Bachelor of Arts in Art
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Art is an undergraduate, liberal arts degree offering a balanced curriculum of academic coursework, studio art and art history courses. You can choose between emphasis areas in Studio Art (Ceramics, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture), Art History and Digital Art & Design Media. Students also select a minor or double major, which allows you to tailor your studies to career interests and take advantage of Clemson’s unique strengths as a large research university.
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The goals and objectives of the Bachelor of Arts in Art is to provide students with a breadth of knowledge and training in Art and Design that is fundamental to a variety of careers in the visual arts. The foundation courses are designed to provide the student a firm grounding in the theoretical and practical principles of Art and Design. Lower-division Art History requirements cover the major achievements in art and included explorations in art in both Western and Non-western cultures. At the upper-division level art studio students are trained in and expected to master either single or multiple art media and the aesthetic and technological developments applicable to their area(s). Classes are taught by faculty with appropriate training and professional experience in their area(s) specialization. In both upper-division Studio Art and Art History courses, students are exposed to a broad array of artistic accomplishments and encouraged to hone their connections between concept and media in the pursuit of individual, creative development. Upon graduation students should have developed a competent portfolio or artworks and display the knowledge and skill to enter their chosen fields.
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What is the difference between B.A. in Art and BFA in Art?
The B.A. distinguishes itself from the BFA by the nature of its interdisciplinary practice, representing our broad range of art and art history offerings and expertise. The B.A. is based on a core value of combining ideas, techniques and creative problem-solving. This program, first offered in the 2020-21 academic year, allows Clemson students to create a unique educational experience in combination with outside minors and second majors.
The BFA, by comparison, is a deep and focused professional study of visual arts and art history that prepares students for graduate study or a career in studio art.
Both degree programs are accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
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What you'll study
First-year B.A. students participate in a four-studio foundations program, which introduces them to 2D, 3D and 4D studio practices. Students explore traditional and new media, and create a strong foundation of design understanding. Sophomore students select studio courses in four disciplines, which exposes them to a broad range of practice. In their junior year, students continue with two intermediate-level studios to narrow their focus and hone skills learned in the first two years. In their senior year, students select a course in an advanced-level emphasis area and refine their personal art projects and concepts. Students also pursue a professional preparation course selected from art and art history internships, professional practice seminars, or one of the department's signature Creative Inquiry projects.
See the B.A. check off sheet.
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Beyond the classroom
Whether students plan to embark on careers in making, teaching or managing art, Clemson offers numerous opportunities to explore different abilities and show creativity.
Study Abroad
During a five-week summer school study abroad program in Italy, students draw and journal their way through the country. See sites in Rome, Orvieto, Florence and Venice. Visit historically significant artworks and take classes in Italian and Etruscan ceramics.
Lee Gallery and Acorn Gallery
Providing access to regional, national and international artists, Clemson's art galleries hold a variety of exhibitions and special events during the year. In addition, students have a chance to showcase work in the galleries.
Clemson Visual Arts
The CVA is a place where students, visitors and scholars explore contemporary perspectives in art and culture through research and studio practice. Its mission is to engage and render visible the creative process.
The Fine Arts Student Association
FASA is a student-run organization that strives to increase awareness and appreciation of art on campus. Past events include parties, trips, fundraising events and art sales. FASA organizes field trips and at least one annual trip to a major urban art center such as New York City.
Field Trips
Every senior takes a field trip to New York City lead by the senior seminar professor. The class views art encompassing media and time periods from artists who are known all over the world. Traveling to New York City is part of the undergraduate curriculum and prepares the students for entry into the professional art world. The New York City trip reflects Clemson’s goal to create experiential learning opportunities for students. The student undergraduate curriculum is further enhanced by informal professional activities with faculty; field trips to art centers in Charlotte, Columbia, Atlanta and Washington, D.C.; interaction with visiting artists; and opportunities to participate in local and regional exhibitions.
“Receiving a B.A. in Visual Arts and Psychology created a pathway to apply to Art Therapy Programs for Graduate School confidently. Having a double major allowed me to be a competitive candidate. As a result, I was accepted into my first choice for my graduate studies.”
Jiawei Deng'21 B.A. ArtDepartment of Art
Valerie Zimany
Chair, Department of Art
Office: 2-120 Lee Hall, Email: vzimany@clemson.edu
About Valerie Zimany