Students in the Art program at St. Edward's University have opportunities to explore the world of art while developing a core foundation of knowledge in design, drawing and art history.
Work with professors whose expertise will help you to grow creatively and become a more fine-tuned professional. You'll work one-on-one with a professor to build a portfolio of work which will showcase your ability to employers and graduate schools.
Students have unique opportunities to immerse themselves in visual culture because of the proximity of St. Edward's to Austin's vibrant art scene. Through the programming of the Fine Arts Gallery and unique course offerings, student are exposed to a variety of visiting artists and lecturers, exciting exhibitions on campus and exhibits and events in the local arts community.
Many students select this degree to prepare for a career in the arts or graduate study in studio art, art education, art history and curatorial studies.
Our distinguished faculty members are scholar-practitioners with years of experience and creative passions of their own. They stay active in their fields and bring their expertise to the classroom. The Art program faculty have submitted works of art for exhibition and national awards.
"I teach my students by providing context to the world of art — from the availability of materials to market strategies, from the voice of the individual to the goals of society. I encourage young people to study with these much larger issues in mind. However, I also believe that the study of art must come back to the object itself."
— Mary K. Brantl, PhD, Associate Professor of Art History
"Beyond providing young people with technical know-how, I hope to open their minds to new ideas and successful approaches to problem solving, brainstorming techniques and experimenting without reservation."
— Hollis Hammonds, Associate Professor of Art, Chair of Visual Studies
"I encourage them to seek opportunities that challenge them artistically, both in and outside of the classroom. This reinforcement of their talent makes a precious connection between theory and practice."
— Alexandra Robinson, Assistant Professor of Art, Director of Fine Arts Gallery
"I view myself as a facilitator, guiding students through paths that will lead to a lifetime of creative expression and critical response. My goal is that each student leaves my class with increased understanding of how to express their ideas clearly in three-dimensional forms, using technical skills, cogent thought processes, and an awareness of context. Ultimately, I want to provide students with a solid framework where they develop skill, engage, reflect, expand, and examine their understanding of art."
— Tammie Rubin, Assistant Professor of Art, Sculpture and Ceramics
With a Bachelor of Arts in Art, you’ll have the practical and professional experience needed for many creative fields. Recent graduates have also earned grants for artistic projects and been accepted to studio residency programs.
Students may also participate in art projects on campus. For example, six students in an installation art class with professor Alexandra Robinson created an interactive art installation for high-school students visiting campus.
St. Edward's University brings in artists to further enhance students' experience by exposing them to high-quality art and individuals who are active in the field.
Past visiting artists include:
Our internship program acquaints junior and senior-level students with the practical experience of engaging with artists who work in studios and art professionals, gallerists and curators in the workplace.
Students who wish to earn an Art minor must take the following coursework, totaling 24 hours, with at least 9 hours of upper-division coursework.
Students select four elective courses, with at least one elective in Art History I, Art History II, Drawing II or Watercolor I.
For more information about applicable coursework, please consult the undergraduate bulletin.
