Studio Arts

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Arts at South Dakota State University provides students with a comprehensive and immersive educational experience designed to cultivate their creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking in various artistic disciplines. This program offers a rich curriculum that emphasizes both foundational art principles and advanced studio practices, enabling students to develop a versatile portfolio suitable for diverse professional opportunities in the arts sector. Students have the opportunity to explore multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, digital arts, and mixed media, fostering a well-rounded artistic education.

Throughout the program, students receive personalized instruction from experienced faculty who are active practitioners and scholars in their respective fields. The curriculum combines studio coursework, art history, and contemporary art theory, encouraging students to contextualize their work within current artistic dialogues. Emphasis is placed on developing technical mastery, innovative problem-solving skills, and an understanding of aesthetic and conceptual issues. Students are encouraged to experiment, push boundaries, and engage critically with their work and the art community.

The program also provides students with access to modern studios, laboratories, and exhibition spaces, facilitating hands-on learning and professional development. Opportunities for exhibitions, artist talks, internships, and collaborations with local art organizations are integral components of the program, helping students to build networks and prepare for careers in fine art, education, gallery management, or other creative industries. Graduates of the BFA in Studio Arts are equipped not only with technical proficiency but also with a strong artistic identity and the ability to communicate visually and conceptually.

South Dakota State University's supportive academic environment, combined with its focus on experiential learning and community engagement, ensures students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for both graduate studies and a wide range of professional paths in the arts. Whether pursuing a career as a professional artist, educator, or arts administrator, students in the Studio Arts program graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in a dynamic and evolving artistic landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• USD 7933 Year (National)
• USD 18044 Year (International)

• English

Course Content

• Art History Advanced Writing
• History of United States Art and Architecture
• Modern Art and Architecture Survey
• First Review
• Drawing
• Drawing
• Design
• ADesign
• Three Dimensional Design
• Portfolio Review Jury on Student Progress
• Drawing
• Senior Review
• Art Appreciation
• History of World Art
• Painting
• Sculpture
• Ceramics
• Printmaking
• Computer Graphics

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 5.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 550 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Visual Arts students must maintain at least a major GPA of 2.6 and an overall GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the duration of the program. A grade of “C” or better is required in all ART, ARTD, ARTE and ARTH courses required for the major.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than South Dakota State University.

Accreditation

South Dakota State University has been granted the full, ten-year reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission. An accreditation team of representatives from peer institutions commended SDSU for:

• Dedicated faculty and staff
• Quality new facilities
• Excellent student leadership
• Shared governance
• Partnerships with local community
• Robust and Integrated assessment program
• Successful transition to NCAA Division I Athletics