Art Degrees
Develop your artistic skills and vision with an Art degree
Grow your technical skill development, personal expression, and knowledge of various artistic mediums at St. Ambrose.
Choose your major and shape your creative path
Explore a wide range of artistic mediums at St. Ambrose and hone your craft. Along the way, you will be taught the history of artistic techniques and movements, the tactical skills and techniques of different art forms, and professional practices in the art industry.
Art program overview
Our Art program is designed to deliver a contemporary and complete art experience. A core set of courses will develop skills in basic drawing, problem-solving, writing, and learning how to conduct relevant and accurate research. In later semesters you will learn to synthesize influences and establish an original voice. You will explore and build creativity to establish your niche in the field. Our studio classes are small, allowing for more one-on-one instruction and custom-tailored learning and advising experiences.
97%
of Art History students are working or continuing education in the field
96%
of students believe tutoring services are readily available.
Potential career paths with an Art degree
At SAU, your career path is up to you. Choose the endorsement that fits your goals, and we will help you to achieve them.
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Print and Book
Explore Print & Book- Print production manager
- Book editor
- Graphic designer
- Archivist
- Museum curator
- Art director
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Graphic Design
Explore Graphic Design- Graphic designer
- Web designer
- Art instructor
- UI/UX designer
- Advertising designer
- Art director
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Painting
Explore Painting- Fine artist
- Gallery owner
- Art instructor
- Illustrator
- Set designer for film and theater
- Art critic
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Art Therapy
Explore Art Therapy- Activities director
- Art educator
- Child care worker
- Life skills counselor
- Mental health technician
- Rehabilitation assistant
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Art History
Explore Art History- Curator
- Museum educator
- Art gallery manager
- Fundraiser/grant writer
- Librarian
- Archivist
What you’ll learn in your Art program
As an Art student, you will focus on the history of different artistic techniques and movements, the techniques of different art forms, and how to apply this knowledge in professional settings. The specific art techniques learned will differ based on concentration, but there are many skills shared by any Art student that will prepare them for the future.
Core skills you’ll learn in the Art program
- You will study a variety of subjects, including the human form, through observational drawing to hone perceptual understanding of shapes.
- You will also be prepared with interviewing skills, resume and portfolio building, and the process of applying for graduate school.
- Design students will gain introductions to motion graphics applying computer technology to the design process.
- There will be plenty of opportunities to express yourself through fine arts offerings that explore building narratives and breaking down the drawing process in depth.
| CLASS CODE | CLASS TITLE | CREDITS |
|---|---|---|
| AD 180 | Motion Graphics | 3 Credits |
| AD 200 | Figure Composition | 3 Credits |
| AD 310 | WI Professional Practices | 3 Credits |
| AD 380 | Visual Narratives | 3 Credits |
| AD 390 | Interaction Design | 3 Credits |
How much does an Art degree cost?
The total cost of your Art degree will depend on your major, scholarships and finances, transfer credits, and other factors.
- Part-time tuition: 1–11 semester credits, per semester credit: $1,200
- Full-time tuition: 12–18 semester credits, per year: $39,348
- Other: 19 or more semester credits, per semester credit: $1,200
Find detailed tuition information and cost scenarios for each specialization:
Get an estimate of how much your Art degree will cost
Use our Net Price Calculator to get an estimate of how much your degree will cost. Get my estimate.
Reduce your tuition by up to $24k
Every student is awarded a scholarship based on their GPA. St. Ambrose University recognizes and rewards students for their academic performance.
Housing and meal plans for Art students
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet your needs. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone.
Freshman housing
For incoming freshmen, on-campus residence halls provide a convenient college experience. Living among peers creates a sense of community and support, helping new students transition smoothly into university life. View freshman dorms.
Transfer & upperclassmen housing
As students progress through their academic journey, they have the option to transition to on-campus, apartment-style living. These accommodations offer more independence while still being located conveniently close to campus facilities and resources. View upperclassmen dorms.
Meal plans
St. Ambrose offers flexible meal plan options to accommodate various preferences and schedules. Whether you're looking for full dining hall access or a smaller meal plan for occasional use, there's a choice that suits your needs. View available meal plans.
What are the Art admission requirements?
Applicants to the Art program must provide the following information for admission:
- Applicants must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- Applicants must provide an official high school transcript
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
Visit St. Ambrose
Experience our vibrant campus firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our facilities, meet faculty, and discover your future at St. Ambrose University.
Schedule my visitWhy earn an Art degree from SAU?
Our Art programs create well-rounded artists and designers that are comfortable exploring their creative passions in a wide variety of settings.
Diverse minor options
Choose to minor in Art Therapy, Arts Administration, Design and Interactive Media, Graphic Design, Painting, or Print and Book.
Small studio classes
Benefit from one-on-one instruction in a 1,600 square-feet, beautifully-lit studio space.
On-campus galleries
The Galvin Fine Arts Center features two public galleries – the Morrissey and Catich – where students exhibit their work.
Free admission to the Figge
Each student receives a free membership to the Figge Art Museum, which provides access to world-class exhibitions, events and lectures.
Art Teacher Education
Our Art Education program is available for students interested in teaching art in K-12 settings.
Art news and events
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QC World Cultures Festival
International Studies Program and World Affairs Council of the Quad Cities invites you to a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity.
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From the lab to the studio: Calvin Hertel finds his path through art at St. Ambrose
Calvin Hertel ‘25 didn’t enter college expecting to become an artist. What began as a biology major slowly transformed into something more personal.
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“With a Prayerful Heart”: Fr. Eric Koami Kpotor finds purpose through music
When Fr. Eric stepped onto the stage, he was sharing music shaped by prayer, vocation & a lifetime of service.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
