About the Department

Art Faculty

Art Department Website

When you pursue a major or minor in the Art Department at Seattle Pacific University, you will find that the programs acquaint you with the fundamental elements and principles of the visual arts and design; develop your skills in the use of various traditional and experimental forms of studio and technological media; and encourage application of your skills in a manner that engages contemporary culture.

Your curriculum will also build cultural literacy through exposure to art history, global culture, and critical theory; and encourage your exploration of the spiritual nature of art and design as an expression of your faith.

Our Mission

From tactile to technical mediums, students learn the elements and principles of visual art and design. Critical thinking skills are also developed, equipping graduates to view their work in a broader historical, cultural and spiritual context. Graduates of our program are prepared to begin advanced study or work professionally in art and design.

Majors

Minors

Interdisciplinary Programs

Learn more about these additional interdisciplinary art programs.

• Information Studies: Art (minor)
• Information Studies: Art History and Visual Studies (minor)
• Information Studies: Visual Communication (minor)
• Integrated Studies: The Arts (major)
• Interactive Computing and Art (minor)
• Film Studies (major and minor)
• Social Justice and Cultural Studies: Art for Social Change (major)

Program Learning Outcomes

For students both during the time in the program and after graduation, the Art Department’s goals for them include:

1. Ability to utilize the fundamental elements and principles of design.  
2. Skill in the use of various traditional and experimental media employed in each discipline.  
3. Ability to make art, design and scholarship that engages contemporary cultural and aesthetic concepts.  
4. Knowledge of the historical development and cultural contexts of diverse art and design forms.  
5. Ability to explore art and design as an expression of faith.  
6. Development of the skills, awareness and knowledge base necessary for professional work or advanced study.  
7. Application of artistic and design training in a wide variety of contexts across campus in the community and in the culture-at-large.

Future Teachers

If you are interested in teaching Art at the elementary or secondary level, you should plan to complete the Arts: Emphasis in Visual Arts (BA) major along with the P-12 Visual Art Certification program through the School of Education for a Visual Arts endorsement. 

The Visual Art endorsement is a P-12 endorsement and is appropriate for students hoping to teach art at either the elementary or secondary level. You will have the opportunity to specialize in your age level of choice during your student teaching internship.  

Contact the School of Education for complete information on the certification program.