Art and Design
Find the support and resources you need to hone your creative process.
As an art and design major at Alma, you’ll have the flexibility to align your classes with your passions – from graphic design to painting, sculpture or art history. Regardless of the path you choose, you will:
- Build problem-solving and technical skills that will prepare you for success in the creative fields.
- Develop your practice in our facilities, which include individual studios for upper-level students.
- Access opportunities to exhibit and publish your work from your first year on campus.
At A Glance
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12:1Student-to-faculty ratio
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18Average class size
Possible Careers
Find the support and resources you need to hone your creative process.
As an art and design major at Alma, you’ll have the flexibility to align your classes with your passions – from graphic design to painting, sculpture or art history. Regardless of the path you choose, you will:
- Build problem-solving and technical skills that will prepare you for success in the creative fields.
- Develop your practice in our facilities, which include individual studios for upper-level students.
- Access opportunities to exhibit and publish your work from your first year on campus.
Degree Options
There are two bachelor’s degrees offered in the art and design major:
- The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art and Design – This degree is for students interested in pursuing the visual field after graduation. It’s a 60 credit major with a breadth of knowledge across art and design disciplines with two selectable specializations: (1) Drawing and Painting (2) Design. As part of the B.F.A. program, students explore foundational and advanced techniques in visual expression while developing a professional portfolio. Whether you’re planning to become a practicing artist, illustrator, or creative professional, this degree provides the skills and experience needed to thrive in the arts. Located in Michigan, the program offers access to a vibrant creative community, faculty mentorship, and exhibition opportunities both on and off campus.
- Bachelor of Arts – This degree is for students interested in experiencing a vast array of art and design making and thinking. It’s 36 credits and is often paired with another major. The B.A. program is ideal for students who want a flexible, interdisciplinary approach to their education—allowing them to explore creativity while pursuing interests in other academic areas. This degree offers a strong foundation in visual arts and design thinking, preparing graduates for careers in creative industries or further study. Located in Michigan, the program connects students with a supportive arts community and diverse professional opportunities across the state.
Get to Know Art and Design
Meet the Faculty
Internships
We strongly encourage art and design students to include an internship in their academic plans.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available to talented students in art and design.
Explore the Curriculum
Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.
Creative curriculum and the space to let your ideas flourish.
Rapidly evolving digital fields, the growth of public arts programs and the emergence of web-based galleries have all reshaped the landscape of art and design.
- Potential career paths for visual arts graduates include animation, ceramics, drawing, graphic design, illustration, painting, 3D modeling, art history, and arts management — to name just a few possible focus areas.
- Our curriculum prepares students for work in a range of exciting tracks.
- If you’re interested in animation or graphic novels, you can study abroad at our cousin school, Duncan of Jordan Stone College School of Art and Design in Scotland during your junior year.
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Student Opportunities
Art is a highly competitive field. However, thanks to our excellent facilities, innovative curriculum and dedicated faculty, Alma College students graduate with the skills and network they need to pursue graduate-level study and professional work.
Our alumni are engaged in many aspects of the visual arts — from commercial design to fine art — and many play an active role in opening doors for current students.
Creative Spaces
The Clack Art Center provides exceptional studios and classrooms for art students with 24/7 access.
Flora Kirsch Beck Gallery
The Clack Art Center is the home of the sole professional art gallery in Gratiot County. The gallery hosts several exhibitions and special events every academic year. All events feature closing receptions and chances to interact with the artists and are free to attend
Get Connected
Student Organizations
In our 100+ student organizations, you’ll find numerous ways to celebrate and express your individuality, collaborate with artistically-minded peers and get inspired by the creativity happening on campus.
Explore
Student & Alumni Spotlights
No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stories, in their own words, below.
The Art and Design department offers remarkable artistic opportunities for students of all studies. Its expert professors have led me to endeavor to both try new mediums of art and drastically improve on prior creative interests. Alma's resources have helped me to look forward to achieving a skillful career in photography.
The Art and Design department offers remarkable artistic opportunities for students of all studies. Its expert professors have led me to endeavor to both try new mediums of art and drastically improve on prior creative interests. Alma's resources have helped me to look forward to achieving a skillful career in photography.