Art & Design
The Keystone of Culture
Imagine your life as a working artist, designer, or leader in the arts community. Keene State will show you exactly what it could look like! Our faculty of professional artists and designers are committed to fostering creativity with small class sizes, elite studios, multiple campus art galleries, and a robust visiting artist lecture series. As a rural arts hub with easy access to the cultural centers of Boston and New York City, our inclusive campus is the ideal home to help you hone your craft in ceramics, drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and graphic design.
BA & BFA, Studio/Design Art
Experiment before you specialize as we guide you from a comprehensive introduction through an advanced balance of theoretical and technical learning. This program features courses in graphic design, art history, painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, drawing, and photography.
Individual studio space and one-on-one time with an Art & Design faculty mentor are available for students in the Studio-Design option. Accepted BFA candidates will mount a thesis exhibition as a graduation requirement.
BA & BFA, Graphic Design
Explore conceptual and technical strategies for using images and typography to create effective visual communication through theory and hands-on design experience. We will facilitate the development of conceptual, aesthetic, technical, and collaborative skills in the context of practical problem-solving experiences.
A graphic design studio, advertising agency, marketing firm, cultural institution, publishing house, or the film and television industry are just some of your possible workplace destinations.
BA & BFA, Arts Management
Combine your passion for the visual arts with the business management and leadership skills necessary for working in arts administration in this flexible track paired with either a BA in Studio Art or Graphic Design.
Utilizing an interdisciplinary curricular approach, this specialization allows you to gain a broad perspective, discipline-specific knowledge, and practical hands-on experience in arts management. The Regional Creative Economy and Organizations and Entrepreneurship are examples of classes in this track.
BA vs BFA: How Are They Different?
The B.A. in Art & Design consists of 52 credits and is our core major. The B.A. degree is sometimes paired with other disciplines for a double major.
The B.F.A. Degree is 72 credits and requires a portfolio-based application during the student's sophomore or junior year. B.F.A Studio majors receive a private studio during their senior year and a larger footprint in the Senior Exhibition. B.F.A. Design majors participate in a public portfolio review in the spring of their senior year.
Undergraduate
Career Opportunities
Your unique blend of creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical expertise will open doors to a diverse range of industries. Our graduates pursue creative careers in fields like marketing, advertising, education, and technology, or continue their education with advanced degrees.
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Contact Admissions
Admissions Office
603-358-2276
229 Main Street
Keene, New Hampshire 03435