The world as you see it
Art invokes insights, tells stories, records history, expresses emotions, illuminates our relationships and helps shape a complex world. Major in studio art at the University of Mary Washington and you’ll study contemporary issues and conceptual approaches to making art. All the while, you’ll expand your skills and your portfolio – in drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, printmaking, digital media, and more.
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, animation, digital media 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 the UMW Galleries, LibertyTown Arts Workshop, Sophia Street Studios, the Visual Arts Center, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and at galleries and museums in Washington.
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.
The studio art major requires 42 credits, including 15 in required courses, 21 in medium-specific studio courses, and 6 in art history. Studio art majors are also required to participate in a major assessment before their senior year, and a senior assessment involving either an exhibition or an exit portfolio.
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.