We combine the benefits of a small studio program with the resources and facilities of a major research university. Our graduates are certified to teach grades pre-K through 12 and have a high job placement rate.
Tailor this major to your interests by taking one of these courses as you pursue your degree:
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ART 121:
Visual Foundations 1
The course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles and concepts of two-dimensional image making with an emphasis on color theory and design. Through creative assignments students develop abilities and visual awareness emphasizing the basics of color perception, form, proportion and rhythm.
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ART 122:
Visual Foundations 2
The course incorporates projects involving abstract and representational ideas in three dimensions and investigates the basic concepts of line, plane, volume, form, mass, texture, composition and time.
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ART 111:
Drawing 1
The course emphasizes fundamental principles of drawing with a focus on building basic skills through direct observation, using traditional graphic media and expression.
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ART 112:
Drawing 2
The course emphasizes fundamental principles of drawing with a focus on more expressive approaches to basic problems. Greater emphasis is placed on abstraction and non-traditional drawing processes and media.
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ART 265:
Art Education: Elementary
This course is designed on the discipline-based content and the character of art education at the elementary level. Emphasis is placed on child-centered curriculum development. Course content is based on the WV CSOs and national standards.
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ART 266:
Art Education: Secondary
This course is designed on discipline-based content and the character of art education at the secondary level. Emphasis is placed on child-centered curriculum development. Course content is based on the WV CSOs and national standards.
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ART 267:
Technology Methods in Art Education
This class examines multiple aspects of classroom technology in arts education. The course combines hands-on computer techniques, critical analysis of digital art, and practical experience with curriculum design.
Tailor this major to your interests by focusing your coursework in one of these areas:
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2D Studio Painting, Photography, Print Media
Explore creative exploration in both traditional and experiential 2D media including painting and photography. Painting courses provide training in traditional and experimental oil and acrylic media and the creation of both figurative and abstract imagery. Photography courses focus on the production of contemporary art through digital and traditional photographic processes. Students have access to the naturally-lit painting studio located on the top floor of the Canady Creative Arts Center, a traditional darkroom and a digital imaging lab.
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3D Studio and Public Art
Pursue coursework in sculpture, ceramics or ceramic production methods. 91ÌÒÉ« is one of the few schools in the nation to offer a ceramics production line, bringing student productions to the general public. Ceramics courses focus on technical expertise, design and conceptual approaches. Sculpture courses encourage experimental approaches to art-making including mixed media, mold making, installation, community based and environmental work. You’ll gain a thorough introduction to many different materials and processes to enhance your ability to solve structural, spatial, formal and conceptual problems.
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Digital Art and Animation
The Digital Art and Animation AOE fosters creative exploration in the production of digital video, animation, installation, interactivity and sound design. You’ll hone skills in multimedia tools, video production and interactive software while gaining knowledge in core principles of interactivity, non-linear narration and interaction design.
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Graphic Design
Study in Graphic Design begins with learning a foundation in typography, color, symbolic drawings, design for small and large formats and design thinking. In addition to computer graphics and web design, tactical elements of design are explored hands-on through paper engineering, book arts courses and access to a letterpress studio.
The Graphic Design area runs a model design studio, Studio 2453, that serves up to 30 clients per year. Students work as project directors with clients to produce designs that often benefit a particular community.
Take advantage of special options related to this major:
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Honors
Expand your curiosity — and enhance your curriculum — through the 91ÌÒÉ« Honors College. Two programs are offered: for first-
and second-year students and for third- and fourth-year students.
