Art Institutes Newsletter! Subscribe Now... learn more

Washington State University (WSU) | Department of Art

535 Views

Add Favorite

Description

The Department of Art at Washington State University (WSU) offers a comprehensive and dynamic range of programs in visual arts, including Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees, designed to foster creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking in emerging artists. Located in Pullman, Washington, the department is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to nurturing students’ artistic voices through rigorous academic training and hands-on studio practice. With a focus on both traditional and contemporary art forms, the WSU Department of Art prepares students for successful careers in the ever-evolving world of visual arts.

Thank you for visiting Art Institutes, don't forget to subscribe to the Art Institutes Newsletter!

Programs and Degrees

The Department of Art at WSU provides a variety of academic pathways tailored to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of its students. The programs are structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for professional success.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art: This program offers a broad foundation in art history, theory, and practice, allowing students to explore multiple disciplines such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): A more intensive program, the BFA emphasizes studio practice and portfolio development, with concentrations available in areas like painting, photography, printmaking, and digital arts.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): The MFA program is a terminal degree designed for advanced students seeking to refine their artistic practice and engage in critical discourse. It includes opportunities for teaching assistantships, exhibitions, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Art8 "Webinars for Creatives" https://art8.net

Facilities and Resources

The Department of Art boasts cutting-edge facilities that support a wide range of artistic practices. Students have access to specialized studios, labs, and equipment, ensuring they can fully realize their creative visions.

Drawing and Painting Studios: Spacious, well-lit studios equipped with easels, drafting tables, and natural light.
Digital Media Lab: A state-of-the-art lab featuring high-end computers, software, and tools for digital art, animation, and graphic design.
Printmaking Studio: Facilities for traditional and experimental printmaking techniques, including lithography, etching, and screen printing.
Sculpture Studio: A fully equipped workspace for woodworking, metalworking, and mixed-media sculpture.
Photography Lab: Darkrooms and digital photography equipment for both analog and digital image-making.

Faculty and Mentorship

The Department of Art is home to a distinguished faculty of practicing artists, scholars, and educators who are dedicated to mentoring students and fostering their artistic growth. Faculty members bring a wealth of professional experience and academic expertise, offering personalized guidance and support throughout students’ academic journeys.

Expertise Across Disciplines: Faculty members specialize in a wide range of media and methodologies, from traditional techniques to cutting-edge digital practices.
Exhibition Opportunities: Students are encouraged to participate in exhibitions, both on-campus and in the broader community, to gain real-world experience and build their professional portfolios.
Research and Collaboration: The department promotes interdisciplinary research and collaboration, allowing students to work on projects that integrate art with other fields such as science, technology, and humanities.

Student Life and Community

The Department of Art at WSU fosters a vibrant and inclusive community where students can connect, collaborate, and grow. The department organizes numerous events, workshops, and guest lectures to enrich students’ educational experiences.

Art Student Organizations: Student-led groups such as the Art Collective and Photography Club provide opportunities for networking, skill-building, and creative expression.
Guest Artists and Lectures: The department regularly hosts visiting artists and scholars, offering students exposure to diverse perspectives and practices.
Exhibitions and Galleries: Students have the opportunity to showcase their work in the WSU Art Galleries, which feature rotating exhibitions of student, faculty, and guest artist work.

Career Opportunities and Alumni Success

Graduates of the WSU Department of Art are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in the arts and beyond. The department’s emphasis on critical thinking, technical skills, and professional development ensures that students are ready to thrive in competitive fields.

Professional Pathways: Alumni have gone on to successful careers as professional artists, educators, designers, curators, and arts administrators.
Portfolio Development: The department places a strong emphasis on building a professional portfolio, a key asset for securing internships, jobs, and graduate school placements.
Alumni Network: Graduates join a global network of WSU art alumni, providing valuable connections and opportunities for collaboration.

Admissions and Financial Aid

The Department of Art welcomes applications from students with a passion for the visual arts. The admissions process is designed to identify talented and motivated individuals who will contribute to the department’s vibrant community.

