Undergraduate programs
Many prominent Northwest artists, designers, and art historians began their professional careers by studying art at Portland State University. An even greater number of successful and productive people have used their training in the School of Art+Design as the basis for careers in commerce, industry, education, and a variety of fields limited only by imagination. Offering a broad curriculum, including undergraduate degrees in Art History, Art Practices, and Graphic Design, as well as MFA and BFA degrees in Art Practices, the school seeks a diverse student population and takes advantage of its geographical location in the heart of Portland, extending our classroom activities into the city’s vibrant cultural community.
With a dedicated faculty actively engaged in their own creative and scholarly research, our student body of aspiring artists, designers and art historians explores new avenues of expression, prepares for professional and academic careers, and builds theoretical and practical foundations for future artistic and intellectual discovery. As a general rule, the major in art requires a minimum of 88 credits in art courses. Included are extensive experiences in studio work and a comprehensive study of the history of art. Majors in art history require a minimum of 68 credits.
Degree Maps and Learning Outcomes
Degree maps display the sequence of courses leading up to, in, and through the major or minor to completion of the degree. To view the degree maps and expected learning outcomes for Art+Design's undergraduate degrees, go to www.pdx.edu/undergraduate-programs and click on the "Degree Maps" column for Art History, Art: Graphic Design, and Art: Practices. If you have any questions, please schedule an appointment with an academic advisor as soon as you can.