The School of Art at the University of Houston is a premier institution for artistic education, innovation, and creative exploration, offering a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment for students to develop their skills in visual arts, design, and art history. As part of the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts, the School of Art is deeply committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural engagement, preparing students for successful careers in the arts and beyond. Located in the heart of Houston, Texas—a vibrant and diverse cultural hub—the School of Art benefits from its proximity to world-class museums, galleries, and creative industries, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and artistic inspiration.

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Academic Programs and Curriculum

The School of Art at the University of Houston offers a wide range of academic programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring artists, designers, and scholars. These programs are structured to provide a rigorous foundation in artistic techniques, conceptual development, and theoretical knowledge, while also encouraging experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration. The school offers the following degree programs:

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1. Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): The BFA program is a professional degree that allows students to specialize in areas such as painting, sculpture, photography, digital media, and graphic design. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on studio practice, critical thinking, and the development of a personal artistic voice. Students are encouraged to explore diverse media and techniques, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty.
2. Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History: This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the history of art, from ancient to contemporary periods. Students learn to analyze visual culture within its historical, social, and political contexts, developing skills in research, writing, and critical analysis. The program also offers opportunities for internships and study abroad experiences.
3. Master of Fine Arts (MFA): The MFA program is a highly selective, two-year graduate program designed for advanced artists seeking to refine their practice and engage in critical discourse. Students work closely with faculty mentors, participate in critiques and seminars, and have access to dedicated studio spaces. The program culminates in a thesis exhibition, showcasing the student’s original work.
4. Master of Arts (MA) in Art History: This graduate program focuses on advanced research in art history, offering specializations in areas such as modern and contemporary art, Latin American art, and museum studies. Students benefit from the school’s strong connections to Houston’s cultural institutions, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection.
5. Interdisciplinary Opportunities: The School of Art encourages students to collaborate across disciplines, taking advantage of the resources and expertise available within the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts and the broader University of Houston community. Students can pursue minors or certificates in areas such as museum studies, digital media, and arts leadership.

Faculty and Research

The School of Art boasts a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, designers, and scholars who are recognized nationally and internationally for their contributions to the field. Faculty members are actively engaged in research, exhibitions, and publications, bringing their expertise and real-world experience into the classroom. The school’s commitment to research is reflected in its support for faculty and student projects, including grants, residencies, and collaborative initiatives.

Facilities and Resources

The School of Art is housed in the Fine Arts Building, a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with access to cutting-edge tools and technologies. Key features of the building include:

• Studio Spaces: Dedicated studios for painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and digital media, equipped with professional-grade equipment and materials.
• Digital Media Labs: Advanced computer labs with software for graphic design, animation, video editing, and 3D modeling.
• Galleries and Exhibition Spaces: The school operates several galleries, including the Blaffer Art Museum, which hosts exhibitions of contemporary art by emerging and established artists. Students have opportunities to exhibit their work in these spaces, gaining valuable experience in curating and presenting their art.
• Workshops and Fabrication Labs: Facilities for woodworking, metalworking, and other fabrication processes, supported by skilled technicians.

Community Engagement and Professional Development

The School of Art is deeply committed to engaging with the local and global community through public art projects, partnerships with cultural organizations, and outreach programs. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, residencies, and study abroad programs, gaining practical experience and building professional networks. The school also hosts lectures, workshops, and symposia featuring visiting artists, curators, and scholars, providing students with exposure to diverse perspectives and practices.

Location and Cultural Context

The University of Houston’s location in Houston, Texas, offers students access to one of the most dynamic and diverse cultural landscapes in the United States. Houston is home to a thriving arts scene, with world-renowned institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, and the Menil Collection. The city’s vibrant arts community provides students with opportunities for internships, exhibitions, and collaborations, enriching their educational experience.

Alumni and Career Opportunities

Graduates of the School of Art at the University of Houston have gone on to achieve success in a wide range of careers, including studio art, graphic design, art education, museum curation, and arts administration. The school’s strong alumni network and career services support students in transitioning from academia to the professional world, offering resources such as portfolio reviews, job placement assistance, and networking events.

A Comprehensive and Interdisciplinary Approach

The School of Art at the University of Houston is a leading institution for artistic education and research, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of visual arts, design, and art history. With its distinguished faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to community engagement, the school provides students with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to succeed in the ever-evolving world of art and design. Whether you are an aspiring artist, designer, or scholar, the School of Art at the University of Houston offers a transformative educational experience that will prepare you for a lifetime of creative and professional achievement.

Academic Programs Offered at School of Art at the University of Houston

The School of Art at the University of Houston offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to cater to students with varying interests and career goals in the visual arts, design, and art history. These programs are structured to provide a strong foundation in artistic practice, critical thinking, and theoretical knowledge, while also encouraging interdisciplinary exploration and professional development. Below is a comprehensive list of all academic programs offered, clearly categorized and outlined with descriptions, details, and duration.

