As an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, the Wayne State College Department of Art and Design provides students the opportunity to pursue bachelor's degrees with concentrations in K-12 art education, graphic design, and studio art. All art students share a common core of classes with specialized instruction in each major area. The department prides itself on the reputation of the K-12 art education program, which provides innovation and leadership throughout the region. Employment opportunities for our graduates are outstanding, and the program enjoys a job placement rate of nearly 100 percent.

The graphic design program utilizes the latest software to provide students with extensive training on the use of the computer as a design and production tool. A strong foundation in art and design, along with an emphasis on computer graphics, web design, animation and interactive media prepares our students for success. Graduates enjoy excellent opportunities for employment in a broad range of graphic design areas. Our graduates have secured positions both regionally and nationally.

The studio art program is designed to lay the groundwork for those students who plan to ultimately pursue graduate work, work as practicing artists or pursue work in other art-related fields. Students are exposed to a broad range of studio experiences and work to acquire the skills and problem-solving ability necessary for these endeavors. All of our graduating studio art majors who have applied for acceptance into graduate school have received teaching assistantships to pursue their Master of Fine Arts degrees at major research universities across the nation.

Art and Design Faculty | see list

The Art and Design faculty is comprised of practicing professional artists and scholars who bring a wide range of artistic diversity to the program. They are committed to sharing with students their expertise and enthusiasm in order to develop the individual talents of every student. Small class sizes enable faculty to give personal attention to students both in and out of the classroom. If you are interested in art as a field of study or career choice, please contact Steven Elliott Chairman, Wayne State College Department of Art and Design, via e-mail or at (402) 375-7359.

Mission

The Department of Art & Design is dedicated to developing and expanding students’ intellectual, aesthetic and creative development through its commitment to high standards and quality programs in Art Education, Graphic Design, and Studio Art. A strong foundation in design and drawing fundamentals is combined with a broad range of studio experiences, art history, exhibitions and visiting artists to provide students the opportunity to acquire the skills, problem-solving ability, self-awareness, and aesthetic growth necessary to pursue careers or advanced study in their respective fields.

Goals

The undergraduate goals of the Department of Art and Design are: 1.) To prepare art majors at the baccalaureate level for the pursuit of careers in K-12 art education, graphic design and studio art. 2.) To provide students with knowledge about the use of traditional and new technologies, materials, and techniques related to visual arts. 3.) To provide rich cultural and aesthetic visual experiences which contribute to the college, community and the society at large. 4.) To prepare art students for graduate school in K-12 art education, graphic design and studio art programs.