BFA Fine Arts Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Arts is a professional degree designed for those aiming to pursue careers in studio art, art education, and creative practice. This guide explains the pathways available—from traditional studio arts to interdisciplinary approaches—and outlines the process of earning a BFA in Fine Arts. With detailed insights into various art programs, curriculum requirements, and local as well as state-level support, prospective students can easily navigate their educational journey in Oklahoma City.

About Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City is a thriving metropolis noted for its rich history and strong arts community. Home to numerous cultural events and art initiatives, the city offers a stimulating environment for creative professionals. For more details about the city’s offerings, visit the official Oklahoma City website. Iconic neighborhoods such as downtown and the Midtown Arts District host a variety of public art installations and community events dedicated to the arts.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma City and its surrounding areas offer several reputable art programs for a BFA in Fine Arts. Below is a list of three schools with details about their programs, addresses, neighborhoods, and distances from Oklahoma City if applicable:

  1. Oklahoma City University (OKCU)

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine Arts
    • Description: OKCU offers a comprehensive Fine Arts program emphasizing studio art techniques and creative theory. The curriculum is designed to foster technical skill development and creative expression.
    • Address: 700 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103
    • Neighborhood: Midtown/Downtown
    • Learn more about OKCU’s Fine Arts program

  2. University of Oklahoma (OU) – Norman Campus

    • Program: Studio Arts BFA (Specializations include ceramics, painting, printmaking, sculpture)
    • Description: OU’s program is NASAD-accredited and incorporates core studio courses (Studio I-III totaling 9 hours) with an additional 48 hours in specialized areas such as painting or sculpture. The senior requirement includes a capstone experience.
    • Address: 660 Parrington Oval, Norman, OK 73019
    • Neighborhood: Central Norman
    • Distance: Approximately 25 miles from Oklahoma City
    • Discover OU’s Studio Arts program

  3. Oklahoma Christian University (OCU) – Edmond Campus

    • Program: Fine + Digital Art BFA
    • Description: OCU’s interdisciplinary program integrates traditional fine arts with digital media, preparing students for diverse careers in the art world. Admission requires a portfolio review and a cumulative GPA of 2.75 in art courses.
    • Address: 3625 S Eastern Ave, Edmond, OK 73034
    • Neighborhood: Edmond Campus
    • Distance: Approximately 15 miles from Oklahoma City
    • Explore OCU’s Fine + Digital Art BFA program

Art Institutions and Galleries in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is home to several key art institutions and galleries, providing inspiration and professional development opportunities for art students and practitioners:

  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art

    • Description: This museum houses extensive collections of fine art and hosts temporary exhibits that showcase both historical and contemporary works.
    • Address: 241 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
    • Visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art

  • Oklahoma Contemporary

    • Description: A city-specific arts organization that offers exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies, fostering creative dialogue within the community.
    • Address: 100 NE 8th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
    • Learn more about Oklahoma Contemporary

Local galleries scattered throughout the downtown and Midtown neighborhoods also contribute to the art scene, offering exhibition space and networking opportunities for emerging artists.

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Prospective students should be aware of the common prerequisites required before enrolling in a BFA Fine Arts program. These include:

  • Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Portfolio Review: Most programs require a portfolio showcasing previous work. For instance, the University of Oklahoma mandates a review after the completion of 12 lower-division art courses.
  • GPA Requirements: Typical minimum GPAs include 2.5 for OU and 2.75 in art courses for programs like Oklahoma Christian University.
  • Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some schools may conduct entrance examinations or interviews as part of the selection process.

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in Oklahoma

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Oklahoma must navigate several degree requirements and take advantage of the regulatory and support resources available at the city, county, and state levels:

  • Curriculum Requirements:
    • University of Oklahoma: Core Studio I-III (9 hours) plus 48 hours in specialization (e.g., 12 hours in one medium, 6 in another). Senior students complete Senior Studio I/II alongside a Capstone Experience.
    • Oklahoma Christian University: A 54-hour BFA core supplemented by 26 hours in an advanced studio concentration. A professional exhibition review is required during the senior year.
  • Accreditation: OU’s Studio Arts BFA is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Check NASAD’s accreditation directory for up-to-date verification.
  • Regulatory Bodies:
    • Oklahoma City Arts Commission – Promotes arts education and cultural initiatives. Official website | Phone: (405) 297-2578
    • Oklahoma County Arts & Cultural Affairs – Supports county-wide arts programs. Official website | Phone: (405) 713-1125
    • Oklahoma Arts Council – A state agency funding arts programs and grants. Official website | Phone: (405) 521-2931
    • Oklahoma State Board of Regents – Oversees higher education policies, including arts programs. Official website | Phone: (405) 225-9100
    • U.S. Department of Education – Manages national education policies, including funding. Visit website
    • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) – Provides federal grants for arts initiatives. Visit website
  • State-Specific Resources and Information:
    • Types of BFA Degrees: Options include Studio Arts (focusing on ceramics, painting, printmaking, or sculpture) and Fine + Digital Art (merging traditional and digital media).
    • Educational Resources: The OU School of Visual Arts offers extensive BFA programs with both studio and art history courses. Explore OU School of Visual Arts (2024 tuition: $34,600/year).
  • Professional Organizations:
    • College Art Association (CAA): Advocates for arts education and professional development. Visit CAA
    • Americans for the Arts: Offers national advocacy for arts policies. Visit Americans for the Arts
  • Additional Resources:

For further career insights, visit the job outlook page for Fine Artists on bls.gov.

Get Started Today

Prospective students are encouraged to take the next step toward earning their BFA in Fine Arts. With a range of programs from Oklahoma City University to neighboring institutions like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma Christian University, opportunities abound. Review admission criteria, prepare your portfolio, and reach out to schools via their inquiry forms to learn more about the transformative educational journey that awaits.