Professional Science Masters in Biotechnology
The PSM in Biotechnology at Saint Mary's is a two-year, 40-credit hybrid program de...
B.A. in Art Practice
Moraga, California
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Art Practice at Saint Mary's College is a studio-focused degree that offers a broad engagement with the visual arts within a liberal arts context. It cultivates both technical proficiency and conceptual understanding across a diverse range of media. The program emphasizes the development of a unique artistic voice, critical self-assessment, and an understanding of art's place within a larger historical and cultural framework. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of traditional and contemporary art forms, and the program is committed to developing creative problem-solving skills alongside technical mastery.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.A. in Art Practice is comprehensive, blending foundational skills with opportunities for specialization. Core courses often include "Introduction to Studio Art" and "Basic Design," providing essential visual language and technical skills. Students then explore various mediums through electives, which may include "Digital Photography," "Animation: Stop Motion," "Printmaking: Screenprinting," "Painting: Acrylic and Watercolor," "Drawing: Life and Figure Drawing," "Designing for the Web," "3D Digital Design and Fabrication," and "Experimental Film/Video." The curriculum also integrates art history courses, such as "Western Art Survey" and "World Art: Non-Western," ensuring students understand the historical and theoretical contexts of art. The program culminates in an "Art Practice Capstone" which involves mounting a cohesive exhibition of artwork and producing a comprehensive thesis document discussing the ideas, techniques, and influences in their work.
Research Focus: While primarily a studio-based program, the B.A. in Art Practice at Saint Mary's College incorporates a significant research component, particularly through its emphasis on conceptualization, art history, and critical analysis. Students are expected to "evaluate clearly different forms of art by other artists through research and conceptualization of core art and critical sources and through class writings and discussions." They develop the ability to "articulate their artwork's content and intention and visually manifest those ideas" and "demonstrate an understanding of their place within a larger art historical context." The culminating senior capstone requires students to conduct research for their exhibition and develop a thesis document, showcasing their ability to engage in critical inquiry and contextualize their artistic practice within broader art historical and theoretical frameworks.
Industry Engagement: Saint Mary's College fosters industry engagement for its Art Practice students by preparing them for professional careers in the arts and design. The program's focus on mounting a "cohesive exhibition of their artwork" and producing an "invaluable portfolio for both career and graduate school applications" directly aligns with professional practices in the art world. Students benefit from a community of shared inquiry, engaging in critiques that simulate professional feedback. Opportunities like visiting artist programs, lectures, and gallery exhibitions (such as those at the College Museum of Art and Moreau Art Galleries) provide exposure to contemporary artists and the broader art community. The curriculum also offers electives in areas like "Designing for the Web" and "The Art of Game Design," which have direct industry applications.
Global Perspective: The B.A. in Art Practice at Saint Mary's College integrates a global perspective by exposing students to diverse artistic traditions and cultural contexts. The curriculum includes courses like "World Art: Non-Western" and aims for students to "demonstrate foundational knowledge of contemporary and historical artists, particularly those working in their preferred medium," which inherently involves a global scope. The liberal arts framework encourages students to consider art within social, cultural, religious, aesthetic, and technological contexts worldwide. Furthermore, Saint Mary's College offers study abroad opportunities, including programs in places like Rome, which can provide art students with direct exposure to historically significant global art sites, broadening their understanding of art's role across different cultures and periods.
Location
Moraga, California
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 59251
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
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 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Saint Mary's College of California is dedicated to making high-quality education accessible and affordable for students from around the world. To support this commitment, the college offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships at the time of admission no separate application is required. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores (if submitted), extracurricular involvement, and personal accomplishments.
International Excellence Scholarship: This competitive award recognizes exceptional international students who exhibit outstanding academic performance and global leadership. Students selected for the International Excellence Scholarship may receive additional financial support beyond standard merit scholarships. Selection is based on a holistic review of the application, essays, and achievements.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While financial aid for international students is limited, some need-based assistance may be available on a case-by-case basis. Students are encouraged to communicate directly with the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid to explore all available options.
External Scholarships and Sponsorships: International students are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships from global organizations, private foundations, and government-sponsored programs. The college provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for third-party funding opportunities that can supplement institutional aid.
Graduates of Saint Mary's College of California's B.A. in Art Practice are highly creative, adaptable, and skilled individuals. Their rigorous training in diverse artistic mediums, combined with a strong emphasis on conceptual development and critical analysis, enables them to think innovatively and express complex ideas visually.
Graphic Designer: Creates visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers, for advertisements, websites, magazines, and product packaging.
Multimedia Artist & Animator: Creates images and special effects for various forms of media, including film, television, video games, and web content, often using specialized software.
Illustrator: Creates drawings, paintings, or digital images for books, magazines, advertisements, packaging, or other media, often specializing in a particular style or subject matter.
Web Designer/UI/UX Designer: Designs and develops the visual layout and user experience of websites and applications, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and user-friendliness.
Fine Artist (Painter, Sculptor, Printmaker): Creates original works of art for sale, exhibition in galleries, or private commissions, often maintaining a studio practice and promoting their work.
Art Educator/Teacher: Instructs students in various art forms and art history in K-12 schools (may require additional certification), community centers, or private studios.
Museum Technician/Exhibit Preparator: Works in museums and galleries to prepare, install, and maintain art exhibits, requiring knowledge of art handling, conservation, and display techniques.
Photographer (Commercial/Fine Art): Captures images for various purposes, including advertising, journalism, portraiture, or fine art, using digital or traditional cameras and editing software.
Fashion Designer (with focus on visual design): Creates original designs for clothing, accessories, or footwear, often focusing on sketching, fabric selection, and understanding trends, though specific fashion design programs are more direct for this.
Art Director: Responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie/television productions, overseeing designers and artists to create a cohesive artistic vision.
