BFA Fine Arts Programs in Illinois

Obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Illinois

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree is a specialized program that focuses on refining creative skills in studio art, drawing, painting, graphic design, and art education. Prospective students can choose from various educational paths—from traditional full-time studio-based programs to integrated art education courses. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process and opportunities for earning a BFA in Illinois.

Why Pursue a BFA in Illinois

Illinois is home to a dynamic art scene that offers numerous opportunities for aspiring artists. The state’s official website, Illinois.gov, provides extensive resources on local cultural initiatives and public art projects. According to the Fine Artists job outlook on the Bureau of Labor Statistics, professionals in this field can expect competitive salaries—graphic designers in Illinois earn a median salary between $50,000 and $70,000—and steady job growth, making the state an attractive destination for creative careers.

Prerequisites for BFA Programs

Admission to a BFA program in Illinois typically requires:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • A portfolio submission showcasing previous artwork, which is critical for programs like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s BFAAE.
  • Completion of any required entrance exams.
  • Meeting the minimum age requirement as specified by the institution.

Typical Program Curriculum

BFA programs combine studio work with academic and general education courses. Students can expect a curriculum that includes:

  • Studio Art Courses: Emphasis on hands-on practice and specialization in areas such as drawing/painting, graphic design, and sculpture.
  • Art History and Theory: Courses examining world cultures, modern, and contemporary art.
  • General Education: Credits in English, natural sciences, and humanities.
  • Internships/Practicums: Particularly for art education tracks, with programs like the 12-credit Apprentice Teaching integrated into the coursework. Programs generally require 120–135 credits for a complete BFA.

BFA Programs in Illinois

Here are three leading institutions offering BFA programs in Illinois:

  1. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)

    • Address: 36 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL.
    • Programs Offered: BFA in Art Education (BFAAE) and Studio Art.
    • Website: saic.edu
    • Admissions Contact: (800) 232-7242; [email protected]
    • Highlights: Emphasizes community engagement and prepares students for Illinois PK-12 licensure. Students benefit from exhibition opportunities at facilities like SAIC’s Sullivan Galleries.

  2. Elmhurst University

    • Address: Elmhurst, IL.
    • Programs Offered: BFA with concentrations in Drawing/Painting, Graphic Design, Printmaking, Sculpture/Ceramics.
    • Website: elmhurst.edu
    • Admissions Contact: (630) 617-3400; [email protected]
    • Highlights: Offers a studio-focused curriculum with accreditation through NASAD, providing strong support for creative skill development.

  3. Southern Illinois University (SIU)

    • Address: Carbondale, IL.
    • Programs Offered: BFA in Studio Art, Art Education, and Communication Design.
    • Website: siu.edu
    • Admissions Contact: (618) 453-2121; [email protected]
    • Highlights: This NASAD-accredited institution offers a diverse range of 13 specializations to cater to individual artistic interests.

Art Career Opportunities in Illinois

Illinois hosts numerous art institutions and creative hubs that contribute to a robust career landscape for BFA graduates:

  • The Art Institute of Chicago: A historic institution with an active employment section available on its Careers page. It offers opportunities in curating, education, and museum operations.
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago: Known for innovative exhibitions and programs, the museum has dedicated employment opportunities available on its official website.
  • Local Galleries: Many graduates get involved with exhibition spaces such as SAIC’s Sullivan Galleries and other local art venues that celebrate contemporary studio art.

BFA Degree Requirements

Meeting both state-specific and national standards is essential for earning a BFA in Illinois. Key requirements include:

  • Admission Requirements:
    • A detailed portfolio submission is mandatory, as seen in programs like SAIC’s BFAAE.
    • Completion of studio credits (60–72 credits for BFA programs).
    • Art History Courses: Typically 12–18 credits covering essential topics from world cultures to modern art.
    • General Education: An additional 30–36 credits in various disciplines.
  • Program Requirements:
    • Studio Specializations: Options include Drawing/Painting (8 courses at the 3000–4000 level), Graphic Design (with courses in typography and digital media), and Art Education (requiring 30 teacher preparation credits).
    • Internships/Practicums: Mandatory for art education tracks—for example, a 12-credit Apprentice Teaching course at SAIC.
  • Graduation Requirements:
    • A full BFA requires 120–135 credits, while a BA may require slightly fewer credits.
  • Accreditation: Illinois BFA programs are overseen by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which can be explored at nasad.arts-accredit.org. Additionally, state-level oversight comes from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE).

Cost and Financial Aid

Tuition and fees for BFA programs in Illinois vary by institution, with estimates typically ranging in line with other public and private art schools. Prospective students should explore financial aid opportunities, including:

  • Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC): Provides grants and scholarships to Illinois residents. Visit isac.org for more information.
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Offers funding for arts education initiatives. Details can be found at arts.gov.

Career Prospects

Graduates holding a BFA in Illinois have diverse career pathways available:

  • Art Educator: Many pursue licensure to teach PK-12 art, with specialized programs like SAIC’s BFAAE providing the necessary coursework.
  • Studio Artist: Numerous opportunities exist to exhibit work in local galleries, including renowned spaces like SAIC’s Sullivan Galleries.
  • Graphic Designer: With median salaries ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, Illinois offers a solid market for creative professionals.
  • Additional career support is available through resources such as Illinois State University Career Services, which provides resume reviews, internship placement, and alumni networking.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a BFA journey in Illinois is a significant step towards a rewarding creative career. With comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust career support, Illinois offers a rich environment for artistic growth. Prospective students are encouraged to contact one of these institutions through the available forms to learn more about program specifics, admission deadlines, and additional opportunities. Take the next step in your education and transform your creative passion into a professional career.