BFA Fine Arts Programs in Ontario, California

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in Ontario, California

Pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts opens a career in studio art, creative education, and more. A BFA Fine Arts Degree provides intensive training in studio practice, art history, and professional development. Multiple education paths exist, from studio-intensive programs with specialized courses in painting, ceramics, sculpture, and digital art to programs that emphasize conceptual studies and public art.

About Ontario, California

Ontario, California is a dynamic city known for its rich community life and emerging arts scene. The city supports local cultural initiatives through its governmental bodies and cultural events. More detailed information about the city is available on the Ontario official website.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in Ontario, California

While Ontario itself has limited BFA programs, prospective students can explore high-quality options in nearby cities. Three notable institutions include:

  1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

    • Program: BFA in Art (Studio emphasis)
    • Specializations: Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, Printmaking, Digital Art
    • Unique Features: Emphasizes social engagement and public art through courses like Socially-engaged Art
    • Admission Requirements: Portfolio review required after lower-division courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Application deadlines are June 30 for the Fall term and November 30 for the Spring term.
    • Curriculum: Includes 36 lower-division units (Foundation Art, Art History) and 41 upper-division units (Advanced Studio, Professional Practices), culminating in a BFA Project exhibition.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 18111 Valley Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92407 – located in the eastern part of San Bernardino.
    • Distance: Approximately 15 miles from Ontario.
    • Program Details: More information is available on the CSUSB BFA Fine Arts page.

  2. University of California, Riverside (UCR)

    • Program: BFA in Visual Arts
    • Specializations: Studio practice and visual development
    • Unique Features: Strong focus on creative research and community engagement through the arts.
    • Admission Requirements: Typical prerequisites include a high school diploma, satisfactory academic performance, and a competitive portfolio.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 900 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92521 – situated in the educational district of Riverside.
    • Distance: Approximately 25 miles from Ontario.
    • Program Overview: Students develop technical skills and conceptual insight, preparing for diverse careers in art.

  3. University of Southern California (USC)

    • Program: BFA in Fine Arts
    • Specializations: Studio Art, Critical Studies, Design
    • Unique Features: A studio-intensive program with a focus on independent projects and professional portfolio development.
    • Admission Requirements: A portfolio submission of 10–15 artworks and a minimum GPA of 3.0 (competitive applicants often exceed this requirement).
    • Curriculum: Requires 88 core units in Art/Critical Studies plus 12 electives, culminating in a professional-quality portfolio and exhibition.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 3550 Trousdale Pkwy, Los Angeles, CA 90089 – located within the University Park area.
    • Distance: Approximately 60 miles from Ontario.
    • Program Details: For more details, visit the USC BFA program page.

Art Institutions and Galleries in Ontario, California

Ontario and its surrounding areas host notable art institutions that support the local arts community:

  • Ontario Museum of History and Art

    • Overview: Hosts exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies that enrich the local cultural landscape.
    • Neighborhood: Situated in downtown Ontario.
    • Website: Ontario Museum of History and Art

  • San Bernardino County Museum

    • Overview: Showcases regional art exhibitions and educational programs, offering insights into the art and culture of San Bernardino County.
    • Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Redlands.
    • Contact: (909) 798-8608 | [email protected]
    • Website: San Bernardino County Museum

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a BFA Fine Arts program include:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum age requirements (usually 18 or older)
  • A competitive portfolio demonstrating technical and conceptual skills
  • Entrance exams or interviews may be required, as seen in programs where portfolio review is a key component (e.g., CSUSB with a minimum GPA of 3.0).

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in California

State-specific requirements for a BFA in Fine Arts involve adherence to academic guidelines and accreditation standards. Prospective students should consider the following:

  • Regulatory Bodies and Resources:

  • Degree Information and Accreditation:

    • California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB):
      • Specializations include painting, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, digital art, advanced studio practices, and culminating in a BFA project exhibition.
    • University of Southern California (USC):
      • Offers a comprehensive curriculum with studio-intensive experiences leading to a professional-quality portfolio.
    • Both programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, which you can verify on the NASAD website.

  • Career Resources:

Get Started Today

The journey to earning a BFA in Fine Arts in Ontario, California, or nearby, is filled with exciting opportunities and pathways. With multiple program options, comprehensive curricula, and a wealth of supportive resources at the local, county, state, and federal levels, there is plenty of room to grow artistically and professionally. Prospective students are encouraged to take the next step by contacting a school directly through the inquiry forms on their official pages to begin their art education journey.