Visual Arts

The Visual Arts program at Duke University offers students an immersive and comprehensive education in the creative fields of painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital media, and interdisciplinary practices. Designed to foster artistic innovation and critical engagement, the program provides students with opportunities to develop technical skills, deepen their understanding of art history, and articulate their unique artistic voices. Students in the program benefit from a rigorous curriculum that balances studio practice, theoretical knowledge, and contemporary art discourse, enabling them to evolve as thoughtful and versatile artists. The program encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore a broad spectrum of media and techniques in state-of-the-art facilities equipped with advanced tools and technology. Faculty members are accomplished artists and scholars who mentor students through individual projects, group exhibitions, and collaborative initiatives, fostering a vibrant community of creative inquiry. The program also emphasizes the integration of visual arts with other disciplines, preparing graduates for diverse careers in art production, curation, education, digital media, and beyond. Students participate in exhibitions, portfolio reviews, and artist talks that connect them with leading professionals in the art world, providing valuable networking and professional development opportunities. With a strong foundation in both traditional and contemporary art practices, the Duke Visual Arts program empowers students to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of visual culture. Whether pursuing studio mastery, art theory, or interdisciplinary work, students emerge from the program prepared to make impactful artistic, cultural, and societal contributions.

• Common Application or Coalition Application
• Early Decision Agreement
• Secondary School Report with Counselor Recommendation
• High School Transcript
• Two Teacher Recommendations
• First Quarter Grades
• Midyear Grade Report
• Final Transcript
• SAT (Two Subject Tests strongly recommended) or ACT with Writing
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Minimum band score expected: 7
• ​PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) Minimum score expected: 70
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) Minimum scores expected: 100 on the internet-based TOEFL, 600 on the paper-based TOEFL

Scholarships

Duke University will meet full demonstrated financial need for a limited number of international students. Each year Duke expects to enroll 20-25 first-year foreign citizens who receive need-based financial aid and/or merit-based scholarships. There is no need-based aid for international transfer applicants.

The Visual Arts program at Duke University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in various aspects of the visual arts, including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and interdisciplinary practices. The program aims to foster critical thinking, technical skill, and creative innovation, preparing students for careers in art-making, curatorial work, arts administration, and further academic pursuits in the arts. Students have the opportunity to engage with a dynamic faculty composed of active artists, scholars, and art professionals who provide mentorship and guide students through their artistic development. The curriculum emphasizes both studio practice and art history, encouraging students to critically analyze their own work and situate it within broader cultural and historical contexts. Facilities include well-equipped studios, galleries, and digital labs that support diverse artistic mediums and techniques. The program also encourages participation in exhibitions, internships, and community projects to build professional experience and public engagement skills. Duke’s location offers students access to a vibrant arts scene in Durham and the Research Triangle, providing additional opportunities for networking and exposure to contemporary art. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Visual Arts typically requires completion of core courses in fundamental techniques and principles, alongside electives that allow specialization in areas of interest. The program may also include opportunities for interdisciplinary collaborations with other departments, such as architecture or digital media. Graduates of the program often go on to pursue graduate studies, find employment in art galleries and museums, or create their own professional artistic practices. The department is committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in the arts, fostering a supportive and innovative environment for all students.