Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art

Program details

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art (formerly Integrated Studio Arts) focuses on in-depth studio work with an emphasis on crossing conceptual and media boundaries. It is designed for students intending to become professional artists and those planning to continue their studies in a graduate program in studio art.

The BFA is an enrollment-managed, accredited four-year degree program. Students enter the major as Pre-Art students. The pre-major designation indicates that a student has not yet received admission to the full Art major. To remove the pre-major designation a student may complete one of the two following options:

• Complete the College of Design Core Program at Iowa State University and subsequent application to the Art major.
• Submit a portfolio containing images of original artwork created during high school and/or college/university experience on Slideroom by April 15.

Applicants choosing the second option are guaranteed admission to the BFA in Art program pending completion of the Core Program, 30 credits, and minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA without submitting to the application process described in option one.

Curriculum

Our unique curriculum emphasizes breadth in technique with a focus on conceptual development and problem solving. The art studio is the fundamental structure for BFA students to develop an understanding and ability to apply the design process through diverse media. In their sophomore year, students complete rotations in our eight media areas: ceramics, textiles, jewelry/metalsmithing, furniture design, painting, printmaking, digital media, and photography. Classes in color theory and intermediate drawing round out the year.

Junior and senior-level studios provide focused investigation in specific media areas and help prepare students for professional practice and/or graduate study toward a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree. Art history courses enhance the studio environment by providing a strong context as students develop their ideas and technical abilities.

Interdisciplinary opportunities are encouraged, and independent study options are available following the completion of regular course offerings. A required seminar/exhibition serves as a capstone experience in the final year.

Recent Student Work

Possible career paths

With numerous opportunities for students to pursue internships or advanced education, and with support from the college’s Career Services office, we make it easy for students explore career opportunities. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art degree from Iowa State may lead to careers in:

• 3D animation, digital illustration and video/computer game design
• Furniture design
• Ceramics
• Jewelry and metalsmithing
• Textiles
• Drawing
• Painting
• Printmaking
• Photography