Art and Art History
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art and Art History at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a comprehensive 4-year program that provides students with both practical artistic skills and a deep understanding of the historical and theoretical contexts of art. This interdisciplinary program encourages students to explore their creative potential while developing technical proficiency in various artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, and digital media. In addition to hands-on studio practice, the curriculum includes courses in art history, art theory, and visual culture, offering students a well-rounded education in the history of art from ancient to contemporary periods, as well as critical analysis of art's role in society.
Students in this program will not only cultivate their artistic abilities, but will also gain a strong foundation in the historical, cultural, and theoretical underpinnings of art production. The program emphasizes creativity, innovation, and conceptual thinking, encouraging students to challenge traditional boundaries of art-making. As they progress, students will have opportunities to exhibit their work in galleries, participate in art residencies, and engage with professional artists and curators. By the end of the program, graduates will be equipped with both a solid technical foundation in the visual arts and a comprehensive understanding of art's cultural significance, preparing them for a variety of careers in the arts or graduate study in art history, curatorial studies, or fine arts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Art and Art History
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Fine Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States
- Field of Study: Visual Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Art and Art History
• Introduction to Drawing and Painting
• Fundamentals of 3D Design and Sculpture
• Art History: Ancient to Renaissance
• Introduction to Digital Media and Photography
• Visual Culture and Aesthetic Theory
Year 2 – Core Studio Practice and Art Theory
• Intermediate Painting and Drawing Techniques
• History of Modern Art
• Sculpture and Installation Art
• Art History: Renaissance to Contemporary
• Media Studies and Art Criticism
Year 3 – Advanced Art Production and Art History
• Advanced Studio Practice in Painting and Sculpture
• Art History of the 20th Century
• Digital Arts and New Media
• Curatorial Practices and Museum Studies
• Contemporary Art and Theory
Year 4 – Capstone Project and Professional Development
• Senior Exhibition and Portfolio Development
• Art and Public Engagement: Community Projects
• Professional Practices in the Arts
• Internship in an Art Gallery, Museum, or Cultural Institution
• Career Development and Graduate School Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the BFA in Art and Art History are prepared for a wide range of careers in the visual arts, arts administration, and cultural institutions. Many work as fine artists, gallery directors, museum curators, or art educators. Others pursue careers in art conservation, exhibition design, art criticism, or public art projects. Some graduates enter the commercial sector, working as graphic designers, art directors, or illustrators in advertising, publishing, or digital media. The program also provides strong preparation for graduate study in areas such as art history, curatorial studies, art conservation, or fine arts. Additionally, many graduates choose to work in nonprofit art organizations, arts advocacy, or as independent artists, often exhibiting their work in national and international galleries.
Why Choose This Program
This program is perfect for students who want to merge their passion for artistic creation with an intellectual engagement with the history and theory of visual culture. The combination of studio-based training and critical art history ensures that students develop both technical and conceptual skills, preparing them to become versatile artists and informed cultural critics. Students will gain experience in a variety of media and artistic practices, allowing them to find their individual artistic voice while also gaining an understanding of art's broader societal impacts. With hands-on studio work, internships, and opportunities for exhibitions, students are well-prepared to enter the professional world or pursue graduate education. The program also fosters an understanding of art’s role in society, helping students become engaged and thoughtful contributors to the evolving world of contemporary visual arts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States
