Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art
Discover Your Creative Potential with a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art Degree at Georgian Court University
Immerse yourself in the theory, history, and hands-on practice of art with the B.A. in Visual Art at Georgian Court University, located in Lakewood, New Jersey. Our program blends classroom learning with extensive studio time, empowering you to develop as both a thinker and a practicing artist. Whether you aspire to a career in studio art, art education, or arts management, GCU provides the foundation and support you need to succeed.
Why Choose GCU’s B.A. in Visual Art Degree?
Comprehensive Curriculum
Study art studio disciplines, art history, and art theory in a program designed to foster both creative and critical thinking.
Hands-On Studio Experience
Work in dedicated art studios for painting, drawing, and design/photography—exclusively for art majors—on our historic Lakewood campus.
Personalized Attention
Small class sizes mean direct mentorship from expert faculty, recognized for excellence in teaching and student support.
Minor in Studio Art
Expand your skills and portfolio with a minor in Studio Art, open to all undergraduates.
Inclusive, Supportive Community
Join a diverse student body, with over 30% first-generation college students, and benefit from resources like the GCU Promise, which helps eliminate financial barriers for those in need.
Exceptional Student Experience
GCU boasts a 94% one-semester retention rate and a vibrant campus life, including art events and exhibitions.
Prime Location
Enjoy campus life close to the beach, with easy access to both New York City & Philadelphia.
Affordable Investment
99% of freshmen receive financial aid, with average awards over $39,000 per year.
Careers & Salary Information for Visual Art Graduates
What Can You Do with a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art from Georgian Court University?
A B.A. in Visual Art from Georgian Court University prepares you for a wide range of creative careers in New Jersey, New York, and beyond. Our graduates pursue careers in studio art, art education, museums, galleries, and arts management. Many also pursue advanced study in fine arts, art therapy, or arts administration. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for artists is projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030-faster than average.
Median Salaries for Visual Art Careers (NJ/NYC):
- Fine Artist / Illustrator: $66,000–$130,000 per year
- Animator / Multimedia Artist: $80,000–$104,000 per year
- Art Director: $126,000–$154,000 per year
- Museum Curator / Technician: $57,000–$65,000 per year
- College Art Educator: $100,000–$132,000 per year
- Freelance Visual Artist: $30–$85 per hour (NYC average: $82,000 per year)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Glassdoor, Salary.com, NYC Creative Economy Report (2024–2025)
Career Growth & Job Outlook:
Visual art careers are as diverse as they are dynamic. Job opportunities remain strong in cultural institutions, education, and the growing digital media sector. The New York metro area offers some of the highest salaries and densest job markets for artists and creative professionals in the country. Many visual art graduates also thrive in freelance careers, with competitive earnings and creative flexibility. Demand for artists with digital and multimedia skills is increasing across industries—from entertainment and advertising to education and nonprofit work.
Academic Excellence
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Small Class Sizes
Experience personalized learning and mentorship with an average undergraduate class size of just 14 students. -
93% Faculty with Terminal Degrees
Learn from leading experts in their fields. -
Minor in Studio Art
Strengthen your résumé in just 18 credits. (six courses)
Student Success & Support
-
99% of Freshmen Receive Aid
Nearly every student gets financial support to thrive. -
$39K+ Average Aid Award
Generous scholarships and grants make education attainable. -
Prime Location
Access opportunities in New York City and Philadelphia, both just one hour from campus.
Shape Your Future in
Visual Art
Need to
learn more?
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the B.A. in Visual Art program will:
- Analyze and discuss the conceptual approaches and creative processes of diverse visual artists.
- Apply advanced critical thinking and visual analysis skills in assignments and presentations.
- Create original artwork demonstrating progressive mastery of art and design principles, evaluated through portfolio reviews.
- Identify and research significant artists and periods in global art history, developing expertise in selected topics.
Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art degree FAQs
What makes GCU’s Visual Art program unique?
Our program combines rigorous academics with hands-on studio practice and a supportive, inclusive campus community. Faculty are highly rated for teaching excellence, and students benefit from small classes and individualized attention.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. 99% of GCU students receive scholarships or financial aid. The GCU Promise initiative covers all general fees and, in some cases, up to the full cost of tuition for students with financial need.
Can I minor in Studio Art?
Absolutely. The Studio Art minor is open to all undergraduates and is a popular option for students seeking to expand their creative skills.
What facilities are available?
Students have access to well-equipped studios for painting, ceramics, printmaking, and digital art, as well as exhibition spaces on campus.
Where is Georgian Court University located?
