Art & Design at WOU

Western Oregon University’s Art & Design program thrives on small class sizes, personalized support, and individual attention. Together we build the skills and creative thinking that guide a life of communication and expression.

This is a caring and welcoming community where fine art and visual communication are interconnected. Whether you’re just beginning college, transferring from another school, or coming back after some time away, our program is designed for you.

The Art & Design course schedule for 2021 – 2022 includes options for in-person, online, and hybrid classes.

Areas of study

We regularly offer courses in:

• Graphic design
• Drawing & illustration
• Video & animation
• Painting
• Ceramics
• Printmaking
• Sculpture
• Art history
• Digital images & photography
• Web design
• Print design
• Other special topics

Degree options in Art & Design

• Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art & Design is a flexible degree that expands your creative skillset and lets you choose from a wide range of courses.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art & Design goes further in depth, with additional studio courses and art history.
• Visual Communication Design Concentration is a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art & Design that focuses on graphic design and digital media. Available starting fall 2022.
• Art & Design Education Concentration is a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art & Design that combines studio art & design with Education courses, leading to licensure for K-12 teaching. Perfect if you want to teach Art & Design in K-12 schools. Available starting fall 2022. Very specific academic advising is required (contact Jodie Garrison: garrisonj@wou.edu).

The Art & Design program is broad and flexible, but also allows for specialization. It’s well-suited to serve as a four-year experience, or as a continuation of community college studies. Each degree path blends hands-on studio work with key knowledge of context.

As a student, you’ll first build a solid base in design fundamentals and art history. Then, you’ll explore a wide variety of ideas and techniques. Next, you’ll choose your favorite topics and skills to study in-depth. And finally, you’ll cap your experience with valuable professional preparation.

Art + Visual Communication Design = Art & Design

In the past, Art and Visual Communication Design were two different majors. Now, they are combined into the Art & Design major. Visual Communication Design is an optional concentration within Art & Design. The information in the videos about Art and Visual Communication Design on this page is still relevant, except for the names of the degree options. We’ll post an updated video here soon.

Minors in Art & Design

WOU students majoring in other departments can opt for a Minor in Art & Design or a Minor in Art History. There’s also a Minor in Art History for Art & Design Majors.