Florida International University

What you'll study

This multidisciplinary bachelor's brings together core studio and performance training with general-education requirements. Typical study begins with foundational courses—drawing, 2D/3D design, basic movement and voice work, music theory and introduction to performance practice—then progresses to intermediate and advanced studios in a chosen pathway (visual art, theatre, music or dance).

• Foundations: drawing, design, colour, music fundamentals, movement and acting basics.
• Specialist studios and performance: painting, sculpture, photography, new media, acting techniques, scene study, orchestral/ensemble performance, dance technique and choreography.
• Technical and production: stagecraft, lighting and sound design, costume and set design, digital media production.
• Theory and contextual studies: art history, theatre history, music history, aesthetics, contemporary practice and criticism.
• Professional practice: arts management, portfolio and audition preparation, internship/practicum, entrepreneurship for artists.
• Capstone: senior project, exhibition or public performance demonstrating an integrated body of work.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary-school completion credential recognised by FIU. Admission to the university follows standard undergraduate requirements; students seeking a specialised pathway in visual or performing arts normally must also pass department-specific requirements.

• Academic: secondary-school diploma or equivalent; completion of recommended preparatory coursework in arts, English and maths is helpful.
• Portfolio or audition: visual-arts applicants submit a portfolio of recent work; performing-arts applicants typically attend an audition or submit a recorded audition demonstrating technique and repertoire.
• Supporting materials: personal statement, letters of recommendation and an arts resume/CV are often requested or recommended.
• Additional considerations: prior conservatory training, community arts involvement or professional experience can strengthen an application. Standardised tests may be optional depending on current FIU admissions policy—check with the admissions office for details.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across creative industries, public arts organisations and education. The degree prepares students for practical roles that require creative skill, collaboration and project management.

• Professional artist, visual-arts maker or exhibiting practitioner
• Actor, dancer, musician, ensemble performer or choreographer
• Stage manager, lighting/sound technician, set or costume designer
• Curator, gallery or museum assistant, exhibition coordinator
• Arts administrator, producer, community arts organiser or presenter
• Secondary or further education teaching (with additional certification where required)
• Entrepreneurship in creative industries, including freelance practice, arts entrepreneurship and cultural project management
• Pathway to graduate study (MFA, MA, MM, or arts-related professional degrees)

Why study at Florida International University

FIU's College of Communication, Architecture + The Arts provides an urban, research-active context with access to a culturally rich metropolitan region. Students benefit from hands-on facilities, performance venues and exhibition spaces and from faculty who are active practitioners in the visual and performing arts.

• Location: situated in a diverse, internationally engaged city with abundant galleries, theatres, festivals and arts organisations for internships and collaborations.
• Facilities and ensembles: studios, digital labs, rehearsal halls, theatres and ensembles give regular opportunities to exhibit and perform.
• Professional connections: partnerships with local arts institutions, community arts programmes and commercial arts organisations support real-world experience.
• Interdisciplinary approach: flexible curricula allow students to combine visual and performing arts training with studies in media, design, arts management or education.