BFA Fine Arts Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in St. Louis, Missouri

Pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts offers an intensive, studio-based education that prepares students for careers in the creative industries. A BFA degree can come through various education paths, including traditional universities and specialized art schools. In St. Louis, Missouri, aspiring artists can choose from multiple art programs that emphasize studio art, painting, sculpture, digital media, and more. This guide explains the process of earning your BFA while naturally incorporating key terms such as BFA, Fine Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, art programs, schools, degree, and studio art.

About St. Louis

St. Louis, Missouri is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and lively arts scene. Home to historic neighborhoods like The Grove and Central West End and iconic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch, the city offers ample inspiration for creative professionals. For more details about the city, please visit the official St. Louis website.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in St. Louis, Missouri

Below are three key institutions that offer BFA Fine Arts programs in or near St. Louis:

  1. Washington University in St. Louis

    • Address: 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130 (Located in the University City neighborhood)
    • Program Overview: The BFA in Art at Washington University offers concentrations in painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and time-based media. The program emphasizes a capstone exhibition and interdisciplinary collaboration.
    • Website: Washington University in St. Louis BFA Program

  2. Lindenwood University

    • Address: 201 South Kingshighway, St. Charles, MO 63301 (Approximately 20 miles from St. Louis; located in a historic suburban setting)
    • Program Overview: Lindenwood offers a BFA in Art and Design with emphases in digital art, graphic design, photography, and studio art. Facilities include a state-of-the-art Print Lab and an innovative Makerspace.
    • Website: Lindenwood University BFA Program

  3. University of Missouri

    • Address: Columbia, MO (Approximately 90 miles from St. Louis – a short train ride away)
    • Program Overview: The University of Missouri offers a BFA in Art with concentrations such as ceramics, drawing, fibers, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Program highlights include a Senior Seminar and a culminating exhibition.
    • Website: University of Missouri BFA Program

Art Institutions and Galleries in St. Louis

St. Louis offers a rich environment for art appreciation and professional development:

  • St. Louis Art Museum

    • Location: Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63110
    • Overview: This public museum houses a diverse collection of art and provides artist residencies and community programs.
    • Website: St. Louis Art Museum

  • Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

    • Location: 3750 Washington Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63103 (Located in downtown St. Louis)
    • Overview: The museum focuses on contemporary art practices and offers engaging exhibits, educational programs, and dynamic installations.
    • Website: Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Individuals looking to enroll in a BFA Fine Arts program in St. Louis should expect to meet the following prerequisites:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Portfolio Requirement: Most institutions require a portfolio review that showcases an applicant’s creative ability and range.
  • Grade Point Average (GPA): Specific GPA requirements vary; the University of Missouri typically requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, while Lindenwood University requires at least 3.0.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some schools may require standardized tests, interviews, or additional artistic evaluations.

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in Missouri

Missouri has established several regulatory bodies and accredited organizations that oversee arts and educational standards:

Official City Arts and Educational Regulatory Bodies

  • Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RACSTL)
    • Purpose: Promotes arts and culture in St. Louis through grants, public art projects, and community engagement.
    • Website: RACSTL
    • Contact: (314) 863-5811, [email protected]

Official County Arts and Educational Regulatory Bodies

Official State Arts and Educational Regulatory Bodies

Federal Arts and Education Oversight Agencies

State-Specific Degree Information

Types of BFA Degrees Available

  • University of Missouri:
    • Offers concentrations in ceramics, drawing, fibers, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture.
  • Lindenwood University:
    • Emphasizes digital art, graphic design, photography, and studio art.
  • Washington University in St. Louis:
    • Provides concentrations in communication design, fashion design, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and time-based + media art.

Admission Requirements

  • Portfolio Review: Required for programs at the University of Missouri and Washington University in St. Louis.
  • GPA Standards: Minimum GPA of 2.0 for the University of Missouri and 3.0 for Lindenwood University.
  • Deadlines: Vary by institution (e.g., University of Missouri’s Fall deadline is March 1).

Curriculum Requirements

  • Core Studio Courses:
    • University of Missouri requires courses in 2-D Materials, 3-D Materials, Drawing, Color Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture.
    • Lindenwood University emphasizes digital studio work, print lab experiences, and Makerspace access.
  • Exhibitions:
    • University of Missouri features a Senior Seminar and Exhibition, while Washington University includes a Capstone Studio project.

Accreditation

Professional Organizations and Career Resources

  • College Art Association (CAA)
    • Purpose: Advocates for visual arts professionals through conferences, publications, and career resources.
    • Website: College Art Association
  • Career Information:
    • For detailed job prospects for Fine Artists, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Fine Artists Job Outlook.
    • Common careers include graphic designers (median salary $55,000), museum curators (median salary $52,000), and freelance artists/illustrators with variable incomes.

Get Started Today

With a wide range of BFA Fine Arts programs and a thriving creative community, St. Louis, Missouri provides excellent opportunities for future art professionals. The comprehensive degree requirements and numerous local and state resources, such as the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and Missouri Arts Council, ensure robust support. Contact a school today through the forms on their respective websites and take the first step toward an exciting career in the fine arts.