With our cultural and technological worlds rapidly evolving, the essentiality of professionals on the cutting edge of art and media design is growing exponentially. In recognition of this trend, LMU Studio Arts developed a unique opportunity for students seeking specialized art degrees, introducing a new BFA degree program in Fall 2022, in addition to the already existent BA program.
The new program offers seven concentrations including 3D Studies, Art Education, Drawing, Painting, Photography, Visual Communication Design, and Multimedia Arts, allowing students to gain professional competency in a specialized area of visual arts. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and unique internship opportunities, as well as workshops, networking, and exhibiting their work.
According to Saeri Cho Dobson, Ed.D, chair of studio arts and professor of design, the program is driven by the commitment to staying current in the ever-changing artistic world so students are prepared to take on career-oriented projects upon graduation. “Our BFA curriculum is continuously reviewed and updated in response to developments in the art world to ensure that our program remains relevant and on the cutting edge of artistic education and practice.”
The BFA degree requires 60% of coursework in ART and ARHS to enhance students’ knowledge and foster strong professional careers in the art and design fields. The program is intensive and demanding, but for good reason; its high-quality resources and connection with the diverse city of Los Angeles paves way for students to pursue important career opportunities in art and design media. Vianca Rivera, a sophomore in the program with a concentration in multimedia arts, has found her experience to be incredibly positive and meaningful. “The multimedia program has allowed me the space and opportunity to prove to myself and others that I am capable of being an artist and designer. The program has helped set me and my peers up for success after graduation.”
Another integral way the program equips BFA students with necessities for the professional world is with access to meaningful connections, both internally and externally. For Rivera, the smaller size of the program is a huge advantage. “All the peers that we are learning alongside now will be the same group of people we may work with for future projects and jobs, so it is incredibly special to have the opportunity to begin building relationships with each other now.” The program also leverages its network of alumni and professionals in the field to provide students with mentorship opportunities, internships, and guest lectures.
The launch of the program has been a success, but it is still young, and Dobson sees even more coming on the horizon. She anticipates that the countless hours of hands-on work with experienced artists and educators, unique experiences and specialized teaching method will help students develop an artistic voice that sets them apart. “This level of intellectual rigor ensures that our graduates leave not just as skilled practitioners, but as thoughtful and engaged contributors to the broader discourse of art and design.”
