Two students sit on grass and watercolor paint a scene with their canvases on their laps.

Painting Degree

Part of: Art Program, School of the Arts

Offered as: Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Degree

Related Areas of Study: Art Degree, Ceramics Degree, Graphic Design Degree, Jewelry Degree, Photography Degree, Studio Art Degree, Sculpture Degree

Part of: Art Program, School of the Arts

Offered as: Major Emphasis

Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Degree

Related Areas of Study: Art Degree, Ceramics Degree, Graphic Design Degree, Jewelry Degree, Photography Degree, Studio Art Degree, Sculpture Degree

Pursue a painting degree through a BFA in Art with an Emphasis in Painting and turn passion into masterpieces.

Western Colorado University’s painting degree program offers students a focused track in studio painting, allowing you to develop your artistic voice through hands-on instruction and mentorship. The painting degree program curriculum includes courses in oil painting, watercolor, and mixed media, emphasizing both traditional skills and innovative techniques as you progress to advanced classes.

Because the program is dedicated to your professional growth as a painter, you’ll have opportunities to interact with visiting professional artists and attend field trips to Denver, Taos, and Santa Fe. As part of our painting degree program, students work closely with faculty mentors to refine their techniques and build a strong portfolio for graduate study or professional careers in the arts. You’ll also gain real-world experience through internships with local galleries, art centers, and professional artists, as well as community class projects such as murals and commissioned paintings.

Beyond technical skills, the program encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and artistic interpretation, helping you develop a unique artistic voice and vision. With hands-on experiences both in and out of the classroom, you’ll graduate with the knowledge and confidence to pursue your artistic goals and a professional career as a painter. Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Apply to our painting degree program and begin your journey as a visual artist.

FAQs:

What can you do with a painting degree?

Western’s  painting degree program can lead to careers as a professional artist, illustrator, art educator, gallery curator, or creative entrepreneur. Many graduates also pursue MFA programs.

Which degree is best for painting?

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with an Emphasis in Painting is considered the most comprehensive painting degree program for students serious about building a career in the visual arts.

Is a painting degree program worth it?

Yes. Our painting degree program provides the mentorship, studio access, and critical feedback necessary to grow technically and conceptually as an artist.

Experiential Education

Painting Requirements

Emphasis

An 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. By tailoring your coursework, an emphasis equips you with specialized knowledge and skills to better prepare you for career opportunities or advanced studies in your chosen field. 

Scholarships

Scholarships by Department

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

General Western Scholarships

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

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Top Skills

Problem-Solving
Effective Communication
Composition and Design
Painting Techniques
Artistic Vision and Content Development
Interdisciplinary Thinking
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Career Pathways

Fine Artist
Muralist
Illustrator
Concept Artist
Art Director
Exhibition Curator

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Faculty & Staff

Art Program

Contact Information

Contact Location

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

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