Tiffin University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary programme blends visual art and performing arts coursework to build core creative skills, technical knowledge and professional practices. Students follow a curriculum of core foundations, concentration-specific modules and practical experiences leading to a senior capstone or portfolio.

• Core foundations: drawing and design fundamentals, art history and theatre history, foundations of performance, musicianship and digital media literacy.
• Visual arts modules: painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital imaging and mixed-media practices; portfolio development and exhibition preparation.
• Performing arts modules: acting, voice and movement, ensemble performance, stagecraft, directing basics and music performance classes or ensembles.
• Production and technical training: set and costume design, lighting and sound technology, stage management and production practicum.
• Professional practice: arts administration, fundraising and grant-writing basics, marketing for artists, freelancing and entrepreneurship for creative professionals.
• Practical components: regular studio time, rehearsals, juried exhibitions, public performances, theatre productions and collaborative projects with peers and faculty.
• Capstone: a final-year senior project, which may be a curated exhibition, a staged production, a major recital or a combined research-creative portfolio demonstrating professional readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school completion credential (for example a high school diploma or international equivalent) and submit academic transcripts. Admission typically requires a creative portfolio or audition showcasing recent work or performance, and a personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals.

• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors are commonly requested.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional alternatives.
• Transfer applicants may be asked for college transcripts and a portfolio; transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis.
• Non-traditional applicants with relevant experience are encouraged to apply and may be assessed through interview and portfolio review.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of creative and cultural roles. The programme emphasises practical skills and professional readiness to support multiple career pathways in the arts sector.

• Visual artist, exhibiting fine artist or commercial artist
• Actor, musician, dancer or ensemble performer
• Stage manager, production technician, lighting or sound designer
• Set, costume or scenic designer
• Arts administrator, gallery or museum assistant, community arts coordinator
• Creative entrepreneur, arts marketing or arts education roles (with additional certification where required for K–12 teaching)
• Further study at graduate level in fine arts, theatre, performance studies, arts management or related fields

Why study at Tiffin University

Tiffin University offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship from practising artists and theatre professionals. The programme’s strong emphasis on experiential learning gives students frequent chances to mount productions and exhibitions, build professional portfolios and complete internships with regional arts organisations.

• Hands-on studios, rehearsal spaces and production workshops that support both visual and performing arts practice.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and community-engaged projects.
• Career-focused preparation including portfolio juries, audition coaching, internship placement support and entrepreneurship training for creative careers.
• Support services for academic advising, transfer credit evaluation and international students to help you plan a clear pathway through the degree.