Undergraduate Programs

You can pursue a B.F.A. in art studio and design, a B.A. or B.S. in art, a B.A. in art history or a B.S.Ed. in art and design education. These degrees (except art history) require you to complete the art foundations program.

Foundations Program

The art foundations program consists of 12 semester hours and provides you with fundamental skills, knowledge and experiences essential to your development as a visual arts professional. The program includes classes in 2D and 3D traditional and digital design, as well as two classes in basic drawing, all of which are taken during the first year of study. In addition, all studio and art education majors must take a beginning life drawing class and a two-course sequence surveying the history of world art.

Transfer students may satisfy some or all of these prerequisite courses at other institutions, depending on the evaluation of their transfer credits upon entering NIU.

Upon successful completion of the Foundations Program, you will have achieved a professional disposition as demonstrated by:

• Ability to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation
• Ability to creatively translate ideas into visual terms using a wide range of art media and processes
• A capacity to think critically, and write and speak clearly about the visual arts
• An understanding of the wide range of contemporary and historical visual culture and its role in society
• Manifesting a work ethic that reflects integrity, teamwork, and dedication to professional growth, social responsibility and the confidence to take risks

Explore Art Majors

Minor and Certificate Programs

We have minor and certificate programs to complement any degree. Gain knowledge and experience while working with leaders in the art field.