Indiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundation studio courses with specialised advanced studios and contextual art studies. Early modules typically cover drawing, two‑dimensional and three‑dimensional design, colour theory and basic digital media, giving a strong technical and conceptual grounding. As you progress you choose studios and electives in areas such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, ceramics, fibre/textiles, time‑based media and digital/new media.

Complementary coursework includes art history and theory, contemporary art practices, and professional practices (portfolio development, exhibition planning and arts entrepreneurship). The degree culminates in a senior project or exhibition and an accompanying critical statement that demonstrates technical competence, conceptual development and readiness for professional practice or further study.

• Foundation Studios: drawing, 2D/3D design, colour and materials
• Advanced Studios: painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, ceramics, digital media
• Contextual Studies: art history, theory, visual culture
• Professional Preparation: portfolio, exhibition practicum, arts management
• Capstone: senior thesis project and public exhibition

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a secondary school diploma (or recognised equivalent) with a programme of study satisfying university admission. In addition to the university's general admissions criteria, applicants to the fine and studio arts programme are usually required to submit a portfolio of creative work for review. The portfolio demonstrates your technical abilities, creative ideas and range of media; typical portfolios include a curated selection of 8–20 images, a written artist statement and any relevant process documentation.

Other common requirements include a personal statement outlining your artistic interests and goals, and one or two academic or arts references. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements set by the university. Specific portfolio guidelines and any supplemental audition or interview information are provided by the School of Art at the time of application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of creative careers. Many continue as practising studio artists, exhibiting work in galleries and cultural venues or working in artist collectives. Other common pathways include roles in galleries and museums (curatorial assistant, collections technician), arts education (teaching at community organisations or pursuing teacher certification), and visual communication fields (graphic design, illustration, UX/UI, set and production design).

Alumni also work in art conservation, arts administration, public art and cultural policy, or move into further study at the master’s level to specialise in fine art practice, art history, design or arts management. The programme emphasises portfolio development and professional practice to help graduates transition into freelance work, commissions, residencies and employment within the creative industries.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers dedicated studio facilities, darkrooms, kilns, digital fabrication and media labs, and access to on‑campus exhibition spaces and collection galleries, providing a supportive environment for experimentation and production. The campus hosts visiting artists, juried shows and a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration across arts, design and humanities departments.

Students benefit from ties to regional and national arts networks, internship opportunities with museums and cultural organisations, and resources such as career services and alumni mentoring. The university’s art collections and museums on campus provide direct study resources and inspiration, while study‑abroad and exchange options expand exposure to international contemporary art scenes.