Art+Design

At the University of Missouri–St. Louis, the department of Art+Design promotes a dynamic, forward-thinking program that pushes the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

The Department of Art+Design at the University of Missouri - St. Louis is dedicated to building and sustaining distinctive programs that are innovative, rigorous, synergistic, and significant to the University’s mission as a Missouri metropolitan public research university. The Department strives to develop analytical abilities and a critical consciousness in the visual arts among its students. It is dedicated to recruiting, retaining, and supporting a faculty engaged in research and creative activity, while encouraging partnerships and collaborative ventures with area arts institutions.

Our Programs

Choose from three dynamic concentrations in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree: Art Education, Graphic Design, and Studio Art. Join us at the forefront of art and design, and help shape the future of creativity.

Studio Practice

With a BFA in Studio Practice, explore and expand your creativity while learning about both contemporary and historical artistic techniques. Train under experienced artists and benefit from the St. Louis visual arts community. Studio Practice includes disciplines such as painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and digital arts in both 2D and 3D formats.

BFA in Studio Practice

Graphic Design

A BFA in Graphic Design offers a hands-on education, providing real-world experiences to help you build the portfolio you need for your career. Our courses cover a wide range of methods and mediums, focusing on design, typography, and illustration. Instruction also includes animation, user experience, and brand systems design, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the field.

BFA in Graphic Design

artist twisting wires in a paper mache piece

Art Education

Become a transformative art educator with a BFA in Art Education. This comprehensive program combines in-depth educational theory with an immersive visual arts experience, making it one of the most unique undergraduate art degrees in the region. Refine your artistic talents and gain the knowledge, tools, and techniques essential to thrive in today’s K–12 classroom.

BFA in Art Education

New Featured Courses

Study Abroad Courses in Italy

This summer, Professors Dr. Maureen Quigley and Jodi Kolpakov led two four-week game design courses in partnership with SRISA in Florence, Italy.

Through site visits and the study of art history, students explored game mechanics and created their own fully playable video games.

Explore their games here!

Gallery 210@FAB

An ever-changing exhibition space, the mission of Gallery 210@FAB (Fine Arts Building) is to serve UMSL students, faculty, staff, and the local arts neighborhoods in North County and St. Louis.

The gallery programs are intended to deepen the educational experience and contribute to the cultural climate of the campus and bordering communities.

Explore

During your studies, you'll collaborate with a global community of artists while immersed in St. Louis' vibrant cultural scene. You'll sharpen your artistic perspective and skills, preparing for challenges in the creative industry locally and internationally.

Why Art+Design?

student

Anna C.
Student, Graphic Design

"My experience in the graphic design program has pushed my creativity and problem-solving skills to a new level, equipping me with the tools to create impactful designs."

Meet our Students >

alumni

Brock S.
Alum, Studio Practice

"My time studying fine arts at UMSL was a game-changer. The professors were hands-on, and the freedom I had to create made all the difference in helping me find my artistic voice.”

Meet our Alumni >

faculty

Jodi K.
Faculty, Game Art

"I'm blown away by our students' creativity, dedication, and their drive to push the limits in their work. Their unique perspectives really show off the vibrant energy of our community."

Meet our Faculty >

In the News

UMSL alum Nicole DuFour with her book, The Star Dweller

UMSL Department of Art and Design Archives - UMSL Daily

2023 graphic design alum Nicole DuFour builds on passion for illustration with children’s book, ‘The Star Dweller’

DuFour created the book, which has been featured in The New York Times Book Review and at international book festivals, as her senior capstone project....

Aug 12

UMSL Department of Art and Design Archives - UMSL Daily