Application Requirements: Prospective students must submit a portfolio, transcripts, and a statement of intent. Specific requirements vary by program.
Scholarships and Funding: The department offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support students in their academic pursuits.
Visiting Campus: Interested students are encouraged to visit the campus, tour the facilities, and meet with faculty and current students.

Academic Programs Offered at Washington State University (WSU) | Department of Art

Undergraduate Programs

The Department of Art at WSU offers a range of undergraduate programs designed to provide students with a strong foundation in visual arts, critical thinking, and creative practice. These programs cater to students with diverse interests and career goals.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art: This program provides a broad-based education in the visual arts, combining studio practice with art history and theory. Students can explore various mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital arts. The BA program typically takes four years to complete and is ideal for students seeking a flexible and interdisciplinary approach to art.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): The BFA is a more intensive program focused on studio practice and professional development. Students can choose from concentrations such as painting, photography, printmaking, and digital arts. The program emphasizes portfolio development and prepares students for careers as professional artists or further study at the graduate level. The BFA program also takes four years to complete.

Graduate Programs

The Department of Art offers advanced graduate programs for students seeking to deepen their artistic practice and engage in critical discourse. These programs are designed for students pursuing careers as professional artists, educators, or scholars.

Master of Fine Arts (MFA): The MFA is a terminal degree program that focuses on advanced studio practice, research, and critical theory. Students work closely with faculty mentors to develop a cohesive body of work and participate in exhibitions, critiques, and interdisciplinary collaborations. The program typically takes two to three years to complete and includes opportunities for teaching assistantships and professional development.

Areas of Focus

The Department of Art offers specialized areas of focus within its programs, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. These areas of focus provide in-depth training and hands-on experience in various artistic disciplines.

Drawing and Painting: Students explore traditional and contemporary techniques in drawing and painting, with an emphasis on conceptual development and technical mastery. Courses cover topics such as figure drawing, color theory, and mixed media.
Photography: This area of focus includes both analog and digital photography, with courses in darkroom techniques, digital imaging, and photo theory. Students learn to create compelling visual narratives and develop a professional portfolio.
Printmaking: Students engage in traditional and experimental printmaking techniques, including lithography, etching, screen printing, and relief printing. The program emphasizes innovation and the integration of printmaking with other media.
Digital Arts: This area of focus covers digital media, animation, graphic design, and interactive art. Students work with industry-standard software and tools to create dynamic and engaging digital works.
Sculpture: Students explore three-dimensional art-making through woodworking, metalworking, and mixed-media sculpture. Courses emphasize material exploration, spatial relationships, and conceptual development.

Additional Opportunities

In addition to the formal degree programs, the Department of Art offers a variety of opportunities for students to enhance their education and gain practical experience.

Study Abroad: Students can participate in study abroad programs to gain international perspectives and inspiration for their artistic practice.
Internships: The department partners with local and regional organizations to provide internship opportunities in galleries, museums, and arts organizations.
Workshops and Guest Lectures: The department regularly hosts workshops and lectures by visiting artists and scholars, offering students exposure to diverse practices and ideas.

Admissions and Requirements

Prospective students must meet specific admissions requirements for each program, including submission of a portfolio, transcripts, and a statement of intent. Detailed information about admissions and application deadlines can be found on the department’s website.

Contact Information for Washington State University (WSU) | Department of Art

For inquiries, admissions, or general information about the Department of Art at Washington State University, please use the following contact details:

Address:
Department of Art
Washington State University
Fine Arts Building, Room 1001
Pullman, WA 99164-7460
Phone:
(509) 335-8686
Email:
art.department@wsu.edu
Website:
https://art.wsu.edu/
Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/WSUArt
https://www.instagram.com/wsuart/
https://twitter.com/WSUArt

