Art, B.F.A.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) at Governors State University is a professional studio-based degree that prepares students to create, critique, and communicate through visual art across multiple media. The BFA combines rigorous studio practice with creative exploration to help students develop a distinctive artistic voice. Through concentrations in Studio Art, Film and Photography, and Graphic Design, students engage in an interdisciplinary approach to visual arts while building both technical and conceptual skills.

Students work across a range of media—including drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, digital imaging, and printmaking—while also studying art history and visual theory. The program encourages experimentation and individual expression, allowing students to shape their artistic direction while developing a strong professional portfolio. In the final year, students complete a senior project that showcases their creative work and research, preparing them for careers in the visual arts or for advanced study.

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Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) develop advanced creative, technical, and conceptual skills that prepare them for careers across the visual arts, design, media, and creative industries. The program emphasizes portfolio development, critical thinking, and visual communication—equipping students to pursue professional artistic practice, collaborative creative roles, or further study in graduate programs:

Graphic Designer – $58,000 (median)
Multimedia Artist / Animator – $99,000 (median)
Art Director – $106,000 (median)
Photographer – $40,000–$60,000
Fine Artist (Painter, Sculptor, Illustrator) – $60,000 (median, varies widely)
Exhibition Designer / Gallery or Museum Professional – $55,000–$80,000

What You'll Study

Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.

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How to Apply

You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.

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Financial Aid and Scholarships

Governors State University offers a range of financial aid options to help undergraduate students make their degree more affordable, including federal, state, institutional, and private funding. To get started, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using GovState's school code (009145). The FAFSA determines eligibility for grants, loans, work-study programs, and many scholarship opportunities.

Grants, including the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), are awarded based on financial need and do not require repayment. Federal Direct Loans provide borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after graduation.

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Get Involved

Art students can enrich their degree and build professional skills by engaging with creative communities both on and off campus. In addition to joining GovState's student Art club, Art Forum, consider participating in:

College Art Association (CAA): Connect with a national network of visual arts scholars, artists, and critics for conferences, publications, and mentorship opportunities.

National Art Education Association (NAEA): Offers resources, professional development, and community for students interested in art education and advocacy.

Society for Photographic Education (SPE): Ideal for students exploring photography and imaging through workshops, conferences, and exhibitions.

Always look for opportunities to be involved with Community Art Projects.