Overview

The Painting programme at Murray State University provides students with a structured environment to master the complexities of oil media and visual composition. This curriculum is designed to transition learners from foundational technical skills to the development of a sophisticated, independent artistic voice.

Initial instruction focuses heavily on the physical properties of paint, teaching students essential techniques such as flat application, blending, scumbling, and wet-into-wet methods. By building upon skills acquired in drawing and two-dimensional design, participants learn to create images that balance tension, scale, and value. A strong emphasis is placed on colour theory, ensuring students understand how to mix pigments accurately and how colour relationships influence perceived space.

Why Painting at Murray State University?

The institution provides an exceptional environment for artistic growth, featuring a dedicated painting studio that spans 7,333 square feet. This expansive facility is designed to support high-level production and creative exploration, offering students 24-hour access to ensure they can work according to their own artistic rhythms. The department also provides individual studio spaces for students who choose to place a specific emphasis on this discipline.

Teaching at the university is characterised by intensive studio hours, typically involving six hours of practical work per week for each course. This hands-on approach ensures that students receive consistent feedback and criticism from faculty. The programme’s structure allows for a seamless transition from mastering basic rendering to engaging with the contemporary art world, making it a distinctive choice for aspiring professional painters.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 7836 per semester
National fee: USD 5436 per semester
Local fee: USD 5160 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Painting Studio Practice
Observational and Conceptual Painting
Color Theory and Application
Composition and Visual Structure
Painting Materials and Techniques
Surface Preparation and Experimental Methods
Contemporary Painting Practices
Concept Development in Painting
Critical Analysis and Studio Critique
Independent or Advanced Painting Studio Projects

Careers with Painting

Graduates of the programme are prepared to enter the professional art world as practitioners, having identified their unique style and subject matter. The rigorous focus on technical mastery and contemporary theory equips students for roles within the creative industries, including positions as independent artists, studio assistants, or gallery professionals. The emphasis on personal expression and critical discussion ensures that graduates can navigate the complexities of the modern art market and exhibition spaces.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Art History

Greek and Roman Art

Colors

Modern Art

Oil Painting

Painting

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-10 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-19 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Murray, United States

Disciplines

Design Painting & Drawing View 174 other Bachelors in Painting & Drawing in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts for all years of high school with a minimum GPA of 2.0

If transcripts are not written in English, you must also submit certified translations

High School Diploma OR Graduation Certificate

If the graduation certificate is not written in English, you must also submit a certified translation

Proof of Financial Support

Bank Statement (issued within the last 6 months) showing a balance of at least $25,436 OR

Scholarship Letter

Copy of Passport for applicant and all dependents

No NECO Results will be accepted. Please submit WAEC results.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15672 USD / year

≈ 15672 USD / year
Out-of-State

10872 USD / year

≈ 10872 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10320 USD / year

≈ 10320 USD / year

Additional Details

Regional tuition: 10260 USD

Living costs

Murray

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Painting.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Murray

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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