John Hopkins University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises sustained studio practice, art-historical awareness and conceptual development. Early coursework typically covers foundations in drawing, two-dimensional design, three-dimensional form, colour theory and basic digital media. As you progress, you choose from studio concentrations such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, digital/new media and interdisciplinary practices.

• Foundation studios: observational drawing, 2D/3D design, material and process exploration.
• Advanced studios: focused classes in chosen media, technical workshops, mixed-media approaches.
• Critical studies: art history, visual culture, contemporary theory and critique seminars to situate practice within broader contexts.
• Capstone/Thesis: a sustained final project or exhibition accompanied by an artist statement and critical reflection.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: courses in film, digital humanities, museum studies, conservation science, or courses in other departments to foster interdisciplinary projects.
• Experiential learning: opportunities for gallery exhibition, group critiques, internships with museums and arts organisations, and collaborative projects with faculty and peers.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary-school qualification equivalent to high school completion and to demonstrate strong academic preparation. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Johns Hopkins also values evidence of creative commitment and critical thinking.

• Portfolio: Most applicants to the studio arts major submit a portfolio of recent work demonstrating technical skill, concept development and range; guidelines are provided by the department.
• Academic record: competitive grades across a broad curriculum; preparation in arts, humanities and sciences is beneficial given the university’s liberal arts framework.
• Standardised tests: policies on standardised testing may vary; consult the admissions office for current guidance.
• Interviews or additional materials: some applicants may be invited to discuss their work or provide supplementary documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical studio skills, critical analysis and a portfolio suitable for a range of creative careers or further study. Many pursue careers directly in the visual arts, while others move into related cultural and commercial fields.

• Professional artist, exhibiting work in galleries, alternative spaces and public projects.
• Curatorial and gallery work, museum education and collections support (additional specialised training often required for conservation roles).
• Art education at the K–12 or community level (teacher certification programs may be required).
• Design roles in advertising, graphic design, user experience and media production.
• Arts administration, cultural policy, fundraising and programme management in non-profit and public arts organisations.
• Further study at graduate level (MFA, MA in art history, museum studies, conservation, or related fields).

Why study at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins combines a studio-based arts education with the resources and research strengths of a major research university. Students benefit from small seminar and studio class sizes, faculty who are practicing artists and scholars, and interdisciplinary collaboration across departments.

• Access to Baltimore’s rich cultural institutions and a dynamic local arts scene for internships, exhibition and community engagement.
• Opportunities to work with campus facilities, digital labs and technical shops that support traditional and new-media practice.
• Strong support for undergraduate research and cross-disciplinary projects, enabling students to pair studio work with research in humanities, sciences or technology.
• Exhibition opportunities, visiting artists, critiques and public programming that connect students to regional and national art networks.