Art and Art History is where creativity meets culture. Explore diverse art movements,
from ancient to contemporary, and discover the rich tapestry of human expression.
Art (AFA)
The Associate in Fine Arts degree (AFA) is tailored for students aiming to seamlessly
transfer into a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in Studio Art as juniors.
Art/Art History (AA)
Illinois colleges and universities offer two types of bachelor's degrees in Art: the
professional Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with a
major in Art.
Art Education (AA)
In Illinois, public school art teachers must be certified by the state, additionally
to transfer into an approved art education program as a junior, students need at least
60 semester credits
About Art / Art History
The Associate in Fine Arts degree (AFA) is tailored for students aiming to seamlessly
transfer into a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program in Studio Art as juniors. Emphasis
is placed on completing core art courses before enrolling in media-specific studio
courses. Typically, a portfolio is necessary for transfer, and students are advised
to seek guidance from instructors, counselors, and advisors at Prairie State College
or their intended transfer university to ensure they take the most suitable courses.
Illinois colleges and universities offer two types of bachelor's degrees in Art: the professional Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) and the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with a major in Art. The B.F.A. degree typically requires 70 or more semester credits of art courses and prepares students for graduate school, while the B.A. degree (major in Art) requires about 40 to 50 semester credits of art courses. Additionally, some schools may require competency in a foreign language for the B.A. degree, while the B.F.A. usually does not.
Portfolio Review: Students aiming for a bachelor's degree should note that transfer admission to art-related programs is highly competitive. Most schools mandate a portfolio review for B.F.A. program admission, registration in a second studio course, or scholarship consideration.In Illinois, public school art teachers must be certified by the state. To transfer into an approved art education program as a junior, students need at least 60 semester credits, but admission is competitive and completion of recommended courses doesn't guarantee entry. Community college students are advised to complete an Associate in Arts degree before transferring. Some colleges may request a portfolio for admission, and a minimum 2.5 GPA is usually required. Additionally, students must pass the Illinois Basic Skills Test, covering reading, writing, grammar, and math, and undergo a criminal background check before enrolling in field experience courses. It is important for students to consult with academic advisors at both the community college and senior university early and regularly.