The University of Washington School of Art + Art History + Design is a premier institution offering a diverse range of programs in visual arts, art history, and design, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and innovation. Located in the vibrant city of Seattle, the school is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, making it a top choice for students pursuing careers in the arts and design industries. With a strong emphasis on research, collaboration, and community engagement, the school provides a dynamic environment for students to explore their artistic passions and develop their professional skills.

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University of Washington | School of Art + Art History + Design

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Programs and Degrees

The School of Art + Art History + Design offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and career goals of its students. These programs include:

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art: A comprehensive program that allows students to explore various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital arts.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art: A more focused and intensive program for students seeking to refine their skills and develop a professional portfolio.
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History: A program that delves into the historical and cultural contexts of art, preparing students for careers in museums, galleries, and academia.
• Bachelor of Design (BDes) in Visual Communication Design: A program that combines creativity with technology, focusing on graphic design, user experience, and interactive media.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Art: An advanced program that supports students in developing a mature body of work and preparing for professional practice in the arts.
• Master of Arts (MA) in Art History: A research-intensive program that prepares students for doctoral studies or careers in curatorial work and art criticism.

Faculty and Research

The School of Art + Art History + Design boasts a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, designers, and scholars who are leaders in their respective fields. The faculty’s expertise spans a wide range of disciplines, including contemporary art, design theory, digital media, and art conservation. The school is also home to several research centers and initiatives, such as the Center for Digital Arts and Experimental Media (DXARTS), which explores the intersection of art, science, and technology. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining valuable hands-on experience and contributing to the advancement of the field.

Facilities and Resources

The school is equipped with cutting-edge facilities that support both traditional and contemporary artistic practices. These include:

• Art Studios: Spacious and well-equipped studios for painting, sculpture, printmaking, and photography.
• Digital Labs: Advanced computer labs with industry-standard software for graphic design, animation, and digital media.
• Exhibition Spaces: On-campus galleries that showcase student and faculty work, as well as exhibitions by visiting artists.
• Research Libraries: Access to extensive collections of art and design resources, including rare books, archives, and digital databases.

Community and Engagement

The School of Art + Art History + Design is deeply committed to fostering a sense of community and engagement among its students, faculty, and the broader public. The school regularly hosts lectures, workshops, and symposia featuring prominent artists, designers, and scholars from around the world. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programs, and community-based projects, gaining real-world experience and building professional networks. The school also collaborates with local arts organizations, museums, and design firms, providing students with opportunities to engage with the vibrant cultural landscape of Seattle and beyond.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admission to the School of Art + Art History + Design is competitive, with applicants required to submit a portfolio of their work, along with academic transcripts and letters of recommendation. The school offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships, to support students in their academic and artistic pursuits. Prospective students are encouraged to attend information sessions and open houses to learn more about the programs and the application process.

Alumni and Career Opportunities

Graduates of the School of Art + Art History + Design have gone on to achieve success in a variety of fields, including fine arts, graphic design, art education, and museum curation. The school’s strong alumni network provides ongoing support and mentorship, helping graduates navigate their careers and stay connected to the artistic community. Career services offered by the school include portfolio reviews, job placement assistance, and networking events, ensuring that students are well-prepared to enter the professional world.

For more information about the University of Washington School of Art + Art History + Design, visit their official website at art.washington.edu.

Academic Programs Offered at University of Washington | School of Art + Art History + Design

Division of Art

The Division of Art at the University of Washington offers programs that emphasize creative exploration, technical skill development, and critical thinking in the visual arts. Students engage in a variety of mediums and practices, preparing them for careers as professional artists, educators, and creative practitioners.

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art: A four-year program that provides a broad foundation in studio art, including courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and develop their unique artistic voice.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art: A more intensive four-year program designed for students seeking a professional career in the arts. The BFA curriculum includes advanced studio courses, critiques, and the development of a cohesive body of work, culminating in a senior thesis exhibition.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Art: A three-year graduate program that supports students in refining their artistic practice and preparing for professional careers. The program emphasizes independent research, studio work, and critical discourse, culminating in a thesis exhibition and written document.

Division of Art History

The Division of Art History offers programs that explore the historical, cultural, and theoretical contexts of art. Students gain a deep understanding of art’s role in society and develop skills in research, analysis, and critical writing.

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art History: A four-year program that introduces students to the history of art from ancient to contemporary periods. The curriculum covers a wide range of cultures and artistic movements, with opportunities for specialized study in areas such as Renaissance art, modern art, and non-Western art.
• Master of Arts (MA) in Art History: A two-year graduate program that focuses on advanced research and scholarship in art history. Students work closely with faculty to develop expertise in a specific area of study, culminating in a master’s thesis. The program prepares students for doctoral studies or careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions.

Division of Design

The Division of Design offers programs that blend creativity with technology, preparing students for careers in visual communication, user experience, and interactive media. The curriculum emphasizes design thinking, problem-solving, and the development of technical skills.

• Bachelor of Design (BDes) in Visual Communication Design: A four-year program that focuses on graphic design, typography, branding, and user experience design. Students learn to create visually compelling and effective communication solutions for a variety of media, including print, web, and mobile applications.
• Minor in Interaction Design: A supplementary program that introduces students to the principles of interaction design, including user research, prototyping, and usability testing. The minor is open to students from all disciplines and complements majors in design, computer science, and related fields.

Interdisciplinary and Special Programs

The School of Art + Art History + Design also offers interdisciplinary programs and special opportunities that allow students to explore connections between art, technology, and other fields.

• Center for Digital Arts and Experimental Media (DXARTS): An interdisciplinary research center that explores the intersection of art, science, and technology. DXARTS offers courses, workshops, and research opportunities for students interested in digital media, sound art, and experimental practices.
• Study Abroad Programs: The school offers study abroad opportunities that allow students to explore art and design in a global context. Programs are available in locations such as Italy, Japan, and South Africa, providing students with unique cultural and artistic experiences.
• Internships and Community Engagement: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships with local arts organizations, design firms, and museums. The school also collaborates with community partners on projects that address social and environmental issues through art and design.

For more detailed information about the academic programs offered at the University of Washington School of Art + Art History + Design, visit their official website at art.washington.edu.

Contact Information for University of Washington | School of Art + Art History + Design

Address:
University of Washington
School of Art + Art History + Design

Art Building
4000 15th Ave NE Room 104
Seattle, WA 98105
USA

104 Stevens Way
Seattle, WA 98195
USA

Phone:
+1 (206) 543-0970

Email:

askartadmin@uw.edu
soaweb@uw.edu

Website:
https://art.washington.edu/

Social Media Accounts:
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