speaking and writing. It prepares students for graduate study, for professional school, and for careers in museums, auction houses, publishing and other fields. Majors take courses in art history, studio art, and in the University’s core curriculum and enjoy a wide choice of electives.

The general studio specialization is the most flexible program. By means of both requirements and elective options, students may plan interdisciplinary programs in art or develop programs leading toward a specific career objective. The BA specialization in general design is an interdisciplinary approach to studying and applying design principles and methodologies. The curriculum exposes students to the broad applications of design and designing as a process of change. Emphasis is placed on creative and critical thinking skills suitable for application in a wide range of employment possibilities as well as preparation for many graduate programs. Developing skills that help individuals think independently and excel as effective team members is a goal of the general design specialization. A communication design or industrial design specialization prepares students to experience sensibilities within a liberal arts context. The specializations may prepare the student for further studies in design or to enter professional practice.