BFA Fine Arts Programs in San Bernardino, California

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in San Bernardino, California

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts is a specialized degree that focuses on studio art, design, and creative practices. Students choose from multiple educational paths, including traditional degree programs, transfer pathways, or integrated art and design curricula. Pursuing a BFA in Fine Arts offers robust studio art experience and opportunities to develop professional skills in painting, sculpture, photography, and other fine arts disciplines.

About San Bernardino

San Bernardino is a dynamic city in California known for its rich historical background and emerging cultural scene. The city is home to various public art projects, community events, and a growing arts infrastructure. More details about city initiatives and community resources can be found on the City of San Bernardino’s official website. Local landmarks and neighborhoods, especially around the downtown and university areas, offer a unique setting for art enthusiasts and creative professionals.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in San Bernardino, California

A number of institutions provide pathways to earning a BFA Fine Arts Degree in or near San Bernardino. Below is a list of programs with details on their location, address, and additional distance information where applicable:

  1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

    • Program: BFA in Art and BFA in Design
    • Address: 5500 University Pkwy, San Bernardino, CA 92407
    • Neighborhood: Located in the University District
    • Details: CSUSB emphasizes socially engaged art and innovative design, including a capstone thesis with industry partnerships. The BFA programs here are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and aligned with California’s educational standards. For more details, visit the CSUSB Art and Design page.

  2. University of Redlands

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art
    • Address: 1200 E Colton Ave, Redlands, CA 92373
    • Neighborhood: Situated in the historic downtown area of Redlands
    • Distance: Approximately 20 miles from San Bernardino
    • Details: The University of Redlands offers an immersive art education with opportunities for studio practice and interdisciplinary projects that prepare students for careers in fine arts.

  3. ArtCenter College of Design

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts
    • Address: 490 S. Santa Monica Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91101
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Mid-City area of Pasadena
    • Distance: Approximately 60 miles from San Bernardino
    • Details: A highly respected institution known for its rigorous studio approach and innovative design methodologies. While the campus is further away, it offers extensive resources and networking opportunities in the creative industries.

Art Institutions and Galleries in San Bernardino

San Bernardino boasts several art institutions and galleries that support local creativity and cultural engagement:

  • CSUSB Art Gallery
    Located on the CSUSB campus, this gallery showcases student exhibitions and professional art displays. It serves as a creative hub for emerging artists in the community.

  • San Bernardino Art Association
    The association supports local artists through exhibitions, workshops, and community events. While its online presence is developing, it remains a vital resource for artists seeking networking and collaborative opportunities. Visit the San Bernardino Art Association website for more information.

  • San Bernardino County Museum
    This museum hosts a variety of art exhibitions and educational programs, emphasizing the cultural richness of San Bernardino County. Details, including current exhibits and event schedules, can be found on the San Bernardino County Museum website.

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Prospective students should consider several common prerequisites when applying to BFA Fine Arts programs:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with the successful completion of foundation courses in art and art history.
  • Portfolio Review: Applicants may need to submit a portfolio that demonstrates creativity and technical skills. For transfer and third-year students, a minimum GPA (commonly ≥3.0) is often required.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some programs conduct entrance exams or interviews to assess an applicant’s readiness for advanced studio work.

These requirements provide a solid foundation for engaging with the rigorous studio environment and specialized art courses featured in BFA programs.

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in California

Offering a comprehensive overview of the degree requirements, California’s fine arts programs typically include a mix of lower-division foundation courses and upper-division advanced studios. Critical details include:

  • Core Curriculum

    • Lower-division: Includes 2D/3D foundation courses, art history, and introductory studio electives.
    • Upper-division: Focuses on advanced studio courses, professional practices, and capstone or thesis projects (often requiring 15-24 units in intermediate/advanced studio courses).

  • Specialized Programs

    • BFA in Art: Offers various specializations, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, ceramics, and socially engaged art.
    • BFA in Design: Concentrations may include interface design, motion graphics, 3D design, and marketing strategies.
    • MFA in Studio Art: Available for students seeking advanced study with an emphasis on experimental studio practices.

  • Accreditation and Regulatory Bodies

    • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
      Verify accreditation by consulting the NASAD Accredited Institutions List.
    • City of San Bernardino Arts and Cultural Affairs Division
      Promotes arts initiatives and cultural programming. Visit the City of San Bernardino website for more details or call (909) 384-7272.
    • San Bernardino County Arts Commission
      Supports arts education, grants, and county-wide cultural events. Contact them at (909) 387-5844.
    • California Department of Education (CDE)
      Oversees K-12 and higher education standards, including those for arts programs. Visit the CDE official website or call (916) 319-0800.
    • U.S. Department of Education
      Sets national educational standards. Additional resources can be explored on the Arts Education page.

For job prospects in fine arts, additional career data and information can be found by reviewing the job outlook for Fine Artists on BLS.gov.

Get Started Today

San Bernardino offers diverse educational resources and community organizations that enrich the experience of pursuing a BFA Fine Arts Degree. With a range of specialized programs and supportive local arts institutions, prospective art educators and creative professionals are encouraged to research further and contact the institutions directly through their provided communication forms. Begin your journey in fine arts by reaching out to a school today!