Purposes

Through the making of art and the study of art history, criticism and aesthetics, the department seeks to:

• Develop proficiencies in the studio and design arts.
• Advance visual literacy through the study of art history, art criticism, and aesthetics.
• Promote the cultural, intellectual, spiritual, and aesthetic life of students and the university.
• Prepare students for art-related careers or graduate studies.

Tradition of Excellence

The Department of Art and Design considers the visual arts to be an essential means of communicating societal values, images, and identities. The program builds on the university’s liberal arts foundation of Foundational Explorations. Students explore relationships between the art disciplines and build connections with other academic fields. Studies in traditional, non-traditional, western, and non-western art forms encourage students to develop a broad understanding of the visual arts.

The Department of Art and Design offers three majors: Visual Arts, Art Education, and Graphic Design. In all majors a core of foundation courses lead to advanced studies in the discipline. Independent studies and study abroad programs are available, as well as internships in local museums and art and design-related businesses. The Keller Gallery program includes both professional and student exhibitions. A visiting artist program provides bridges into the professional community of practicing artists. Students also benefit from the university’s proximity to the arts community and prominent art museums, galleries and collections in San Diego, Los Angeles, and Baja California, Mexico.

Career Opportunities

Alumni from the Department of Art and Design have earned advanced degrees from some of the top graduate programs in the country while others have achieved professional careers in art related fields: fine arts, graphic design, web design, publishing, museum and gallery work, arts management, and art education.

Faculty

David Adey, M.F.A.
Cranbook Academy of Art

J. David Carlson, M.F.A.
Vermont College of Fine Art

Lael Corbin, M.F.A.
San Diego State University

Karah Lain, M.F.A.
Oregon College of Art & Craft

Courtney Mayer, M.F.A.
Washington State University

To view requirements for majors, minors, and certificates, see the Degree Program Information page.