Work with highly respected faculty to develop your unique artistic vision through painting and drawing, positioning you to successfully engage in the larger global art community.
The BFA program in art with a concentration in painting and drawing offers a dynamic environment for creative and conceptual growth that leads students to a successful studio art practice in the 21st century.
The program's curriculum encourages a wide spectrum of innovative approaches to painting and drawing. Working from a variety of sources and subjects, students develop technical proficiency through experimentation with a wide range of materials and processes. In addition, students develop the ability to critically assess imagery through the development of written and verbal communication. In concentration courses, students develop creative problem-solving skills, examine other artist's paths, and build confidence in their ability to engage intellectually and reflect deeply regarding broader contexts.
In their capstone and research studio courses, students develop a portfolio of work with an individualized approach to form and content. The senior thesis exhibition gives students practical experience in presenting a body of work in a professional gallery setting. Students graduate from the program prepared for the future with a portfolio of completed works and experience in professional practice.
Students declare their Bachelor of Fine Arts concentration at the time of ASU admission. Following admission, if students wish to change their concentration, they may meet with their School of Art academic advisor.
At A Glance
Art (Painting and Drawing), BFA
- Offered by: Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts
- Location: Tempe
- Math Intensity: General
Required Courses
A major map outlines a major's critical requirements, courses, and optimal course sequence and aids students in remaining on track to graduation.
While circumstances vary between students and their paths towards graduation (utilizing placement testing to fulfill required math or foreign language courses, fulfilling multiple General Studies requirements with one course, etc.), completing the courses listed in a major map fulfills all of the requirements for graduation.
Application requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:
Affording college
Scholarships
Find and apply for relevant scholarships.
Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career outlook
This program prepares students to initiate creative careers as visual artists and as professionals in the public and private sphere. Career opportunities depend on focus areas and additional education or training per industry standards.
Professions are varied; some examples include independent artist, illustrator, mural painter, commission artist, museum or gallery professional, art dealer, creative art director, private school teacher, college instructor, and community-based artist (venues might include health care settings, nonprofit agencies, local or national public arts).
Example careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Special Effects Artists and Animators | 4.1% | $77,700 |
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | 5.6% | $69,690 |
| Craft Artists | -1% | $35,180 |
| Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators | 1% | $52,340 |
| Graphic Designers | -3.8% | $53,380 |
| Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | 3.8% | $62,870 |
| Artists and Related Workers, All Other | -0.2% | $65,800 |
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | 11.8% | $75,420 |
| Video Game Designers |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation