BFA Fine Arts Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in Honolulu, Hawaii

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts is a rigorous degree that prepares students for diverse careers in studio art, graphic design, and related creative fields. This guide outlines the various education paths available—ranging from rigorous studio training to interdisciplinary approaches—and provides up-to-date research-based details on art programs, degree requirements, and professional opportunities in Honolulu. It also highlights opportunities to explore career prospects as a fine artist; for more on job outlook, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Fine Artists page.

About Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is a dynamic city where art and culture intersect with natural beauty. Known for its rich history, scenic waterfronts, and landmarks like Waikiki Beach and the Iolani Palace, the city offers a unique backdrop for art students. For official city information and cultural updates, visit the City and County of Honolulu website.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu offers several options for pursuing a BFA in Fine Arts. Below are three key institutions:

  1. University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa

    • Program: BFA in Art (with specializations in Ceramics, Digital Imaging, Drawing, Electronic Arts, Glass, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture & Expanded Practices)
    • Address: 2500 Campus Road, Honolulu, HI 96822 (Manoa Valley neighborhood)
    • Program Details: The program requires core studio courses (e.g., ART 113, 116) and art history courses (e.g., ART 175, 176, 302), totaling 63 credits. A capstone exhibition is required for graduation.
    • Website: University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Art Program

  2. Brigham Young University–Hawaii

    • Program: BFA in Visual Arts with concentrations in Graphic Design and Painting & Illustration
    • Address: 227 Kamehameha Highway, Laie, HI 96762 (approximately 30 miles from downtown Honolulu)
    • Program Details: Applicants must submit a portfolio review with deadlines varying by concentration; for Graphic Design, the portfolio is due by April 10.
    • Website: BYU–Hawaii Visual Arts BFA

  3. Hawaii Pacific University

    • Program: While Hawaii Pacific University primarily offers a BA in Fine Arts, its comprehensive studio art curriculum makes it an excellent nearby alternative for those interested in fine arts.
    • Address: 2191 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96815 (located in the Kakaako district)
    • Note: Prospective students should verify if the BA curriculum aligns with their goal of pursuing a BFA-focused career path.
    • Website: Hawaii Pacific University

Art Institutions and Galleries in Honolulu

Honolulu’s art scene is supported by a range of institutions that provide exhibitions, workshops, and cultural programming:

  • Honolulu Museum of Art

    • Description: A major art museum offering an array of exhibitions and educational programs that connect contemporary art with historical traditions.
    • Location: In the central district of Honolulu
    • Website: Honolulu Museum of Art

  • Hawaii State Art Museum

    • Description: Featuring works from local and regional artists, this museum promotes an understanding of Hawaii’s cultural heritage through fine art.
    • Location: Downtown Honolulu (near the Ala Moana area)
    • Website: Hawaii State Art Museum (please verify current link as official)

  • University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Art Galleries

    • Description: Showcasing student work and professional exhibitions, these galleries are an integral part of the academic community and serve as a platform for emerging artists.
    • Location: Manoa, Honolulu
    • Website: University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa Art Galleries

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Enrollment in a BFA Fine Arts program typically requires:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent, with strong performance in visual arts courses.
  • Portfolio Review: A curated body of work is essential. For example, at University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, students must submit a portfolio after completing core studio courses.
  • Academic Standards: A minimum GPA (such as a 3.0 GPA in studio courses) may be expected.
  • Entrance Procedures: Some programs require additional entrance exams or interviews to assess artistic potential.
  • Deadlines: Application and portfolio submission deadlines vary by institution (e.g., BYU–Hawaii’s Graphic Design portfolio is due April 10).

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in Hawaii

Honolulu’s BFA programs adhere to state-specific and institutional requirements. Key details include:

State and Local Educational Regulatory Bodies

  • Honolulu Department of Education

    • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education including arts programs.
    • Website: Hawaii Public Schools
    • Contact: (808) 784-5500

  • Honolulu Arts Commission

    • Purpose: Promotes public art initiatives and cultural programming.
    • Website: Honolulu Arts Commission
    • Contact: (808) 768-6622

  • Honolulu County Department of Parks and Recreation

    • Purpose: Manages cultural facilities and community arts programs.
    • Website: Honolulu Parks
    • Contact: (808) 768-3000

  • Hawaii State Department of Education

    • Purpose: Governs statewide education policies, including arts education.
    • Website: Hawaii Public Schools
    • Contact: (808) 784-5500

  • Hawaii Arts Alliance

Federal Oversight Agencies

Curriculum and Admission Requirements

  • Undergraduate Curriculum:

    • Core studio courses (e.g., ART 113, 116) and art history courses (e.g., ART 175, 176, 302), totaling 63 credits overall.
    • At least 24 credits must be completed in studio courses with 12 credits at the upper-division level; a capstone exhibition is required before graduation.

  • Admission Requirements (University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and BYU–Hawaii):

    • Portfolio Review: Mandatory after completing designated core courses.
    • GPA: A minimum 3.0 GPA in studio courses is often expected.
    • Deadlines: Vary by specialization (e.g., BYU–Hawaii’s due date for Graphic Design is April 10).

Accreditation Information

Professional and Educational Organizations

  • College Art Association (CAA):

    • Purpose: Promotes research, teaching, and professional development in the visual arts.
    • Website: College Art Association

  • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD):

    • Purpose: Accredits art and design programs nationwide.
    • Website: NASAD

  • City-Specific Arts Organizations:

    • Honolulu Museum of Art: Provides exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies. Visit Honolulu Museum of Art.

  • County-Specific Arts Organizations:

  • Educational Resources:

  • Additional State-Level Resource:

Get Started Today

Prospective students ready to pursue a BFA in Fine Arts in Honolulu, Hawaii, can now explore these programs and resources to find the ideal fit for their creative ambitions. The opportunities provided by local and nearby schools, regulatory bodies, and cultural organizations create a robust environment for advancing studio art skills and creative practices. Contact a school today through the forms provided on their websites to embark on this educational journey.