Our Majors
The Department of Art+Design at Anderson University offers five majors:
- Visual Communication Design
- Fine Arts Studio
- Fine Arts Glass
- Visual Arts Education
- General Studies
(complementary major)
1. The Foundations Program
We start at the beginning. The Foundations Program is a sequence of six courses geared to provide you with a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of art and design, regardless of your experience level or major. It’s a time of discovery and challenge as you collaborate with fellow classmates to explore and expand your understanding of the visual world.
At the completion of the six foundations classes, all students present their artwork for a Foundations Portfolio Review. The review ensures that you are prepared for the intermediate levels of study within the program. You are required to pass your review in order to continue with the courses for your major.
Visit the Foundations Portfolio.
2. Intermediate Coursework and Advanced Portfolio Review
Which is your interest? Paint, ink, clay, glass, bronze, fibers, wood, pixels ... or all of the above? You choose. The intermediate studio courses are structured to give you the freedom and flexibility to select a variety of combinations. We want to empower you to take ownership of your education.
A second portfolio review takes place as you near the end of your intermediate courses. Like the Foundations Review, the Advanced Portfolio Review is a progress check to assess the development of your artwork. Passing this review allows you to begin your senior portfolio work.
3. Senior Exhibition
Your education in the Department of Art+Design culminates with a final, senior exhibition and written paper. This is your opportunity to publicly present your matured artwork – artwork that reflects the passion and vision you've developed while a student at AU.
