Art Radford University

Overview

The Art programme at Radford University offers a professional Bachelor of Fine Arts degree designed to prepare students for successful careers in the creative industries. This intensive course of study combines practical studio experience with theoretical knowledge to foster artistic growth and professional readiness.

Students can choose from specialised concentrations including Studio Art, Graphic Design, or Art Education with K-12 Teacher Licensure. Each pathway requires the successful completion of annual portfolio reviews conducted by expert faculty to ensure students meet high artistic standards before graduation.

The curriculum is structured around the REAL framework, ensuring a well-rounded education that covers expressive core skills and cultural analysis.

Why Art at Radford University?

The institution provides a supportive environment where students have access to dedicated studio spaces and modern digital facilities. Distinctive teaching features include annual faculty-led portfolio juries and a final senior exhibition that serves as a professional launchpad for graduating artists.

The programme is noted for its rigorous assessment process, which includes a mandatory exit review to ensure all graduates possess a high-quality professional portfolio. This focus on practical outcomes ensures that students are well-prepared for gallery representation or entry into competitive Master of Fine Arts programmes.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 22012 per year
• National fee: USD 22012 per year
• Local fee: USD 8698 per year

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

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• 2-Dimensional Art Foundations
• 3-Dimensional Art Foundations
• Computer Skills for the Fine Artist
• Drawing I
• Drawing II
• Art History Survey: Prehistory to Gothic
• Art History Survey: Renaissance to Contemporary
• Figure Drawing
• Drawing III
• Twentieth Century Art
• Studio Practice and Theory
• Senior Project and Exhibition
• Film and Philosophy
• Digital Photography
• History of Graphic Design
• Professional Writing
• Graphic Design
• Graphic Design Production Techniques
• Typography and Layout Design
• Creativity and Design
• 3D Computer Graphics
• Branding Design
• Graphic Design for the User Experience
• Digital Illustration
• Publication Design
• Packaging and 3-D Design
• Interactive Motion Graphics
• Portfolio Preparation and Studio Management for Graphic Designers
• Painting I
• Watercolor I
• Ceramics I
• Sculpture: Methods and Materials
• Art Outside the Western Tradition
• Psychology
• Elementary Art Education Theory and Practice
• Secondary Art Education Theory and Practice
• Clinical Experience in Art Education
• Human Development and Learning: Birth through Adolescence
• Professional Education
• Integration of Educational Technology
• Student Teaching: Grades K-12

Careers with Art

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles such as professional studio artists, graphic designers, and K-12 art educators. The programme also provides the necessary foundation for students seeking to enter Master of Fine Arts degrees or pursue careers in gallery management and digital media.

The Graphic Design concentration specifically equips students for the user experience and branding industries, while the Art Education track leads to state certification for teaching. Many alumni find employment in creative agencies, schools, and private studios across the region.