University of Southern Indiana

What you'll study

The programme balances sustained studio practice with contextual and professional studies. Core studio courses typically include drawing and observational studies, painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking and digital media, with options to pursue focused elective strands. Coursework emphasises material competence, visual experimentation and concept development through sequential studio courses and critiques.

Students also study art history and visual culture to situate their practice within broader historical and contemporary conversations. Professional practice modules cover portfolio development, exhibition planning, arts marketing and career strategies. The degree culminates in a senior project or capstone exhibition where students present a cohesive body of work and an artist statement.

• Foundational drawing and 2D/3D design
• Painting and mixed media
• Sculpture and three-dimensional processes
• Ceramics and kiln-based practices
• Printmaking techniques and digital print processes
• Digital imaging, photography and time-based media
• Art history and critical theory
• Professional development: portfolio, exhibition practice, internships

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an appropriate secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions generally consider academic transcripts alongside a portfolio of recent artwork that demonstrates technical ability, creative potential and a developing personal voice. A written statement describing interests and goals is commonly required.

Additional elements may include a recommendation from a teacher or mentor and an interview or review with faculty for some applicants. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements; specific test scores or alternatives are set by the university and should be checked on the institution's admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Fine and Studio Arts programme move into a wide range of creative and cultural careers. Many continue as practising artists, exhibiting and selling work, while others find roles in galleries, museums, arts organisations and education. The skills developed—visual problem-solving, studio techniques, project management and professional presentation—are also valued in design, illustration, photography and digital media roles.

• Studio artist / exhibiting practitioner
• Gallery technician, curator’s assistant or museum educator
• Arts administrator and programme coordinator
• Secondary art teacher (may require additional certification)
• Illustrator, printmaker or commercial artist
• Set and exhibition designer, prop maker
• Freelance creative professional: commissions, public art, residencies

Why study at University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers a personalised undergraduate environment with small classes and direct faculty mentorship from practising artists and scholars. Students benefit from dedicated studio spaces and access to a range of technical resources—traditional and digital—supporting both hands-on craft and contemporary media.

The university's location in the Evansville region provides connections with local galleries, museums and community arts organisations, creating opportunities for internships, public projects and regional exhibitions. Students are encouraged to present work in departmental galleries, participate in juried shows and build a professional portfolio before graduation.

Practical support includes academic advising, career services and structured opportunities to develop exhibition experience and professional networks that help bridge study and employment or further study.