This Bachelor of Arts program in Art with an emphasis in Studio Art at the Department of Art and Art History is designed to develop students' technical skills, conceptual understanding, and critical confidence in visual arts. It encourages exploration of the problems and processes within art, fostering an environment for personal development and social awareness. The program emphasizes a broad engagement with art history, education, and studio practice, providing multiple entry points into the arts and preparing students for diverse careers or continued graduate study. Facilities like the Todd Madigan Gallery, the Media Arts Center Gallery, and various visiting artist programs offer students unique opportunities for creative discourse, exhibitions, and professional growth.
Why this course is highly recommended
This program provides a comprehensive foundation in visual arts, combining technical training with critical thinking and conceptual engagement. The opportunities to participate in visiting artist programs, exhibitions, and community projects enrich the educational experience. The close connection to professional art venues like the Todd Madigan Gallery and the Media Arts Center Gallery ensures students gain practical insights and exposure to the art world, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to pursue careers as artists, educators, art historians, or museum professionals.
The emphasis in this program is on Studio Art, allowing students to focus on areas such as painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, time-based art, animation, and community art projects. They will also explore theoretical and practical aspects of visual arts through advanced studio topics and professional practices, with options to tailor their learning through elective courses.
Application fees
15.93L
1st year tuition fees
15.93L
Living cost
Students must complete a total of 105-135 units, including general education, foundation courses, major coursework, and additional units for graduation. The program includes foundational courses in painting, drawing, design, printmaking, sculpture, and time-based art, along with upper-division specialized courses such as modern and contemporary art, and advanced studio topics. Capstone projects like the senior exhibition or thesis are also part of the curriculum, alongside participation in galleries and community projects.

English language test
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and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the California State University, Bakersfield admission page
for complete details.
Graduates with a BA in Art focused on Studio Art can pursue roles such as professional artist, art historian, researcher, art educator, curator, gallerist, or museum professional. The program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are valuable in many fields, and the exposure to galleries, visiting artist programs, and community projects helps prepare students for diverse career paths within and outside the art industry.