female student working with the ceramic wheel

Art and Design

Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, our program is devoted to the development of concepts, attitudes and skills in the visual arts within a broad university curriculum of liberal arts orientation. There are four objectives: professional training of artists and scholars in chosen areas of specialization, preparation of art educators, elective study for students in all areas of the university, and service to the local communities as a source of cultural enrichment.

Careers in Art & Design

  • Graphic Designer
  • Artist
  • Producer
  • Publisher
  • Marketing Coordinator
  • Photographer

Potential Salary

Median Salary $52,910

The median annual wage for Craft and Fine Artists in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Art & Design Degrees at MSU

Studio Art, Bachelor of Fine Arts 

The Art BFA is a professional degree devoted to the development of concepts, knowledge and skills in the visual arts within a broad liberal arts framework that prepares students to become successful studio artists. Students have the opportunity to concentrate on intensive work in several areas of art and art history, along with general studies. Studio specializations are offered in ceramics, drawing, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. 

Studio Art, Bachelor of Arts

The Art BA offers a focus in studio art providing a broad foundation of knowledge and skills. Students study several areas of art and art history and specialize in one area for more intensive study. Studio specializations include ceramics, drawing, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. 

Art, Bachelor of Arts

The Art BA offers a focus in studio art providing a broad foundation of knowledge and skills. Students study several areas of art and art history and specialize in one area for more intensive study. Studio specializations include ceramics, drawing, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. 

Art Studio, Minor

Art Studio offers a foundation of knowledge and skills in the arts and allows for broad choice of study areas and/or more intensive study of one medium. Students take courses in ceramics, drawing, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture.

Graphic Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with an emphasis in graphic design is devoted to the development of concepts, knowledge, and skills needed for a career in graphic design and related fields. This degree focuses on the conceptual, visual, and technical skills needed to enter the design profession with confidence.

Graphic Design, Certificate

The certificate in graphic design provides a beginning- to intermediate-level experience in the theory and methods of print-based and screen-based forms of visual communication. 

Art History, Bachelor of Arts

Art history majors learn to look carefully, analyze and evaluate information, and produce research-informed narratives that clarify why art matters. Students learn about major movements, artists, and artworks in relation to their sociocultural contexts.

Art History, Minor

Art history minor supports any number of majors as students learn to look carefully, analyze information, and produce original research that clarifies why art matters. Courses provide a chronological overview of the history of world art and opportunities for obtaining real-world experience.

Art Teaching, Bachelor of Science

Art Education is dedicated to preparing passionate artists for careers as Kindergarten through high school educators while fostering the development of conceptual understanding, attitudes, and skills in the visual arts within a liberal arts-focused university curriculum.

Art, Master of Arts

Art MA emphasizes specialized involvement in the student's chosen studio area – ceramics, drawing, graphic design, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, or sculpture. Most students focus on the research and development of creative work that culminates in a public exhibition or presentation. 

Female student preparing print making slide

Design Labs and Studios

Our facilities allow for student learning, creativity, exploration, and collaboration.

Male student drawing at table

University Art Galleries

Minnesota State Mankato has two art galleries featuring rotating works by students, faculty, and professional artists.

Learn More About

Art and Design Scholarships

The Department of Art & Design has several scholarships which students can apply for on an annual basis.

Student Organizations

Students have the opportunity to join a variety of student clubs that build community and enrich the educational experience. 

Related Programs

female writing in a notebook with laptop computer and pencils nearby

Creative Writing

The Creative Writing program allows students to develop their storytelling skills, enhance their imagination, and express their unique voice while exploring various genres and receiving constructive feedback.

Male student holding up a camera looking through the finder with other tech equipment around.

Film and Media Studies

Students in Film Studies look at all aspects of film and media, including aesthetic, creative, critical, cultural, technical, and theoretical perspectives.

Student with microphone being filmed in front of a mural painting

Communication and Media

The Communication and Media program equips students with critical thinking, digital literacy, and global awareness, preparing them to be ethical and socially responsible communicators, advocates, and storytellers in a dynamic world.

professor helping two students with artifacts for a museum

Museum Studies

The Museum Studies certificate program offers a comprehensive exploration of museum theory and practice in a dynamic global context, emphasizing technology's integral role, innovative educational and exhibition models, and the museum's potential as a catalyst for social change, welcoming students with diverse interests across various museum types and exhibition opportunities.

Art and Design Department

College of

Humanities and Social Sciences

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.

Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences