Successful majors are creative, skilled at problem solving, and have an entrepreneurial approach to their work and life. The BFA requires a dedication to producing accomplished studio work completed in classes that are time-intensive.

The BFA in Art Studio (ART) is intended for students whose goal is a studio career in the visual arts, and who are willing to commit the time and energy to achieve professional competence in one of the eight areas of ART emphasis. Graduates pursue the professional production and exhibition of their own art, or more in-depth study at the graduate school level.

To best prepare to begin ART upper-level major courses, complete the equivalent of as many JMU Foundations courses as possible (ARTH 205, 206; ART 102, 104, 106 & 108). Assemble a portfolio of work for consideration for 'artistic admission' by portfolio review to the JMU School of Art, Design and Art History (SADAH), which includes acceptance to your chosen major of ART BFA. Consult transferology.com to see that JMU grants transfer credit in the major for the equivalent of JMU Foundations classes, and also regularly grants credit for 200-level (introductory) courses in specific media, credits that can be applied as “Studio art and art-related electives” in the major.

With ART Foundations classes fulfilled, as well as all General Education courses, in two academic years students can complete the 54 remaining credits in the ART BFA major.

• Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year
• Connect with an advisor at your community college and James Madison University within your first year via College Connect

Art Studio BS majors concentrate in one of eight areas of emphasis: Ceramics, Fiber Arts & Weaving, I3D Emphasis, Metals & Jewelry, Painting & Drawing, Photography, Printmaking, and Sculpture. Students work closely with the practicing artists who form the diverse team of our Studio faculty. Visiting artists and scholars, workshops, field trips and frequent on-campus exhibitions of professional artwork enhance student engagement with contemporary art and diverse global cultures. Additionally, students have many opportunities to exhibit and present their artwork on campus, to assist in running on-campus galleries and studio art labs, and to partake in other hands-on art experiences.

Art Studio graduates are now exhibiting artists, art directors, arts administrators, art therapists, book designers, art conservators, arts entrepreneurs, exhibit designers, gallery directors and owners, illustrators, model makers, arts outreach coordinators, and university faculty. The Art Education Teaching licensure can be incorporated into the degree program, and many of our graduates also pursue successful careers as practicing artists working in K-12 Art Education; our art licensure graduates have a 100% employment rate in the field at graduation.

• Completing your Associate transfer degree post-high school satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree?
• Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and have limited your future financial aid at: James Madison University