WSU Art social media WSU Art portfolio Bachelor of Fine Arts WSU Art internships Master of Fine Arts WSU Art study abroad Washington State University Department of Art WSU Art alumni WSU Art programs WSU Art events Bachelor of Arts in Art WSU Art faculty WSU Art facilities WSU Art admissions WSU Art scholarships WSU Art exhibitions WSU Art studios WSU Art courses WSU Art degrees WSU Art contact

Features & Benefits

On-Campus Galleries/Exhibitions

Professional Networking Events

Public Art Exhibitions and Installations

Company Branding and Recruitment

Industry Partnerships and Internships

Entrepreneurship/Incubator Programs

Continuing Education and Workshops

Small Class Sizes

Collaborative Cross-Disciplinary Projects

Youth and K-12 Outreach Programs

Hands-On Studio/Lab Facilities

Art Therapy and Wellness Offerings

Artist-in-Residence Programs

Visiting Artist Lectures/Workshops

Community Outreach and Engagement

Community Gallery Space and Arts Rentals

Study Abroad/Exchange Programs

Green/Sustainable Campus Initiatives

Collaborative Projects with Local Organizations

Flexible/Evening/Weekend Classes

Accessible Facilities and Services

Business and Entrepreneurship Support

Online/Hybrid Learning Options

Accredited and Recognized Programs

Arts-Integrated City/Regional Planning

Student Clubs and Organizations

Experienced and Credentialed Faculty

Job-Ready Graduates with Relevant Skills

Campus Art Supplies Store

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Equipment

Opportunities for Internships and Hires

On-Site Cafeteria/Dining

Robust Industry Partnerships and Placements

Advisory Board Participation

Accredited Programs

Dedicated Academic Advising

Diverse Student Body and Campus Community

Research and Consulting Partnerships

Financial Aid Available

Alumni Network and Mentorship

Comprehensive Marketing and Recruitment

Customized Training and Upskilling Programs

Scholarships Offered

Maker Spaces and Fabrication Labs

Effective Fundraising and Donor Relations

Access to Diverse Talent Pool

Career Placement Assistance

Guest Artist Residency Programs

Streamlined Administrative Processes

Continuing Education for Employees

Student Housing Options

Portfolio Development Workshops

Commitment to Sustainability and Impact

Thought Leadership and Industry Events

Services

Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art WSU

Students have unique access to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, located on campus, which provides opportunities for exhibitions, internships, and engagement with contemporary and historical art collections.

WSU Art Galleries

The department manages multiple on-campus galleries, including the Fine Arts Gallery and the WSU Museum of Art, where students can exhibit their work and gain hands-on experience in curating and gallery management.

State-of-the-Art Fine Arts Building

The Department of Art is housed in the Fine Arts Building, which features specialized studios, galleries, and labs designed specifically for WSU art students, fostering a creative and collaborative environment.

Visiting Artist and Scholar Series

WSU Art hosts a renowned Visiting Artist and Scholar Series, bringing nationally and internationally recognized artists to campus for lectures, workshops, and one-on-one critiques with students.

Integrated Digital Arts and Technology Lab

The department features a specialized lab for digital arts, offering advanced tools for animation, virtual reality, and interactive media, unique to WSU’s focus on blending art and technology.

Printmaking Research Center

WSU’s Printmaking Research Center is a unique facility that supports traditional and experimental printmaking techniques, including lithography, etching, and screen printing, with access to professional-grade equipment.

Art in Public Spaces Program

Students can participate in WSU’s Art in Public Spaces program, which commissions and installs student and faculty artwork across campus and in the community, providing real-world experience in public art projects.

Interdisciplinary Art and Science Collaborations

WSU Art offers unique opportunities for students to collaborate with the sciences, such as the Art + Science Residency, where artists and scientists work together on innovative projects.

WSU Art Study Abroad in Italy

The department offers a unique study abroad program in Italy, focusing on art history, studio practice, and cultural immersion, exclusive to WSU art students.

Annual Art Faculty Triennial Exhibition

A unique event where WSU art faculty showcase their work, providing students with insight into professional artistic practices and fostering mentorship opportunities.