Stanford University

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Art Practice at Stanford University cultivates students as contemporary visual artists, emphasizing studio production, critical theory, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Throughout the program, you will develop a diverse portfolio across various media while exploring the connections between art, culture, technology, and research.

What you'll study

The curriculum for the BA Art Practice integrates studio production with art history and theory. Although course offerings may change, students generally complete a combination of foundational courses, media-focused studio classes, and academic electives.

Studio and media practice (examples)

• Drawing I
• Painting I
• Sculpture I
• Photography
• Video Art
• Sound Art I
• Animation
• Interactive Art (e.g., making with Arduino)
• Drawing with Code
• Data as Material
• Virtual Reality: the possibility and peril of immersive artwork
• Monotype
• Lithography
• The Hybrid Print
• Art Book Object
• Social Sculpture

Art history, theory, and critical foundations (examples)

• How to Look at Art and Why: An Introduction to the History of Western Painting
• Greek Art: The Archaic Period
• The Italian Renaissance, or the Art of Success
• Queer America
• Theme and Style in Japanese Art
• Asian American Art: 1850–Present
• African American Art

Capstone / culminating work

As part of the program, students complete a culminating body of work, which may include portfolio presentations and final critiques, reflecting their studio requirements and assessments. The specific format will vary based on each student’s degree plan and course sequence.

Entry requirements

Stanford University employs a holistic review process for admissions, meaning there is no single minimum GPA or test score required. Applications are evaluated based on academic preparation as well as other components of the application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA Art Practice program can pursue a variety of career paths in the arts sector, including roles as independent artists, curators, art educators, and art administrators. The interdisciplinary skills acquired throughout the program also prepare students for opportunities in related fields such as design, media, and cultural institutions.