WCU Program: Art

Art

Part of: Art & Design Department

Offered as: Major, Minor

Degree: Bachelor of Arts

Related Areas of Study: Ceramics, Graphic Design, Jewelry, Painting

Part of: Art & Design Department

Offered as: Major, Minor

Degree: Bachelor of Arts

Related Areas of Study: Ceramics, Graphic Design, Jewelry, Painting

See the world through an artistic lens.

Western’s Art program builds a strong foundation in traditional media while encouraging creative exploration and contemporary expression. Students gain technical skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and more, guided by faculty who are practicing artists and experts.

Coursework is hands-on and career-focused, with opportunities to work on real-world projects, commissioned pieces, and community collaborations. Whether partnering with local businesses, exhibiting in regional galleries, or interning with professional artists, students graduate with a portfolio of experience and a clear path toward creative careers.

 

Art Requirements

Major
Minor

A major is your primary field of study, focusing on a specific subject like biology or business. This differs from a degree, which is the overall qualification you earn (for example, a bachelor’s degree). Your major determines the specialized courses you will take in college. To complete your degree, a major must be paired with a minor.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

A minor complements your major by allowing you to explore a secondary field of interest. It requires fewer courses than a major, making it a flexible way to broaden your knowledge, diversify your skills, or pursue a personal passion alongside your primary area of study.

Program Requirements Degree Plan

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

The Western Colorado Foundation offers scholarships specifically for this program. Explore eligibility requirements and funding opportunities.

Explore Scholarships

General Western Scholarships

Western Colorado University offers merit—and need-based scholarships, recognizing achievement, financial need, and special talents.

Explore Scholarships
1

Top Skills

Technical and Artistic Skills
Conceptual Thinking Skills
Critical Thinking
Professional and Career Skills
Soft Skills
Strong Work Ethic

2

Career Pathways

Fine Art Career Pathways
Studio Artist
Ilustrator
Art Educator
Museum or Gallery Curator
Art Conservator/Restorer

Latest News

  • Tina Butterfield, assistant professor of art, discusses a painting with senior Silas McDonough in the painting studio of Quigley Hall.

    Professor Tina Butterfield Brings a Touch of Humanities to Leadership After WICHE Academy

    Today, most colleges and universities are led by people trained in education, business, and the sciences. But an effort to bring more faculty from the…
    Read More
  • Western’s Art & Design Department Chair Chosen for Prestigious Fellowship

    Western’s Art & Design Department Chair Chosen for Prestigious Fellowship

    Training humanities faculty for leadership GUNNISON, Colorado: Western Art & Design Department Chair and Professor Tina Butterfield was one of only eight people from across…
    Read More
  • Western Earns Accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission

    Western Earns Accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission

    Recognition demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence Western Colorado University is excited to announce that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) voted at its July 18…
    Read More

Faculty & Staff

Tina Butterfield, MFA

Professor of Art; Art & Design Department Chair

Mayela Cardenas, MFA

Professor of Art

S. Chase Hutchison, MFA

Professor of Art

Anders Johnson, MFA

Associate Professor of Art

Emily Loehle, MFA

Lecturer in Art

Cierra Rohrbaugh, MFA

Instructor of Art

Art & Design Department

Department Chairperson

Contact Information

970.943.3093
970.943.2329

Contact Location

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

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