Pittsburg State University

What you'll study

The programme begins with foundation courses that build core visual skills—drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, colour theory and materials exploration—before moving into major-specific studios and advanced electives. Typical modules cover:

• Design Fundamentals: composition, visual communication, typography and colour systems.
• Digital Media and Production: image editing, vector illustration, layout software, basic web and interactive design tools.
• Studio Practices: ceramics, textiles/fibre, printmaking, sculpture or product prototyping depending on specialism.
• Materials and Methods: hands-on workshops in traditional and contemporary fabrication techniques, including woodworking, metalwork or textile processes as available.
• Context and Theory: design history, contemporary practice, visual culture and critiques to situate practical work.
• Professional Practice and Portfolio Development: internships, project planning, client briefs, business fundamentals and a final capstone or exhibition project.

Students progress from broad introductory studios into focused sequences in their chosen emphasis, complete collaborative and client-based projects, and assemble a professional portfolio and capstone exhibition or senior project that demonstrates applied skills and conceptual development.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a high-school diploma or equivalent. Admission to the programme may require a submitted portfolio of recent creative work that shows observational ability, design thinking and craft skills; portfolio guidance is typically provided by the department. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Other considerations for entry include a statement of purpose outlining creative interests, recommendation letters, and any relevant coursework or experience in art and design. Transfer students should provide transcripts and a sample portfolio; placement into advanced studios may be determined by review.

Career prospects

Graduates of Design and Applied Arts are prepared for a range of creative and applied roles in public, private and freelance contexts. Typical career paths include:

• Graphic and visual communication designer for print and digital media
• User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) roles in web and app design
• Product, industrial or furniture design and prototyping
• Textile and surface designer, fashion- or homewares-related roles
• Studio artist, maker, ceramicist or craftsperson selling work commercially or through galleries
• Art director, exhibition designer or creative producer in cultural organisations
• Education and community arts roles, or entrepreneurship running design-led small businesses

The programme emphasises portfolio development and professional placements, helping graduates to move directly into entry-level design positions, internships or postgraduate study in specialised areas.

Why study at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State offers a studio-centred environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, allowing students to get substantial hands-on practice and individual feedback. The university's art and design facilities include dedicated studios, fabrication workshops and exhibition spaces that support both traditional craft and digital production.

The department maintains connections with regional design employers, galleries and cultural organisations to support internships and community-engaged projects. Students benefit from opportunities to exhibit work, participate in juried shows, and collaborate across disciplines, as well as academic advising and career services geared to creative professions.