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

• Duration: 4 years (120 credit hours)
• Description: The BFA program is a professional degree designed for students seeking intensive training in studio art and design. It emphasizes hands-on studio practice, conceptual development, and the creation of a cohesive body of work. Students can specialize in one or more of the following areas:
  • Painting: Focuses on traditional and contemporary painting techniques, color theory, and composition.
  • Sculpture: Explores three-dimensional art-making processes, including woodworking, metalworking, and installation art.
  • Photography: Covers digital and analog photography, image editing, and conceptual approaches to the medium.
  • Printmaking: Includes techniques such as etching, lithography, screen printing, and relief printing.
  • Graphic Design: Combines visual communication, typography, and digital design tools to create impactful designs.
  • Digital Media: Focuses on animation, video art, interactive media, and 3D modeling.
• Highlights: Students have access to state-of-the-art studios and equipment, participate in critiques and exhibitions, and develop a professional portfolio.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History

• Duration: 4 years (120 credit hours)
• Description: The BA in Art History provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the history of art, from ancient to contemporary periods. The program emphasizes critical analysis, research, and writing, preparing students for careers in museums, galleries, education, and academia.
  • Areas of Study: Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, Modern, and Contemporary Art; Latin American Art; Asian Art; and Museum Studies.
  • Highlights: Students can participate in internships at local museums, study abroad programs, and research projects.

Graduate Programs

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

• Duration: 2 years (60 credit hours)
• Description: The MFA program is a highly selective, studio-based degree designed for advanced artists seeking to refine their practice and engage in critical discourse. Students work closely with faculty mentors, participate in critiques and seminars, and have access to dedicated studio spaces.
  • Specializations: Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Printmaking, Graphic Design, and Digital Media.
  • Thesis Requirement: Students complete a thesis project, which includes a written component and a culminating exhibition of their work.
  • Highlights: The program emphasizes professional development, with opportunities for teaching assistantships, exhibitions, and residencies.

Master of Arts (MA) in Art History

• Duration: 2 years (36 credit hours)
• Description: The MA in Art History is a research-intensive program that prepares students for careers in academia, museums, and cultural institutions. Students engage in advanced study of art historical periods, theories, and methodologies.
  • Specializations: Modern and Contemporary Art, Latin American Art, Museum Studies, and Critical Theory.
  • Thesis Requirement: Students complete a thesis based on original research, which may involve archival work, fieldwork, or internships.
  • Highlights: The program benefits from Houston’s rich cultural resources, including partnerships with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Menil Collection.

Interdisciplinary and Special Programs

Minor in Art

• Duration: Varies (typically 18 credit hours)
• Description: The minor in Art is open to students from other disciplines who wish to complement their major with a focus on studio art or art history. Courses include drawing, painting, photography, and art history surveys.

Minor in Art History

• Duration: Varies (typically 18 credit hours)
• Description: This minor provides students with a foundational understanding of art history, covering major periods, movements, and critical theories. It is ideal for students interested in careers in museums, galleries, or cultural organizations.

Certificate in Museum Studies

• Duration: Varies (typically 12-15 credit hours)
• Description: The Certificate in Museum Studies is designed for students interested in careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. The program covers topics such as curation, collections management, exhibition design, and museum education.
  • Highlights: Students gain practical experience through internships at local museums and cultural organizations.

Certificate in Digital Media

• Duration: Varies (typically 12-15 credit hours)
• Description: This certificate program focuses on digital art and design, including animation, video production, interactive media, and 3D modeling. It is ideal for students seeking to enhance their technical skills in digital art.

Study Abroad and Internship Opportunities

The School of Art encourages students to broaden their horizons through study abroad programs and internships. These opportunities allow students to gain global perspectives, engage with diverse cultures, and build professional networks.

• Study Abroad: Programs in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, focusing on art history, studio art, and cultural studies.
• Internships: Partnerships with local and national museums, galleries, design firms, and cultural organizations provide students with hands-on experience in the arts.

Professional Development and Career Support

The School of Art is committed to helping students transition from academia to the professional world. Career services include:

• Portfolio reviews and career counseling.
• Workshops on grant writing, artist statements, and professional practices.
• Networking events with alumni and industry professionals.

Why Study Art at the University of Houston?

The School of Art at the University of Houston offers a comprehensive range of academic programs that cater to students at all levels, from undergraduates exploring their creative potential to graduate students refining their professional practice. With its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, hands-on experience, and community engagement, the School of Art provides students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of art and design. Whether you are pursuing a career as a studio artist, designer, art historian, or museum professional, the School of Art at the University of Houston offers a transformative educational experience tailored to your goals.

Contact Information for the School of Art at the University of Houston

Address

School of Art, University of Houston
Fine Arts Building
4173 Elgin Street
Houston, TX 77204-4019
USA

Phone Numbers

• Main Office: +1 (713) 743-3001
• Advising Office: +1 (713) 743-3002
• Fax: +1 (713) 743-9328

Email Addresses

• General Inquiries: art@uh.edu
• Undergraduate Advising: artadvising@uh.edu
• Graduate Programs: artgraduate@uh.edu
• Art History Inquiries: arthistory@uh.edu

Website

University of Houston School of Art Official Website

Social Media Accounts

• Facebook: University of Houston School of Art on Facebook
• Instagram: @uhschoolofart
• Twitter: @UHSchoolofArt
• YouTube: University of Houston School of Art on YouTube