Frequently Asked Questions

How well recognized is the art and design program at UWSP?

UWSP is one of three UW-system campuses accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD), and is widely recognized throughout the Midwest region for its strong programs.

Do I need to submit a portfolio of artwork to be admitted to the program?

No, once you are admitted to the university based upon the general admission criteria, you will be admitted into the program, as long as there is available space.

What’s the difference between the B.A. and B.F.A. majors?

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) is a liberal arts degree, with a focus on art and design, but in the context of a broad program of general studies. B.A. students will take 45 credits within the department. The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) is the professional arts degree, with a focus on intensive work in art and design, supported by a program of general studies. The B.F.A. major consists of 80 credits within the department.

What exactly is the B.F.A. Portfolio Review?

The B.F.A. Portfolio Review is a review of your artwork that takes place during the spring semester of your sophomore year. The review acts as the gateway into the B.F.A program. The portfolio consists of artwork from the Foundations-level studio classes (Art 101, Art 102, Art 103 and Art 104), plus work from two 200-level art classes of your choosing, and is reviewed by a team of department faculty members. You must have a minimum Art GPA of 2.67, and your portfolio must demonstrate that your work meets the standards of the B.F.A. program before you are allowed into the B.F.A. major. If you are not successful in passing the B.F.A. Portfolio Review, you may remain in the art program as a B.A. major.

Is there a deadline for applying to the Art and Design program at UWSP?

Admission to the program is based upon the date of application and acceptance to the University. In general, the program fills by March for the next school year. While we accept spring semester applications to the program, you are better served by starting the program in the fall semester. This will allow you to take courses in their proper sequence.

Will I be assigned an advisor?

Yes, you will be assigned a faculty advisor from the department in your first semester. Your advisor will assist you with program planning, however, it is your responsibility to meet with your adviser and fulfill all department and university requirements, rules and regulations. In order to be fully prepared, you should familiarize yourself with the university’s course catalog, timetable and GDR requirements.

Are any of the classes taught by teaching assistants?

No, since we do not have a graduate program in art, all art classes are taught by major professors and adjunct faculty with many years of experience in the classroom.

Do I need to have taken art courses in high school to become an art major?

While previous art experiences might prove valuable, it is not a requirement of our program.

Are there art scholarships available to qualified art students?

Yes, there are scholarships and awards available through the department and university. During the 2007-2008 school year, the department presented scholarships and awards totaling over $9,000.

If I am not exactly sure that I have chosen the right major and/or emphasis, can I change it at a later date?

Yes, you may make a change in your major and/or emphasis declaration at any time. Please be aware that a change in major also changes your art and GDR requirements.

What is Art 491, the Capstone Senior Review?

All BFA candidates create competent, cohesive and in-depth bodies of work reflecting a serious commitment to creative achievement. Art 491 prepares BFA students for their senior capstone event. Students in 2D and 3D emphases mount a formal group gallery exhibition of their work. Additionally, students prepare and defend an artist statement, write a vita summary and generate documentation of their artwork. Students in the Graphic Design emphasis create a comprehensive senior project, presented in a self-promotional portfolio of no less than 12 projects, a resume, business card and website. They present their work during a professional portfolio exhibition which is open to the public.

In addition to the instructors of record, faculty review committees assist in the oversight of students’ progress in the classes. Students must pass Art 491 in order to graduate with the BFA degree. Students who do not meet the requirements of the course can either repeat the course or graduate with the BA degree, providing they satisfy the General Degree Requirements. Those requirements differ from the BFA degree in the areas of Foreign Language, History and Math.

Will I need extra money for art supplies?

Yes, but the amount will depend upon the course requirements. The University bookstore sells “art bundles” of supplies for foundation courses at a discounted price. Most textbooks do not need to be purchased as they are provided at no extra cost through the UWSP Text Rental system.

What are the “special fees” that I see in the UWSP timetable?

“Special fees” are sometimes referred to as “lab fees”. The faculty member teaching the course uses these fees to purchase materials that will be used by the class during the semester. By buying in bulk, the department can purchase materials at a discounted price. Typically, your lab fees will purchase paper, canvas, clay, mat board, illustration board, drawing materials, wood, glass, printing plates, etc.

Will I need my own computer?

Owning your own computer is not required, as you will have access to computer labs across campus, including two Mac labs in the Department of Art and Design. Having a mid-range digital camera for the documenting of your work is strongly recommended.