Art Degree (B.A.), Fine Arts

Art student working on a project.

Beyond the Canvas: Fine Arts for Ambitious Artists and Graduate-Bound Creators

The Fine Arts Concentration is designed for art majors who are focused on advancing their artistic practice and preparing for graduate studies in studio art (MFA). To fulfill this concentration, students must complete an additional 18 credits beyond the Art Major requirements. This includes advanced studio courses such as ART 0309 (Advanced Drawing), offering the opportunity to refine technical skills and explore new artistic techniques. Students also select a 200- or 300-level elective in art studio or art history, further enhancing their creative and academic expertise. The program culminates in a Thesis project (ART 0320), where students develop a cohesive body of work that demonstrates their artistic vision and readiness for graduate-level study. The Fine Arts Concentration provides an intensive, focused curriculum designed to support those pursuing careers in the fine arts or further education in MFA programs.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 credits
  • Refine your skills in drawing, painting, and sculpture
  • Expand your artistic practice through diverse studio electives
  • Prepare for MFA programs with a focused curriculum

Bring Your Vision to Life

Pursue the Fine Arts Concentration and transform your creativity!

Enhance Your Abilities: Develop Expertise and Succeed in the Fine Arts

  • Dower Studio 168 with student working on a project with faculty member.

    Advanced Artistic Development

    The Fine Arts Concentration offers in-depth studio courses designed to refine your skills in various media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Through hands-on practice and expert faculty guidance, you’ll elevate your artistic techniques and creative expression.

  • Art students at undergraduate commencement ceremony holding art banner.

    Thesis Project Experience

    A key element of the program is the personalized thesis project, where you’ll create a cohesive body of work showcasing your artistic growth. This capstone experience prepares you for professional exhibitions or graduate-level portfolios required for MFA programs.

  • George Ramirez

    Personalized Mentorship

    Receive one-on-one guidance from experienced faculty who are dedicated to helping you develop your unique artistic voice, refine your techniques, and achieve your creative goals.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Developed capacity for critical, creative, investigative, and conceptual thinking
  • Ability to identify and solve visual and conceptual problems
  • Ability to present and communicate effectively, creatively, and critically across a range of form and media
  • Generate a personal focus and contribute an independent voice to the world
  • Be ready to work as professionals in art education; art history; design; fine arts; illustration and animation
  • Refer to the fullest range of historical and contemporary art and design sources from across cultures and time
  • Apply a wide range of research methods and technologies in gathering and analyzing information
  • Engage effectively in individual and/or collaborative approaches to work

What Can You Do With a Fine Arts Concentration?

A Fine Arts Concentration opens the door to diverse creative careers and advanced educational opportunities. Here are some career paths:

  • Arts Administration
  • Art Conservator/Restorer
  • Art Director
  • Freelance Artist or Designer
  • Graduate Studies
  • Illustrator
  • Museum or Gallery Curator
  • Professional Artist
Art student working on a painting in a Dower Center Studio.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

For the art major who is interested in a career in fine arts or preparation for graduate school in studio art (MFA), an additional 18 credits of art classes are required beyond the Art Major requirements to fulfill this program.

Requirements for Art Majors

One of the following:

Note:

** Students completing Art Teacher Licensure Programs must take ART 0108 Introduction to Computer Graphics as their art elective.

Art majors are required to take ART 0106 and ART 0107, to satisfy the Appreciation of the Arts requirement of the common core.

Art majors must complete a minimum of 27 credits of course work within the Art Department at Westfield State. Students are advised to consult their advisors for information on course sequencing and general core requirements.

Art majors intending to pursue graduate work beyond their major are advised to take additionally recommended studio courses of their choice. It is also advisable to include more than the minimum requirements in Art History.

Fine Arts Concentration For Art Majors

Fine Arts Courses - 18 credits

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries

Passionate creators. Creative educators.

We are proud of the diverse group of professors who make up our Art Department. Our professors hold graduate degrees and are professional practitioners in their fields of study. You’ll learn from their unique perspectives as you develop your own point of view. The one-to-one support you’ll get from our faculty will help you increase your understanding of art, polish your technical skills and help you grow as a person.

Art professor working on a painting for an exhibit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

Is a portfolio required?

Yes, if you have requested admission to the art major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department's faculty.

Learn more

Are there scholarships available to art majors?

Several scholarships are available. Learn more on our available scholarships page.

How can I find the Art Department on social media?

You can follow us on several social media platforms below:

Portfolio Review:

If you've requested admission to the Art Major on your application form, applicants must successfully pass a portfolio review by the Art Department’s faculty.

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Art Degree (B.A.), Fine Arts