College of Visual Arts : Programs : Bachelor of Fine Arts

bachelor of fine arts

MISSION OF THE COLLEGE
Programming at the College of Visual Arts fulfills the college's mission to "educate men and women to explore opportunities and develop the skills and confidence necessary to become accomplished artists in the dynamic world of art and design." The mission is carried out through educational programming that nourishes each student's abilities, helping each person to realize his or her full creative and intellectual potential.

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
The College of Visual Arts offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in graphic design/interactive media, photography, illustration, drawing/painting, sculpture, and the newest program sequence, interdisciplinary art and design studies (IADS). The IADS program emphasizes interdisciplinary experiences that integrate work in various art and design fields, while ensuring a core concentration for in-depth experience in one of the studio areas or in advertising, museum and gallery studies, printmaking/book arts, or teaching artist.

Internships and professional portfolio development prepare students for professional practice. The curriculum has always been dynamic at CVA, changing as the demands of the disciplines in art and design practice evolve. As Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs, Ann Ledy began the process of revitalizing the curriculum in 2004 with a thorough restructuring of the first year curriculum and the senior capstone experience; curriculum change has continued in all of the four-year major program sequences.

CVA is different from other art and design colleges because of its small size, enabling faculty and staff to meet the needs of each student. Faculty and staff know each student as a unique individual and recognize each person's special abilities.

Liberal arts coursework is fully integrated in all of the art and design majors. Innovative teaching strategies of learning through the arts are employed in liberal arts courses. Students gain skills in oral presentation and in critical reading, thinking, and writing through their experiences across the curriculum.

The academic programs are supported by a full array of student services. Faculty advisors guide students through their four years of study. The Learning Resource and Writing Center and the Digital Tutoring programs provide academic assistance. The Office of Student Life coordinates many essential services for students. Student mentors help first year students adjust to college life and become participants in the CVA community, and students receive the personal assistance they need through consultation with the Director of Student Life and referrals for professional services.

CVA provides opportunities for students to engage with the community through gallery programming, including round table discussions with artists, special lectures, and a collaborative project with the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

At CVA, students develop their knowledge and skills in art and design, while also learning to solve problems critically and creatively and to communicate effectively. The fields of study embrace a global perspective that is essential in our 21st century world. At CVA, students receive the knowledge they need to become accomplished professional artists and designers.