BFA Fine Arts Programs in Fontana, California

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in Fontana, California

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts is a specialized degree focusing on studio art practice and art education. This guide details various educational paths available through local and nearby art programs. Readers will learn about degree options, admission requirements, and the comprehensive curriculum offered by accredited art schools. Key topics include the diversity of studio art—such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, and digital fabrication—and the career opportunities that follow graduation. For career projections and job outlook data in fine arts, visit the BLS Fine Artists job outlook page.

About Fontana

Fontana, California, lies in San Bernardino County and is recognized for its rich cultural diversity and growing arts community. The City of Fontana promotes art through its Arts Commission, offering public art projects and cultural events. For more information about the city’s initiatives and resources, visit the City of Fontana official website. Local neighborhoods in Fontana host community events and creative workshops that support the emerging art scene.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in Fontana, California

Local options for a BFA in Fine Arts in Fontana are limited; however, several nearby accredited institutions offer high-quality fine arts education. The following programs are closest to Fontana:

  1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

    • Program: Studio Art (with specializations in Ceramics, Painting, Sculpture, and more)
    • Address: 18111 Von Karman Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92407 (approximately 20 miles from Fontana)
    • Neighborhood: Located in the greater San Bernardino area with a dynamic urban setting.
    • Program Details: Emphasizes foundation courses, art history seminars, and studio electives. Admission requirements include a portfolio review and pre-admission courses such as ART 1120-1160 and AH 1103/1104.
    • For more details, visit the CSUSB Catalog.

  2. University of Southern California (USC)

    • Program: Fine Arts (Studio)
    • Address: University Park, Los Angeles, CA 90089 (approximately 55 miles from Fontana)
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the culturally rich University Park district, USC offers a mix of traditional and innovative studio practices.
    • Program Details: Provides opportunities for self-generated independent projects and intensive portfolio development.
    • Visit the USC Catalogue for additional program information.

  3. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)

    • Program: Art (BFA/MFA)
    • Address: 24700 McBean Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355 (approximately 60 miles from Fontana)
    • Neighborhood: Located in Valencia, near the creative hub of Santa Clarita, CalArts is known for its mentorship-driven curriculum.
    • Program Details: Promotes interdisciplinary studies, including digital fabrication and socially-engaged art, with robust exhibition requirements.
    • More information is available on the CalArts Catalogue.

Art Institutions and Galleries in Fontana

While Fontana’s local arts resources are growing, several art organizations in and around the city provide additional opportunities for engagement and exhibition:

  • City of Fontana Arts Commission

    • Purpose: Promotes public art, cultural events, and arts education within Fontana.
    • Contact: (909) 350-7600
    • Website: Fontana Arts Commission

  • Fontana Arts Association

  • San Bernardino County Museum

    • Purpose: Hosts exhibitions and arts education programs across San Bernardino County.
    • Website: San Bernardino County Museum
    • Neighborhood: Located in San Bernardino, this institution serves as a major cultural resource near Fontana.

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Prospective students should meet several prerequisites before enrolling in a BFA Fine Arts program. Typical requirements include:

  • Educational Requirements: Completion of a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Portfolio Review: Submission of a portfolio showcasing artistic skills and creativity is essential.
  • Pre-Admission Courses: Some institutions require foundational coursework (e.g., ART 1120-1160, AH 1103/1104 at CSUSB).
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Certain programs may conduct interviews or standardized tests.
  • Minimum GPA: A competitive GPA (often around 3.0 in lower-division courses) is usually required.

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in California

Earning a BFA Fine Arts Degree in California involves meeting both institutional and state-specific criteria. State-level requirements and resources include:

  • City-Level Oversight:

  • County-Level Oversight:

    • San Bernardino County Arts Council

  • State-Level Oversight:

    • California Department of Education
    • California Arts Council
      • Purpose: Funds statewide arts initiatives and cultural programs.
      • Contact: (916) 322-6551
      • Website: California Arts Council

  • Federal Oversight:

Degree Information and Curriculum

California institutions offer various BFA specializations such as Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Ceramics, Glass, Jewelry and Metals, Illustration, and Entertainment Art/Animation. Specific admission requirements include:

  • Portfolio Review: Required for admission at CSUSB, CSULB, and CSUF.
  • Pre-Admission Courses: Foundational courses (ART 1120-1160, AH 1103/1104) are common prerequisites.
  • Core Curriculum: Includes foundation courses (2D/3D design, drawing, creative technology), art history seminars (e.g., AH 3250/4250 at CSUSB), and studio electives (15 units intermediate and 12 units advanced).
  • Exhibition Mandates: Programs often require a BFA Project (e.g., ART 5510 at CSUSB) and subsequent exhibitions.
  • Accreditation: Verified by bodies such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Get Started Today

Fontana offers a unique entry point into the world of Fine Arts with access to excellent nearby programs and a vibrant local arts community. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these options further, prepare portfolios, and contact their chosen institution using the provided forms. Start your journey today and take the next step toward a fulfilling career in the arts.