Kansas Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The programme blends practical studio and performance courses with academic study in art history and theory. Core work typically covers foundational visual arts techniques (drawing, design, painting, sculpture), digital media and graphic design, as well as performance disciplines such as voice, instrumental study, acting, movement and stagecraft. Students take survey modules in art history and music/theatre appreciation, skills courses in portfolio development and audition preparation, and classes in production elements like lighting, sound and set design.

Study is project‑based and often culminates in a senior capstone such as a public exhibition, recital or staged production. Smaller elective blocks allow students to deepen a particular discipline (for example studio painting, digital arts, choral conducting or dramatic writing) while remaining in an interdisciplinary degree. Coursework emphasises technical competence, creative process, collaborative projects and professional presentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Typical expectations include an academic record demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study and submission materials that reflect creative ability. Requirements commonly include:

• Completed high school diploma or equivalent
• Academic transcripts showing satisfactory performance in relevant subjects
• A creative portfolio for visual arts applicants or an audition for music and theatre applicants; guidelines for portfolio/audition content are provided by the department
• Personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors familiar with the applicant's work (where requested)

Additional placement or assessment may be used to determine appropriate first‑year studio, ensemble or theory classes. Prospective students whose first language is not English may need to satisfy the university's English proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical skills in making, performing and presenting work, plus experience in collaboration and project management. Career paths commonly include:

• Professional artist or performer (visual artist, musician, actor, ensemble member)
• Arts education roles, including classroom teaching (often with additional teacher certification) and community arts instruction
• Arts administration, fundraising, programming and gallery or theatre management
• Creative industries roles such as set and costume design, lighting and sound technicians, graphic and digital media design
• Further study at graduate level in fine art, music, theatre, arts management or education

Hands‑on production experience, showcases and community partnerships cultivated during the degree help graduates build portfolios, auditions and professional networks.

Why study at Kansas Wesleyan University

Kansas Wesleyan is a small, private liberal arts university where students benefit from close faculty mentorship and small class sizes. The Visual and Performing Arts programme is designed to combine practical training with a broad liberal‑arts education, supporting both technical development and critical thinking. Facilities include dedicated studios, rehearsal spaces and performance venues suitable for exhibitions, recitals and productions, and the department often collaborates with local cultural organisations to provide real‑world experience.

The university's emphasis on community engagement and individualized instruction makes it well suited to students seeking a personalised pathway through the arts, with opportunities for interdisciplinary projects, internships and experiential learning that prepare graduates for a range of creative careers or further study.