SVSU’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program prepares students to become professional visual artists and provides a strong foundation for graduate study. Unlike a Bachelor of Arts (BA), which typically includes a minor and broader general studies, the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a professional degree focused more intensively on studio art and does not require a minor. After admission to the program, students declare one concentration: ceramics, drawing and painting, graphic design, photography, printmaking, or sculpture.
Fine Arts (BFA)
Fine Arts (BFA)
About
The Fine Arts program at SVSU fosters creativity, innovation, and critical thinking in a diverse and inclusive studio environment. We provide a comprehensive education grounded in rigorous studio practice and art history, enriched by critiques, exhibitions, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Our curriculum prepares students for professional success as practicing artists, educators, and creative leaders. Through active engagement with the Great Lakes Bay Region and the state of Michigan, we inspire positive change and contribute to the cultural vitality of our campus and surrounding communities.
Cardinal Points
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There are multiple art-specific scholarships available for students.
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Students have opportunities to study abroad in locations such as Italy or Japan.
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Visiting artist lecture and exhibition series for students to engage with acclaimed artists and their work.
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Internships, fieldwork and co-ops are available for students to gain real-world experience.
Highlighted Courses
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Key Electives
Click here to see a listing of programs
Programs
Majors
Other
Complementary Minors/Majors
Beyond The Books
Active Student Organizations
Students dive into extracurricular activities such as the Art and Design Creative League, American Institute of Graphic Arts Design Club, Cardinal Photography Students Association, Student Art League and the Comic Strippers Club.
Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibitions
These exhibitions are a show of the works of SVSU Bachelor of Fine Arts students. This serves as a completion of their undergraduate program: painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, ceramics, computer illustration and graphic design are included.
Exceptional Campus Resources
Briefly list any labs, equipment, space, facilities that are a student-learning advantage and are worth mentioning to students considering coming here and wondering what they may work with.
Our Students After Graduation...
Employers
Studio 23
Chippewa Nature Center
GLBR Arts & Cultural Network
Graduate Programs
American University; Washington D.C
Ohio University
University of Idaho
Career Opportunities
Educational coordinator
Gallery preparator
Executive director of non-profit
After Graduation
- $56,260 is the median yearly pay for Craft and Fine Artists in the U.S. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- A bachelor’s degree is valuable for entry-level positions, but an advanced degree is usually necessary to attain competitive, upper-level positions.