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Western's School of the Arts

Art, Design, Film, Music, & Theatre
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1

Small Classes

With small classes and close mentorship, you’ll collaborate directly with faculty-artists who know you by name and guide you as you grow your craft.

2

Hands-On Learning

At the School of the Arts, your learning extends beyond studios, rehearsal halls, and stages; into galleries, performances, and community projects that prepare you for a thriving creative career.

  • A student stands while working on her vibrant oil painting.
  • Student actors dressed in rain coats and ponchos stand on and around a wooden platform in the studio theatre as they sing together for the final scene of Western Theatre Co's production of 'LOVE'.
  • The Western Jazz band plays under ambient lights at the Almont Resort.
  • A student is seated at a potter's wheel and starts forming a pot with clay.
  • A member of the Western drumline plays the bass drum on the field at half-time.
  • A graphic design student trims the edges of a poster she made to get ready for a class critique.

Request Information About Western's School of the Arts

Want to learn more about the School of the Arts? Fill out the form to familiarize yourself with our degree offerings, small class perks, expert faculty, and hands-on experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

From performance opportunities to local collaborations, see how Western can prepare you for a successful creative career and future.

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

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The School of the Arts Experience

Students bring their creativity to life with performance opportunities, practical training, studio access, and hands-on learning.

Cross-Disciplinary

Collaborate with students and faculty from across all arts disciplines—working together on shows, multimedia projects, installations, and more.

A student paints an abstract piece on a canvas inside a classroom.

Learn By Doing

Students bring their creativity to life through performance opportunities, practical training, studio access, and other hands-on experiences.

The drumline marches down Gunnison's main street during the Homecoming parade.

Personalization

The School of the Arts provides a personalized education with customizable degree paths and mentorship tailored to each student’s artistic goals.

Explore Our Programs

Go to Art Program
A student takes a picture of wildflowers at sunrise on the East River Trail.

Art

Explore mediums, master technique, and build a strong portfolio.

Go to Art Program
Go to Design Program
A graphic design student stands in front of a class and gives them an overview of a poster she designed during a critique.

Graphic Design

Create through branding, digital media, and hands-on design.

Go to Design Program
Go to Film Program
A student operates a camera during a lighting demonstration for a film class.

Film

Share and tell powerful stories through visual media.

Go to Film Program
Go to Music Program
A student plays the saxaphone during practice with the jazz band in Kincaid Concert Hall.

Music

Shape your sound through performance and collaboration.

Go to Music Program
Go to Theatre Program
In a dramatically lit theater scene, Western students sing and dance while swinging from trapezes.

Theatre

Deliver unforgettable performances and explore real-world production.

Go to Theatre Program

Go Beyond the Classroom

Explore the unique hands-on learning experiences we offer students enrolled in the School of the Arts.

  • In a dramatically lit theater scene, Western students sing and dance while swinging from trapezes.

    Arts – Western Theatre Company

    Students in the Theatre Company grow their skills in acting, directing, playwriting, design, and stage management.
    Read More
  • Student plays the saxophone during practice with the jazz band

    Music – Ensembles

    Students explore their passions through ensembles, including opportunities to perform and create music.
    Read More
  • Art student taking a photo of a tree sculpture during the Pathfinder Magazine Submission Festival

    Art & CALL – Pathfinder Magazine

    Students collaborate to produce a real-world magazine, gaining hands-on experience in writing and publishing.
    Read More

Top 3 Reasons to Choose Western

Four students smile in front of Teocalli at sunrise making a W with their hands.

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.

"Transferring to Western gave me access to pursue my passions with invaluable one-on-one faculty assistance that I couldn't experience at a larger school. My professors care deeply about my individual experiences, and I've achieved goals that wouldn't be possible without their hands-on support. Western's tight-knit and caring environment has allowed me to take my skills to the next level."

Whit Perschke

Film Student
Whit Perschke
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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.

Schedule A Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western’s School of the Arts unique?

What kind of performance or exhibition opportunities will I have?

What does “interdisciplinary” really mean here?

Will I be prepared for a career in the arts?

We're Here to Help!

Still have questions about Western and if it’s right for you? Connect with our friendly Admissions Team or schedule a visit!

  • Chase Watts smiles at the camera.

    Chase Watts

    Director of Admissions

  • Alissa Bevan

    Alissa Bevan

    Associate Director of Admissions

  • Headshot of Brice Koval.

    Brice Koval

    Admissions & Recruitment Counselor - STEM

  • Kelsey Kusnetzky

    Kelsey Kusnetzky

    Enrollment Communications Strategist

  • Vadood Ziroki

    Vadood Ziroki

    Admissions & Recruitment Counselor

School of the Arts

Interim Dean

Administrative Assistant II

Contact Information

970.943.3093

Contact Location

Quigley Hall 202