Idaho State University

What you'll study

This programme provides a mix of studio practice, performance training and academic study. Core modules introduce foundations in drawing, design, art history, performance studies and music or theatre fundamentals, while elective tracks allow deeper focus in areas such as studio art, graphic and digital media, theatre performance and production, music performance and composition, or dance.

• Studio and visual arts: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, digital media, portfolio development and exhibition practices.
• Performing arts: acting, voice and movement, ensemble performance, choreography, rehearsal techniques and public performance.
• Theatre production and technical skills: stagecraft, lighting, sound, costume and set design, stage management and production practicum.
• Music: music theory, ear training, ensemble participation, applied lessons and basic composition/arrangement.
• Academic and professional studies: art and performance history, arts criticism, arts administration, pedagogical methods for arts teaching, and capstone or senior project to synthesise practice and research.
• Practical experiences: performance labs, gallery exhibitions, community-engaged projects, internships with regional arts organisations and opportunities to work on fully staged productions.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold an accredited secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions will consider academic preparation in arts-related subjects alongside general academic performance. Additional requirements vary by emphasis:

• Portfolio: applicants concentrating in studio art or design are commonly asked to submit a portfolio of recent work demonstrating skill and creative range.
• Audition or interview: applicants seeking concentrations in music, theatre or dance may be required to audition or attend an interview to assess performance potential.
• Recommended preparation: previous coursework in visual arts, music, drama or dance, and general coursework in English and humanities help prepare students for degree study.
• International students: proof of English language proficiency is required if prior education was not in English (accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the university).
• Transfer students: transfer credit is assessed on a course-by-course basis; work experience, previous college coursework and portfolios can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical skills and creative portfolios that support a variety of careers in the arts and culture sector. Common paths include:

• Professional artist, designer or composer working freelance or within studios and agencies.
• Actor, musician, dancer or other performing artist employed by regional theatres, companies and touring ensembles.
• Theatre and production technician roles such as stage manager, lighting or sound technician, set and costume designer.
• Arts administrator, curator or gallery staff in museums, galleries and cultural organisations.
• Secondary education or community arts educator (additional teacher certification may be required for K–12 teaching positions).
• Further study at graduate level in fine arts, performance, arts management or related fields to specialise or move into academic and research roles.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers this programme with an emphasis on hands-on learning and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from dedicated studios, rehearsal spaces and performance venues on campus, regular public exhibitions and productions, and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

The university’s regional connections provide internship and community engagement opportunities in cultural organisations across the state, while small class sizes support individualised feedback on creative work. This combination of practice-led instruction, real-world experience and academic study prepares students for both professional practice and further academic study in the arts.