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​Studio Arts (B.S.)

The studio arts B.S. degree is for students who wish to pursue an intensive studio art experience alongside another field(s) of academic study in preparation for a career as a professional artist or entrepreneur. 

Ceramic pots and bowls wait to be fired in the kiln

Fifty percent of your coursework takes place in the studio arts major, and the remaining credits may be used for academics from across the University; popular subject areas include psychology, history, politics, and business.


About VPA

Home to the visual and performing arts at Syracuse, VPA supports the creative process and professional development. The College is divided into seven areas: the School of Art; the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies; the School of Design; the Department of Drama; the Rose, Jules R. and Stanford S. Setnor School of Music; the Department of Film and Media Arts; and the Department of Creative Arts Therapy.

Courses

Core coursework covers studio art, art history, and theory. Sample courses include:

  • Ceramics Hand-Building
  • Drawing Through the Figure
  • Introduction to Print Media & Graphic Art
  • Functional Sculpture
  • Narrative Jewelry and Metalwork
  • Objective Painting

View official major requirements .

Practical Experience

Both studio arts majors offer experiential learning opportunities for students in addition to the coursework. 

  • Participate in an Art in New York City MAYmester course.
  • Showcase your work at exhibitions and competitions.
  • Learn from alumni and professionals during the visiting artist lecture series.
  • Join a student-run art organization or club and participate in events, field trips, and demonstrations.
  • Explore the galleries and exhibition spaces of the college and University, including the Syracuse University Art Museum , 914Works and Light Work .
  • Attend the University Lectures and Syracuse Symposium events.

Study Abroad

Strengthen your resume and broaden your perspective with a study abroad experience during your time at Syracuse. Consistently ranked among the top 25 international education providers in the U.S., Syracuse Abroad offers more than 100 programs in 60 countries. 

Studio arts majors most often go abroad to Syracuse University centers in Florence, London, and Strasbourg.

Summer programs of interest may include Portfolio Moscow, The Constructed Photograph (Florence), Metalsmithing (Florence), and Arts of Spain: Paintings, Architectures, Cities (Madrid).

Life After Syracuse University

With a degree in studio arts, pursue such careers as:

  • Artist
  • Entrepreneur
  • Gallery Director
  • Educator
  • Studio Owner/Manager
  • Curator
  • Critic

Or, continue your education and earn a graduate degree in areas such as art leadership, business, or art education. Recent graduates have attended many of the top graduate schools in the U.S.