Southeastern Louisiana University

What you'll study

The programme combines concentrated studio work with liberal-arts breadth. Early study emphasises foundational skills such as drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, colour theory and visual perception. As you progress you choose concentrations from areas such as painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photography/digital media and time-based media.

• Foundation studio courses in drawing and design
• Area-specific studios: painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, photography/digital media
• Art history and visual culture from ancient to contemporary practice
• Digital imaging and new media techniques
• Professional practices: portfolio development, exhibition design, grant writing and arts marketing
• Capstone project and senior exhibition or thesis to synthesise practical and research skills
• General education courses to support critical thinking and written communication

Studio time and critique are central to the experience; students work in dedicated on-campus studios and present work in faculty-supervised critiques and public exhibitions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet the university's standard admission criteria. Prospective students are required to submit a portfolio of recent work for review; the portfolio demonstrates technical skill, creative range and potential for development. Transfer students must submit college transcripts and a portfolio. Some applicants may be invited to an interview or an on-campus portfolio review.

International applicants must meet university English-language requirements and provide certified academic records. There are additional processes for students seeking financial aid or scholarships, and applicants should consult the university admissions office for guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of creative and cultural careers or continue to postgraduate study. Typical career paths include:

• Professional artist (studio practice, commissions, exhibitions)
• Gallery or museum technician, curator or exhibitions assistant
• Art teacher or community arts educator (additional certification may be required for K–12 teaching)
• Illustrator, visual designer or art director in advertising, publishing or digital media
• Arts administration, arts marketing and cultural project management
• Further study at the master's level in fine art, arts management or related fields

Why study at Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern provides a supportive, small-scale studio environment where faculty offer close mentorship to undergraduate artists. Students benefit from dedicated studio facilities, specialised labs for ceramics, printmaking and digital media, and opportunities to exhibit work in campus galleries. The department maintains connections with regional arts organisations and community partners in Hammond and the nearby New Orleans cultural scene, giving students access to exhibition, internship and collaborative project opportunities.

The programme emphasises both practical making and professional readiness, preparing graduates to sustain creative careers or to pursue advanced study.