Master of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Western Illinois University offers a compre...
B.F.A. in Art
Macomb, Illinois
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Art program at Western Illinois University (WIU) is designed for students seeking an intensive and specialized education in the visual arts. This program emphasizes both the development of technical skills and the cultivation of a personal artistic vision. It prepares students for professional careers in art by offering a rigorous curriculum that balances studio practice with theoretical studies, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for various artistic and creative professions.
Curriculum: The B.F.A. in Art curriculum at WIU is structured to provide students with a deep understanding of artistic techniques and concepts. Students begin with foundational courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, and design, and then progress to advanced coursework in their chosen area of concentration, such as ceramics, digital media, printmaking, or graphic design. The program also includes art history courses that contextualize students' work within broader artistic movements and traditions. Additionally, students are required to complete a senior capstone project or exhibition, showcasing their accumulated skills and artistic achievements.
Research Focus: Research within the B.F.A. in Art program at WIU centers on both creative exploration and scholarly inquiry. Students and faculty engage in research that investigates new artistic techniques, explores contemporary art practices, and examines the intersection of art with cultural and social issues. This focus allows students to push the boundaries of traditional art forms and engage with cutting-edge developments in the visual arts. Faculty members contribute to the field through their own artistic projects, exhibitions, and scholarly publications, providing students with insights into current trends and practices.
Industry Engagement: The B.F.A. in Art program emphasizes practical experience and professional development through various industry engagement opportunities. Students participate in internships, work with local galleries, and take part in art fairs and exhibitions. The program fosters connections with art professionals and organizations, offering students the chance to gain real-world experience and build valuable networks. Guest lectures, workshops, and studio visits with established artists and industry experts further enhance students' understanding of the art world and prepare them for successful careers.
Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Art program at WIU incorporates a global perspective by exposing students to diverse artistic traditions and practices from around the world. Students explore international art movements, cross-cultural influences, and global issues through coursework and research. The program also offers opportunities for international study and exchange programs, allowing students to experience different cultural contexts and artistic environments. This global perspective enriches students' creative practice and prepares them to engage with a worldwide art community.
Location
Macomb, Illinois
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 20750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $50
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 73 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 49 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 100.
Western Illinois University (WIU) offers several scholarships to international students to assist them in financing their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, talents, leadership, and other criteria.
Presidential Scholarships: These scholarships are among the most prestigious at WIU and are awarded to academically exceptional students. They cover a significant portion of tuition costs and are renewable for up to eight semesters.
International Commitment Scholarships: WIU offers a range of international commitment scholarships to incoming international undergraduate students. These scholarships are based on academic merit and are available at varying levels of funding.
International Transfer Scholarships: Transfer students from international institutions can apply for transfer scholarships to help fund their education at WIU. The scholarship amounts may vary based on academic achievement.
Global Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding international students. They are awarded based on academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.
International Peace Scholarship: WIU offers this scholarship to female international students who have a strong commitment to international understanding and peace. It's part of the P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund.
College and Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within WIU offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by department.
Foundation Scholarships: WIU's Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships are often based on specific majors or criteria defined by donors.
External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and through international organizations, to help finance their education at WIU.
Fulbright Scholar Program: While not directly administered by WIU, international students can apply for the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program, which provides funding for academic and cultural exchange opportunities in the United States.
To apply for scholarships at WIU, international students typically need to submit an application for admission and a separate scholarship application, if required. Deadlines and eligibility criteria can vary.
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Art program at Western Illinois University (WIU) equips graduates with a robust set of skills and experiences, opening doors to various career paths in the visual arts and related fields.
Professional Artist: Graduates can pursue careers as professional artists, creating original works in various media such as painting, sculpture, digital art, and mixed media. They may exhibit their work in galleries, museums, and art festivals, and engage in solo and group exhibitions to build their reputation and reach a wider audience.
Graphic Designer: With expertise in visual communication, B.F.A. graduates can work as graphic designers, creating visual content for print and digital media. They design marketing materials, branding elements, websites, and more, working for design firms, corporations, or as freelancers.
Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual aspects of creative projects in industries such as advertising, publishing, and media. They manage design teams, coordinate visual elements, and ensure that artistic concepts align with project objectives.
Curator: Curators manage art collections and organize exhibitions in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. They are responsible for selecting and interpreting artworks, designing exhibitions, and engaging with the public to promote artistic and educational initiatives.
Art Educator: Graduates can become art educators, teaching art at schools, community centers, or art institutions. They help students develop their artistic skills, understand art history, and appreciate the role of art in society.
Illustrator: As illustrators, graduates create visual representations for books, magazines, advertisements, and other media. They work on illustrating narratives, concepts, and ideas for a variety of clients and projects.
Museum Educator: Museum educators develop and implement educational programs for museums and galleries. They create engaging learning experiences for visitors, lead tours, and conduct workshops to enhance public understanding of art and culture.
Art Therapist: With a focus on therapeutic practices, art therapists use creative processes to help individuals explore and express their emotions. They work in various settings, including mental health facilities, rehabilitation centers, and private practice.
Gallery Manager: Gallery managers oversee the daily operations of art galleries, including organizing exhibitions, managing artwork inventory, and handling client interactions. They ensure the smooth running of gallery activities and promote the gallery’s mission.
Freelance Artist or Designer: Many graduates choose to work as freelance artists or designers, offering their services to various clients on a project-by-project basis. This career path allows for flexibility and creative freedom.
