BFA Fine Arts Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Getting a BFA Fine Arts Degree in Arlington, Virginia

A Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree is a focused professional training program that concentrates on studio art practices such as painting, sculpture, and digital media. There are multiple pathways available in Fine Arts education, ranging from studio-intensive BFA programs to art education tracks. Prospective students will benefit from understanding the unique approaches taken by various art programs in the region.

About Arlington, Virginia

Arlington, Virginia is a dynamic urban community known for its rich cultural landscape and commitment to the arts. The city offers modern infrastructure alongside historical landmarks like the Arlington National Cemetery and vibrant local neighborhoods such as Clarendon and Ballston. More information about Arlington is available on the official city website (search “Cultural Affairs”) and its initiatives to promote arts and culture.

BFA Fine Arts Programs in Arlington, Virginia

While Arlington itself hosts excellent art opportunities, there are several programs both within and near the city for those pursuing a BFA or related degrees in studio art.

  1. Marymount University – Arlington, VA

    • Program: BFA in Studio Art (or a related Fine Arts concentration)
    • Address: 2301 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Clarendon area
    • Details: Marymount University offers a comprehensive studio arts curriculum that prepares students for professional artistic practice. Prospective students should visit the Marymount University website for more details on art programs and admission requirements.

  2. George Mason University (GMU) – Fairfax, VA (Approximately 10 miles from Arlington)

    • Program: BFA in Art and Visual Technology with tracks in graphic design, studio arts, and an accelerated MAT option for art educators
    • Address: 4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Fairfax area
    • Details: GMU’s program includes courses in typography, web design, and digital photography. Applicants are required to submit a portfolio and meet course prerequisites. More information can be found on the GMU Art and Visual Technology BFA page.

  3. Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) – Annandale, VA (Approximately 12 miles from Arlington)

    • Program: Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Visual Art, designed as a transfer pathway to BFA programs
    • Address: 11251 Meadowlark Pkwy, Annandale, VA 22003
    • Neighborhood: Located in the Annandale area
    • Details: NOVA provides a solid foundation in 2D and 3D media with 62 credits required, including 24 credits in foundational visual art courses and a capstone exhibition project. Visit the NOVA Visual Art program page for further details.

Art Institutions and Galleries in Arlington, Virginia

Arlington offers several institutions that support the local arts scene and provide opportunities for emerging and established artists:

  • Arlington Arts Center
    • Purpose: The center provides exhibition space, art classes, and artist residencies to foster creative practice.
    • Address: Specific details are available on the center’s resources; it is situated in one of Arlington’s creative hubs.
    • Neighborhood: Often associated with the modern arts scene in areas like Clarendon
    • More Information: Visit the Arlington Arts Center website to explore current exhibitions and programs.

Prerequisites for BFA Fine Arts Programs

Admission into BFA Fine Arts programs generally requires:

  • A minimum educational qualification (typically a high school diploma or equivalent)
  • A strong portfolio showcasing previous work and artistic potential
  • Letters of recommendation and a personal statement
  • Entrance exams or interviews in some cases
  • Specific prerequisites for specialized tracks (e.g., GMU requires completion of courses such as AVT 215 in Typography and AVT 217 in Web Design)

BFA Fine Arts Degree Requirements in Virginia

Official Arts and Educational Regulatory Bodies for Arlington, Virginia

State-Specific Degree Information

Types of BFA Degrees Available

  • Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA):

    • Degree: Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Visual Art
    • Curriculum: Requires 62 credits, including 24 credits in foundational visual arts and a capstone exhibition project
    • Purpose: Prepares students for transfer to BFA programs in fine arts, graphic design, or photography

  • George Mason University (GMU):

    • Degree: BFA in Art and Visual Technology
    • Curriculum: 120 credits for the standard BFA track with an accelerated MAT option (150 credits total, including the Praxis Core Exam)
    • Requirements: Portfolio submission, course prerequisites (including AVT 215 in Typography and AVT 217 in Web Design)
    • Accreditation: Accredited by NASAD to ensure program quality and eligibility for federal financial aid

Professional and Educational Organizations

  • College Art Association (CAA)

Career Information and Job Prospects

Pursuing a BFA or Fine Arts degree opens pathways to careers such as graphic designer, animator, art educator, and professional artist. Entry-level salaries generally range from $45,000 to $70,000, with opportunities for career growth in federal agencies (e.g., the Smithsonian), private design firms, and educational institutions. For further career outlook details for Fine Artists, visit the BLS job outlook page for Fine Artists.

Get Started Today

Armed with a wealth of local and state-level resources, detailed program requirements, and a thriving arts community, prospective students are encouraged to take the next step. Explore the various art programs, prepare your portfolio, and reach out to these institutions to learn more about their application processes. Now is the time to pursue your passion in Fine Arts—contact a school today through their official forms and start shaping your creative future.