Art and Design
The Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design at the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive program for students interested in visual arts, creative expression, and design principles. The curriculum emphasizes studio practice, art history, design theory, and digital media, preparing students to develop creative concepts, execute projects, and analyze artistic works critically. Students engage in hands on studio work, collaborative projects, and research exercises, developing skills necessary to communicate visually, solve design challenges, and create evidence based artistic solutions. This program cultivates both creative proficiency and analytical expertise, equipping graduates for careers in design, visual arts, and related professional fields.
Learners explore interdisciplinary connections between traditional art, contemporary design, and digital media. The curriculum offers opportunities for applied projects, exhibitions, and portfolio development, allowing students to refine artistic techniques, conceptual thinking, and problem solving abilities. Through mentorship, studio practice, and collaborative assignments, students enhance creative, technical, and professional skills. With a focus on applied creativity and professional development, the program prepares graduates to contribute to design studios, galleries, cultural institutions, and creative industries that require strong artistic vision and technical capability.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Art and Design
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of Michigan, United States
- Field of Study: Design
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 - Foundations in Art and Design
• Drawing and Visual Fundamentals
• Introduction to Design Principles
• Art History Survey
• Digital Media Basics
Year 2 - Core Studio and Design
• Painting and Sculpture
• Graphic Design Fundamentals
• 2D and 3D Design Techniques
• Visual Communication
Year 3 - Advanced Applications
• Interactive and Digital Design
• Advanced Studio Practice
• Typography and Branding
• Elective Modules in Fine Arts or Design
Year 4 - Capstone and Professional Integration
• Senior Thesis / Portfolio Project
• Exhibition and Professional Practice
• Applied Design Project
• Seminar in Contemporary Art and Design
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program acquire advanced creative, technical, and analytical skills that prepare them for careers in graphic design, visual arts, digital media, advertising, and cultural institutions. They develop expertise in visual communication, design thinking, and applied creativity, enabling them to execute projects, design campaigns, and solve complex artistic challenges. The program also prepares graduates for roles in design consultancy, multimedia production, and creative project management, equipping them to provide evidence based solutions in professional artistic environments. Graduates leave ready to apply creative expertise and professional skills to diverse artistic and design careers.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students seeking a curriculum that integrates artistic expression with design thinking, digital media, and professional practice, offering mentorship, studio work, and exhibition opportunities. Learners benefit from faculty expertise, hands on projects, and rigorous coursework that strengthen creative, analytical, and problem solving skills. The curriculum emphasizes evidence based design, applied creativity, and professional development, preparing graduates to develop innovative solutions, lead projects, and contribute to the visual arts and design industries. With its focus on creative excellence and applied proficiency, the program provides a dynamic academic environment for students aspiring to careers in art, design, and creative leadership.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
