Channel your talents and passion through the University of Mary Washington’s major in studio art. Our master teachers will help you hone your skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, printmaking, and digital media, and explore contemporary issues and conceptual approaches to making art. You’ll enhance your portfolio, exhibit your work, and create a vision for your artistic career.
Degree Awarded
Students majoring in Studio Art who complete all requirements earn the degree of Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Studio Art.
Areas of Study
UMW’s bachelor’s program in studio art will challenge you with courses in drawing, ceramics, sculpture, photography, painting, and other media. You’ll learn color theory, professional practices, and more.
Career Opportunities
With a bachelor’s degree in studio art from UMW, you’ll be prepared for such careers as graphic artist, illustrator, photographer, cartoonist, sketch artist, animator, designer, gallery owner, visual merchandiser, or art appraiser, among other possibilities.
Internships
A rich arts community in Fredericksburg and surrounding areas, including Richmond and Washington, D.C., offers many internship opportunities. UMW students have gained work experience at LibertyTown Arts Workshop, Sophia Street Studios, the Visual Arts Center, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and at galleries and museums in Washington.
Honors
To qualify for honors in studio art, you must have a 3.5 grade-point average in the major and a 3.25 average overall. You’ll participate in all phases of a senior exhibition (including planning and selecting work, installation, advertising, reception, and de-installation) and in a studio art faculty group critique.
Requirements
The studio art major requires 39 credits, including 12 in required courses, 21 in a chosen area of studio art, and nine in art history. Studio art majors also are required to participate in a major assessment before their senior year, and a senior assessment involving either an exhibition or an exit portfolio.
Scholarships
The Department of Art and Art history hosts a number of competitive scholarships in studio art. Studio art majors wishing to be considered for scholarships must demonstrate outstanding work in studio coursework. Recipients will file an artist statement and images with the scholarship coordinator.