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Studio Arts B.F.A.

The B.F.A. in studio arts focuses on the practice and production of contemporary art and emphasizes the skills and abilities needed to develop and maintain a sustainable artistic practice.
A student works on a screen print
Studio arts student works on the printmaking machine.

About this Program

  • Pursue intensive coursework in traditional modes of art making such as ceramics, jewelry and metalsmithing, painting, printmaking and sculpture while exploring more contemporary approaches such as installation, performance art, public art and social practices.
  • Enjoy 24-hour access to individual studio spaces and access to 70,000 square feet of shared work, critique and exhibition space.
  • Learn from a professional faculty and an active schedule of acclaimed artists via our Visiting Artist Lecture Series.
  • Join one of our student organizations, including Shaped Clay Society, JAM (Jewelry and Metalsmithing) Club and Command Print.
  • Study abroad in Florence, Italy, through Syracuse Abroad or spend a semester studying and interning in Los Angeles through the college’s LA Semester program.
  • Benefit from a strong, supportive alumni network.
  • Students have the option to join the Design Living Learning Community.

Program Information

Degree Type

Major

Outcome

B.F.A.

Modality

In-person

College or School

Career Path

A woman looks at large color photos coming out of a printer while a man works on a computer in the background.

College of Visual and Performing Arts

Home to the visual and performing arts at Syracuse University, VPA supports the creative process and professional development of its students. VPA is divided into seven areas: the School of Art; the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies; the School of Design; the Department of Drama; the Rose, Jules R. and Stanford S. Setnor School of Music; the Department of Film and Media Arts; and the Department of Creative Arts Therapy.
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Curriculum

Major requirements: 44 credits
Art intensive requirements: 15 credits
Art in context requirements: 12 credits
Academic requirements: 6 credits
Academic electives: 27 credits
Studio electives: 18 credits
Total Credits Required: 122

Extracurricular Opportunities

Study abroad opportunity

Florence Semester

Spend a semester at Syracuse University’s center in Florence, Italy, where you’ll explore major museums and work in the University’s art studios, located in the historic art district. Or explore another study abroad destination through Syracuse Abroad, which offers more than 100 programs in over 60 countries.

Student organization

Shaped Clay Society

The Shaped Clay Society is a student-run organization of undergraduate and graduate ceramics students. Through various fundraising activities—including a popular mug sale on campus—the group increases educational opportunities, such as bringing visiting artists to campus or supporting a local initiative, such as Empty Bowls, which benefits the Interreligious Food Consortium of Central New York.

Student organization

JAM Club

The Jewelry and Metalsmithing (JAM) Club is open to anyone interested in becoming a member. You will gain experience making and selling jewelry, T-shirts and program-related items to the Syracuse University community. You will also learn about pricing, advertising, organizing a sale and running a business-oriented art club.

Student organization

Command Print

Command Print is the student-run print club. As a member, you can participate in numerous events, field trips and demonstrations related to printmaking.

Learn more about this program

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