GCU is located in Lakewood, NJ, just a short drive from the Jersey Shore and within easy access to both New York City and Philadelphia—two of the nation’s major cultural hubs—making it an ideal location for aspiring artists to find inspiration, opportunities, and connections.
B.A. in Visual Art Program Highlights
Studio-Based Learning
- Hands-On Studio Courses: Experience a curriculum built around immersive studio courses in drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media. Develop your skills through direct engagement with a variety of traditional and contemporary art forms.
- Personalized Faculty Mentorship: Benefit from small class sizes and close mentorship from accomplished artists and scholars dedicated to nurturing your creative growth and technical mastery.
- Senior Exhibition Experience: Showcase your artistic development in a capstone senior exhibition, where you’ll present a curated selection of your work and gain real-world experience in professional art presentation.
Creative & Professional Advantages
- Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Broaden your perspective by taking electives across art, communication, dance, graphic design, and music, preparing you for diverse creative careers and collaborations.
- Inclusive, Supportive Community: Join a welcoming campus environment that celebrates creativity, inclusivity, and storytelling-exemplified by spaces like GCU’s Storytelling Studio and vibrant student art events.
- Career & Certification Pathways: Prepare for a wide range of futures, from practicing artist to art educator, with options to pursue teacher certification or dual education tracks, and access to career guidance throughout your studies.
B.A. in Visual Art Program Information
Curriculum – B.A. in Visual Art
To earn this degree, students must successfully complete at least 120 credits, including General Education requirements and the major requirements below.
Major Sequences
A minimum of 36 credits is required.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Art | ||
| AR111 | Drawing I | 3.0 |
| AR113 | Visual Thinking & Design | 3.0 |
| AR201 | Drawing II | 3.0 |
| Art History | 6.0 | |
Select from among: | ||
AR220 | Modern Art | |
AR228 | European & U.S. Art | |
AR229 | World Art History | |
Other art history | ||
| AR499 | Senior Exhibition Seminar | 3.0 |
| Studio Art Electives | ||
| 200-400 level Studio Art electives | 12.0 | |
| Major Electives | ||
| Select 6 credits from any Art, Communication, Dance, Graphic Design, or Music courses. 1 | 6.0 | |
| Total Credits | 36.0 | |
- 1
General Education courses can be used to fulfill this requirement.
Teacher of Art Certification with Teacher of Students with Disabilities: See requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Visual Art, 36 credits. For required professional courses in education, please refer to the School of Education section of this catalog.
Art with Dual Ed (K–6) & Teacher of Students with Disabilities: See requirements for the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Visual Art, 36 credits. For required professional courses in education, please refer to the School of Education section of this catalog.
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Curriculum – Minor in Studio Art
Explore the foundations and theories of art as well as principles of visual thinking while enhancing your personal artistic skills. The minor in studio art from GCU inspires students to push artistic boundaries and expand their creative horizons.
Minor Sequence
A minimum of 18 credits is required for the minor. Students must receive a grade of C or better in all courses applied to the minor.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| AR111 | Drawing I | 3.0 |
| AR201 | Drawing II | 3.0 |
| Studio Art Electives | 12.0 | |
| Total Credits | 18.0 | |
For more information on program requirements, consult the Undergraduate Catalog.
Visual Art Faculty
Lisa A. Festa, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
School of Arts, Sciences, and Education
Jeffries Hall (212)
lfesta@georgian.edu
732-987-2320
Leo Morrissey, M.F.A.
Associate Professor
School of Arts, Sciences, and Education
Jeffries Hall (214)
lmorrissey@georgian.edu
732-987-2437
Art Course Rotation
| COURSE ID# | TITLE | FALL | SPRING |
|---|---|---|---|
| AR111 | Drawing 1 | Fall | Spring |
| AR201 | Drawing 2 | Spring | |
| AR313 | Painting 1 | Fall | |
| AR314 | Painting 2 | Spring | |
| AR422 | Creative Photography 1 | Fall | Spring |
| AR427 | Advanced Studio | Fall | Spring |
| AR499 | Senior Exhibition | Spring | |
| AR113 | Visual Thinking & Design | Fall - Every Third Year | |
| AR315 | Sculpture | Spring - When Needed for Art Education Cohort |
Ready to turn your passion for art into a rewarding career?
Apply now or request more information about the Bachelor of Arts in Visual Art at Georgian Court University in Lakewood, New Jersey.
Have questions? Contact us
Georgian Court University
900 Lakewood Avenue
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Campus Map
Contact Information
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Phone: 732-987-2700
E-mail: admissions@georgian.edu
Office Hours
- Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: *By appointment only
- Sunday: Closed
*Check tour schedule for specific dates/times.
