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Explore Art & Design

On Our Side of the Mountains
1

Small Classes

Our 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures you’ll know your professors and peers on a first-name basis and get the personalized attention you need to succeed.

2

Hands-On Learning

We prioritize going beyond the classroom and gaining real-world experiences in your field to jumpstart your career and life after college.

The Western Art & Design Experience

Develop Core Skills

Design and drawing are the building blocks of all art. With these mediums mastered, you’ll bring your visions to life in all forms.

Campus Gallery

Western’s Quigley Gallery showcases the work of both professional artists and students each month.

Studio Access

Quigley Hall features a darkroom, printing lab, and studio rooms for various art forms with after hours access.

Subscribe to Art & Design at Western

Want to learn more about Western’s art and design degree programs? Sign up to explore our degree offerings, small class advantages, expert faculty, and hands-on experiences both in the studio and beyond. From gallery exhibitions to collaborative projects, Western is one of the art schools in Colorado that gives you the tools to build a successful creative career.

By filling out this form, you’ll also connect with one of our friendly admissions counselors, who are ready to answer your questions and support you on your college journey, no matter where you are in the process.

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Explore Our Programs

Go to Art Major
A student is seated at a potter's wheel and starts forming a pot with clay.

Art Major

Explore artistic mediums, develop your creative voice, and build a strong portfolio in your chosen discipline.

Go to Art Major
Go to Graphic Design Major
A graphic design student trims the edges of a poster she made to get ready for a class critique.

Graphic Design Major

Combine creativity and technology to pursue careers in design, branding, and digital media.

Go to Graphic Design Major

Art Degree Emphasis Options

If you choose to major in art, you will select an emphasis to concentrate your degree in. A major emphasis dives deeper into a specific interest within your major. It allows you to focus on a particular area of study, replacing the need for a separate minor.

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Western

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Our Unbeatable Location

With over 2 million acres of public land, an extensive trail system, and Crested Butte Mountain Resort just 35 minutes from campus, Western offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and hands-on learning.

Two students wearing pink cowboy hats ride a tandem townie bike down main street and bring joy to community members during the Homecoming parade.

Our Close-Knit Community

Western and Gunnison are known for their strong sense of community. The people here are genuinely welcoming and supportive, creating an environment where you can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging.

Professor Dave Erbe points his ski pole uphill in front of his backcountry skiing class. Mount Crested Butte is seen in the background.

Our Class Environment

At Western, it’s easy to build meaningful relationships with professors both inside and outside the classroom. With an average class size of 17, you’ll work closely with your professors and have your education personalized to you.

Visit Campus

The best way to understand if Western is the right place for you is by visiting! We offer a variety of visit experiences designed to accommodate wherever you may be in the college decision-making process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Art & Design Department

Contact Information

Contact Location

Western Colorado University
Quigley Hall 202
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231