The studio art program at St. Ambrose is a concentration within our BA in Art + Design degree. This program is designed to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and experience to build a career across art mediums including painting, drawing, paper and print making. You’ll focus on traditional techniques and contemporary practices. Under the guidance of experienced faculty members, you have the freedom to explore your creativity and develop your artistic skills.
What is a Studio Art degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a degree in Studio Art?
Studio Art students at St. Ambrose students have access to excellent student art facilities and one-on-one interaction with practicing artists. Our program emphasizes career development ensuring students graduate with the skills and portfolio they need to succeed in their field.
Small studio classes
Benefit from one-on-one instruction in a 1,600 square-feet, beautifully-lit studio space.
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.
Professional practice
Our capstone preps you for interviewing, resume and portfolio building, and assistance with graduate school applications.
On-campus galleries
The Galvin Fine Arts Center features two public galleries – the Morrissey and Catich – where students exhibit their work.
Industry connections
SAU’s Art Department partners with local museums and galleries to give students a head start in their field.
Graduate with a portfolio
Students graduate with a full portfolio tailored for use in graduate school applications.
What you’ll learn in your Studio Art program
Our Studio Art concentration within the BA in Art + Design degree allows you to refine your skills, develop across medium, and enhance your perspectives. In collaboration with faculty and fellow students; students in the studio art program will develop:
- Strong foundation across traditional medium
- A full understanding of cultural, environmental, ethical, and historical impacts
- Improve critical thinking and decision-making skills
Explore Studio Art courses
- This degree requires you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 36 core curriculum credits, 30 Art and Design credits, 21 Studio Art credits, and 33 elective credits.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| AD 170 | Water Media | 3 credits |
| AD 220 | Printmaking | 3 credits |
| AD 250 | Experimental Drawing | 3 credits |
| AD 300 | Figure Drawing | 3 credits |
| AD 370 | Painting Lab | 9 credits |
How much does a bachelor's degree in studio art cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $19,674 | $39,348 |
| Housing** | $4,313 | $8,625 |
| Food*** | $3,135 | $6,270 |
| Technology fee | $150 | $300 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $27,272 | $54,543 |
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
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.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
How does the Studio Art faculty support their students?
St. Ambrose University’s Studio Art faculty excel at one-on-one interaction and guidance and apply it to everything
to enhance your creative growth and ambition. All of our instructors are practicing artists/designers who are recognized for both their expertise and community contributions.
Studio Art program faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for a degree in Studio Art?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Art scholarships
Undergraduate Art majors and minors can access up to $3,000 in scholarships each year. Applicants submit a portfolio including 10-12 original works of art or design. Portfolios are reviewed by faculty in the art department. Preference is given to applicants who submit before March 10. Learn more about art scholarships.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Don’t let cost hinder your future.
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
-Bailey Hird, Fairfield, Iowa
What’s on campus for Studio Art students?
St. Ambrose University’s Art Department and student art facilities are housed in the Galvin Fine Arts Center. Our main drawing and painting studio is 1,600 square-feet of beautifully-lit open space.
Galvin is also home to two galleries. The Catich Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibits featuring the work of regional and national artists as well as faculty and seniors graduating with honors. The Morrissey Gallery offers a unique exhibition opportunity to local and regional artists.
Join SAU’s Art Club to participate in events at local museums where they interact with artists and meet new people through regular events at local museums. During "teaching nights" a member teaches participants an artistic skill so they can build on and expand their talent and abilities.
A strong foundation for your career
“My courses provided me with a strong foundation that I could build upon as I continued on in my academic career. The internship opportunities I had at St. Ambrose especially prepared me by giving me real world experience in my field.”
-Allison Boyer ‘22, BA in Art History and Painting
What are the admission requirements for a degree in Studio Art?
Here are the admissions requirements for our Studio Art program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Studio Art degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate of our Studio Art program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Fine artist
- Gallery owner
- Art instructor
- Illustrator
- Set designer for film and theater
- Art critic
Potential employment settings
- Museums
- Art studios
- Schools and universities
- Creative agencies
- Government agencies
- Motion picture studios
Traits of an artist
- Creativity
- Problem solving
- Strong work ethic
- Aesthetic judgment
- Self discipline
- Cultural awareness and understanding
Industry facts
- The fine arts field is growing steadily with the need for craft and fine artists expected to rise 4% through 2032.
- The median wage for craft and fine artists was $53,140 in May 2022.
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
News and events at SAU
>
St. Ambrose University Homecoming 2026
We can't wait to celebrate Homecoming 2026 with you! Check back closer to the event to see what the weekend has in store for our forever Bees.
Read more
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.
Read more
“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.
Read more
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.
