Printmaking
Notre Dame University’s Printmaking program offers a studio-based education that emphasizes both the technical mastery and conceptual depth of traditional and contemporary print media. Students explore a variety of techniques—including intaglio, lithography, screen printing, and digital processes—while learning to develop their own visual language. The program encourages experimentation and critical thinking, allowing students to push the boundaries of print as both a fine art and a medium of communication.
Through individual mentorship, collaborative studio culture, and exhibition opportunities, students gain hands-on experience in the creative process from ideation to final presentation. The curriculum integrates art history, drawing, visual theory, and professional practice, equipping students with a strong foundation in visual literacy. By engaging with printmaking’s rich history and modern relevance, graduates emerge with both the skills and vision to contribute meaningfully to the contemporary art world.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Printmaking
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 January 2026
- Location: University of Notre Dame, United States
- Field of Study: Painting & Drawing
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Art and Design
- Introduction to Drawing
- Fundamentals of 2D Design
- Survey of Art History
- Studio Practices in Visual Arts
- Color Theory and Composition
Year 2 – Introduction to Printmaking
- Printmaking Techniques I (Relief & Intaglio)
- Life Drawing
- History of Printmaking
- Digital Imaging for Artists
- Elective: Art and Society
Year 3 – Intermediate Exploration and Conceptual Growth
- Printmaking Techniques II (Lithography & Screen Printing)
- Contemporary Art Theory
- Advanced Drawing Techniques
- Studio Critique and Presentation
- Elective: Experimental Media
Year 4 – Specialization and Exhibition Practice
- Senior Printmaking Studio
- Portfolio Development
- Exhibition Planning and Curation
- Professional Practices in Fine Arts
- Capstone Project or Thesis Exhibition
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Printmaking program are uniquely equipped to pursue diverse careers in the creative arts. Many work as studio artists, print technicians, illustrators, art educators, gallery assistants, or visual designers. Others apply their fine arts training in industries such as publishing, advertising, museum education, or cultural preservation. The program’s emphasis on both traditional techniques and modern technologies enables students to navigate between analog and digital art environments with ease. In addition, the strong visual storytelling and composition skills developed throughout the degree prepare graduates for graduate study in fine arts, as well as roles in creative direction and design-focused fields. Their ability to conceptualize, create, and critique visual work makes them strong contributors to any artistic or cultural institution.
Why Choose This Program
Notre Dame’s Printmaking program provides a rigorous, immersive, and creatively stimulating environment for students interested in visual expression through print. What sets this program apart is its integration of craftsmanship, experimentation, and conceptual development, fostering artists who not only master technique but also engage deeply with meaning and message. Students benefit from access to professional print studios, exhibitions, and a supportive community of peers and faculty. With a curriculum grounded in both tradition and innovation, this program empowers aspiring artists to shape their unique voices while contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 574 631 5000
Email: admissions@nd.edu
Address: University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
