Dominican University of California

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree balances hands-on studio and performance courses with art history, theory and professional practice. Early study develops core skills across drawing, fundamentals of design, basic acting and voice/musical fundamentals, and digital media. In upper-division work you choose more focused pathways—such as studio art (painting, sculpture, photography, digital art), theatre (acting, directing, stagecraft, play analysis), or music (performance, composition, ensemble work)—while continuing coursework in visual and performance analysis, contemporary practice, and critical methods.

• Foundation modules: drawing, colour, composition, introductory performance techniques, and digital imaging.
• Studio and performance electives: painting, sculpture, printmaking, sculpture, photography, video, sound art, acting, movement, voice, ensembles, directing and stagecraft.
• Theory and history: art history, theatre history, music appreciation, aesthetics and cultural studies.
• Professional practice: exhibition design, portfolio development, audition preparation, arts management, grant-writing and community-engaged practice.
• Capstone experience: senior recital, production credit or public exhibition/portfolio culminating a sustained project supervised by faculty.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong high-school record or equivalent. Admission typically requires a completed application with transcripts and a personal statement that demonstrates interest in the visual or performing arts. For studio or performance specialisms applicants are normally asked to submit a portfolio or attend an audition/interview so faculty can assess preparation and fit. Letters of recommendation that speak to artistic potential and work ethic are encouraged. Transfer applicants are considered based on college transcripts and a review of prior coursework or work samples.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers in the creative sector and beyond. Typical paths include working as practicing visual artists, performing artists, teachers and arts educators, arts administrators, producers or curators. Alumni also find roles in design studios, community arts organisations, theatre companies, galleries and museums, film and media production, and creative industries such as advertising or digital content. The degree also provides solid preparation for postgraduate study in fine art, theatre, music, arts administration or education.

Why study at Dominican University of California

Dominican offers a small-campus environment with personalised attention and a liberal-arts approach that encourages cross-disciplinary exploration. Students benefit from hands-on studios and rehearsal spaces, close mentorship from practising artist-faculty, and opportunities to present work in campus galleries and performance venues. The university’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area provides access to a vibrant regional arts ecosystem for internships, collaborations and professional connections. Community-engaged courses and emphasis on professional practice equip students to exhibit, perform and work effectively in real-world arts settings.