Tennessee Technological University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundation art and design courses with specialised applied arts studios and professional practice. You will take core modules that develop drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, colour theory and material exploration alongside courses in digital imaging and vector-based design, typography and layout.

• Foundation Studio Practices – observational drawing, basic 2D/3D design and visual thinking.
• Material and Process Courses – ceramics, metals/jewellery, printmaking or textiles/surface design (students select concentrations based on interest).
• Digital and Contemporary Media – image editing, vector graphics, web basics, introductory user-experience concepts and rapid prototyping with digital fabrication tools.
• Design Principles and Visual Communication – typography, layout, branding and information design applied to real-world briefs.
• Studio Electives and Cross-Discipline Projects – mixed-media studios, collaborative projects with other departments, and elective workshops to broaden skillsets.
• Professional Practices and Portfolio Development – career preparation, exhibition planning, freelance/business basics and a capstone senior project or portfolio review.
• General Education – humanities, social science and technical courses that contextualise design in broader cultural and professional settings.

Instruction combines studio critique, hands-on workshops, lectures and lab sessions. Students typically progress from foundation coursework in the first year to increasingly independent, self-directed projects in later years, culminating in a public exhibition or professional portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions consider academic record alongside a creative portfolio that demonstrates basic drawing ability, visual thinking and consistency of work. Portfolios may include sketches, finished pieces, photography of three-dimensional work, and digital examples.

• Recommended preparation: coursework in art, design, or related studio subjects in secondary school, and prior experience with digital image tools is advantageous.
• English language: international applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements.
• Transfers: applicants with college-level credits can be considered for transfer; specific credit awards depend on course equivalency and studio portfolio review.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a practical skillset and a professional portfolio suitable for a wide range of creative careers. Typical roles include:

• Graphic designer or artworker in studios and agencies
• User experience (UX) and interface design roles in digital teams
• Product, textile or surface designer for manufacturing and craft industries
• Studio artist, maker or artisan producing and selling work independently
• Production designer, visual merchandiser or exhibit designer for cultural institutions
• Design educator, technician or workshop leader in community and educational settings
• Freelance creative practitioner or consultant, supported by professional-practice training

Many students also pursue postgraduate study in specialised design fields or arts administration, or combine their studio background with business or technology studies for interdisciplinary careers.

Why study at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech offers a programme emphasising hands-on learning and applied outcomes, taught by faculty with professional practice and academic experience. The university supports studio-based teaching with dedicated classroom and workshop spaces, access to digital labs and opportunities to work across material and digital media.

• Small-group instruction that allows sustained critique and mentorship from faculty.
• Regional engagement and internship pathways that connect students with local design firms, galleries and manufacturing partners.
• Emphasis on employability through portfolio development, exhibitions and professional-practice coursework.

The programme is suited to students who want a balance of traditional craft and contemporary design skills, delivered in a supportive campus environment with a clear focus on preparing graduates for applied creative careers.