Program Overview
The Bellarmine University BA in Art equips students with a foundation in art history, theory, and studio practice, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Through a blend of rigorous coursework, mentorship, and state-of-the-art facilities, the program prepares students for careers in the creative economy or graduate studies in the visual arts. Graduates are well-equipped for roles such as fine artists, art educators, graphic designers, and museum curators.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Bellarmine Art Department equips students with aesthetic training, technical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving strategies for a career in the creative economy or graduate studies in the visual arts. Blending a supportive environment, rigorous exploration of craft and technology, and mentorship from professional artists, the program guides students through expressing their creative goals and forging their artistic identity.
Objectives:
- Provide a foundation in art history, theory, and studio practice
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Foster creativity and innovation
- Prepare students for careers in the arts or for further study
Program Description:
- The BA in Art is a 120-credit hour program typically completed in four years of full-time study.
- Students take courses in art history, studio art, and electives in their chosen area of emphasis.
- The program culminates in a senior capstone project.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Art History: Courses cover a broad range of periods and styles from ancient to contemporary art.
- Studio Art: Students explore a variety of media, including drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
- Electives: Students choose electives in their chosen area of emphasis:
- Painting
- Photography
- Digital Art
Program Structure:
- The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in art history and theory while allowing them to develop their own individual style.
- Courses are typically offered in a semester format, with some intensive summer courses available.
- Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including painting, drawing, and ceramics studios, a photography darkroom, and two Mac labs.
Course Schedule:
A sample course schedule for the BA in Art is available on the Bellarmine University website.
Module Descriptions:
A detailed description of each module is available on the Bellarmine University website.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the course, but may include:
- Studio critiques
- Exhibitions
- Written assignments
- Presentations Assessment criteria are designed to evaluate students' progress in:
- Technical skills
- Conceptual understanding
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
Teaching:
- The program is taught by a team of professional artists with diverse backgrounds and expertise.
- Faculty members are committed to providing students with individualized attention and mentorship.
- The program emphasizes a hands-on, experiential approach to learning.
- Small class sizes and individual attention are a hallmark of the program.
Teaching Methods:
- Lecture
- Demonstration
- Critique
- Individualized instruction
Careers:
Graduates of the BA in Art program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:
- Fine artist
- Art educator
- Graphic designer
- Web designer
- Museum curator
- Gallery director The program also prepares students for graduate study in art history, studio art, or related fields.
Other:
- The Bellarmine Art Department hosts a variety of exhibitions, lectures, and events throughout the year.
- Students have the opportunity to participate in internships and study abroad programs.
- The department has a strong alumni network that provides support and mentorship to current students.
