The program forms a comprehensive study of the art of photography including its processes and technology, history, criticism, contemporary practices, and the expressive potential of its unique visual language. Students are supported in their work by the facilities and studio space of School of Art. Housed in the main art building, the Photography area occupies over 7,000 square feet and spans two floors. Learn more about the facilities and the studio spaces at the School of Art. 

Students are encouraged to take full advantage of the many opportunities within the field by actively applying for exhibitions and attending related conferences and workshops. The program is an active facilitator and supporter of conference attendance (e.g. Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG) conferences, YUMA symposium, Memphis Metals Museum Repair Days, Mint Museum, East Carolina University Metals Symposium, SOFA Chicago), field trips (e.g.

Accreditation

The interior design program leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts, Interior Design, in the Lamar Dodd School of Art, is accredited by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation, www.accredit-id.org, 206 Grandville Avenue, Suite 350, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503.  

Since 2012, the Ceramics program has been housed in its own 15,000-square-foot building that contains kilns and studios for students and faculty. Kilns include two atmospheric kilns, six downdraft gas kilns, and one 90-cubic-foot car kiln. There is also a clay making room, a glaze room, and a computer lab. Learn more about the studio spaces at the Lamar Dodd School of Art here.

The archival aspect of the field positions graduates of the program as responsible and serious candidates for museum or gallery employment. Printmaking majors may enter the areas of private and non-profit print workshops, or attend graduate school where a Master of Fine Art (MFA) degree, required for teaching at the college level, may be earned. At the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) level, certification is required to teach elementary and high school art.

A degree in Fabric Design prepares one for several career possibilities. Designing fabric for industry could involve designing woven, printed, and knitted fabrics, as well as carpet and rug design. Many graduates from the School of Art hold responsible positions with a variety of textile firms. With an additional degree in Art Education or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree, there are possibilities for teaching fabric design. Outstanding craftsmen might establish their own studios, receive commissions from interior designers, or sell work through galleries and craft shops.

The Graphic Design program aims to prepare students for creative lives and professions related to visual communication design through broad coursework that develops abilities in design fundamentals, collaboration, builds an understanding of audiences, and encourages experimentation across media. The program supports an interdisciplinary approach to design and benefits from the wider offerings within the School of Art and the greater University.

A primary goal for most students is developing their careers as exhibiting visual artists. Creating associations with professional and college galleries is encouraged and supported at all levels. In addition, graduates of the Drawing and Painting program find opportunities in arts-related businesses such as publishing, arts administration, gallery operations, and teaching.

Degrees and Programs Offered

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art Education

At both the undergraduate and graduate level, alumni of the program routinely secure jobs in museums, galleries, and auction houses, and have gone on to attend some of the finest graduate programs in the country, including Columbia University, New York University, The University of Virginia, The University of Michigan, The University of Pennsylvania, and The University of Texas at Austin. Learn more about the careers of select alumni.