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Oakland University
Art and Art History

310 Wilson Hall
Rochester , MI 48309
(location map)
phone: (248) 370-3375
fax: (248) 370-3377

Oakland University
Art and Art History

310 Wilson Hall
Rochester , MI 48309
(location map)
phone: (248) 370-3375
fax: (248) 370-3377

hands covered in pink material, holding a tool, sculpting a pink object

Studio Art

Art captures the history and culture of civilization, making the personal universal by recording visual perceptions of the world. Our students explore knowledge through technical processes in drawing, painting, photography, and art & technology. We make art as vehicle for expression and visualization. Our articulate students develop critical and analytical transferable skills valuable in all problem-solving fields.

Our majors and non-majors receive thorough technical and aesthetic grounding across all disciplines. Majors in studio art or K-12 art education specialize in drawing, painting, photography, or interactive art & technology. Our graduates have successful careers in many creative art, design, and cultural/information industries.

NEW B.A. Studio Art Major Requirements STARTING FALL 2023!

Starting Fall 2023, the Department of Art and Art History will roll out a new B.A. Degree major in Studio Art - a single multidisciplinary arts curriculum to replace the four current major specialization offerings: Art + Technology, Drawing, Painting and Photography.

If you are a current SA or SA K-12 major, please see this link for additional information that will soon be implemented on OU’s Studio Art program.


Writing in Studio Art

Beginning with artists’ statements, writing is an intrinsic part of all art courses. Intermediate assignments involve written reports on content and contemporary relevance of student art, as well as critical theory and analysis. Our senior thesis course includes a written paper about the development, growth and execution of the artwork, investigating the work through the lens of current critical theory and contemporary influences.

K-12 Art Education Certification

Students interested in K-12 art education certification should contact Colleen Ludwig, art education advisor: ckludwig@oakland.edu. For additional information on the certification, view the K-12 art education advising site

Gallery Events

All students are required to attend at least one lecture or event at the Oakland University Art Gallery (OUAG) sponsored either by the OUAG or Department of Art and Art History. Check with your instructor for details.

Program Overview Major RequirementsMinor Requirements