Art

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Art at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is designed for aspiring artists who seek to explore the expansive social, conceptual, and aesthetic dimensions of creative practice. This undergraduate degree provides a robust foundation in various media, including drawing, filmmaking, digital photography, painting, and new media arts, fostering your ability to engage with contemporary visual culture. You will develop critical thinking and studio skills through hands-on work and theoretical exploration, preparing you to contribute meaningfully to the art world and beyond. This program is ideal for students passionate about visual expression and artistic innovation.

You will study full-time on campus over four years, immersing yourself in a curriculum that balances intensive studio courses with art history and critical theory seminars. Your learning journey includes developing significant creative work, engaging in independent research, and participating in critiques, culminating in a senior project and thesis. You will work alongside internationally renowned faculty, gaining insights into current artistic trends and practices. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including further study, gallery representation, and roles in creative industries, equipped with a strong portfolio and a deep understanding of art’s role in society.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of art, encompassing foundational skills in drawing, filmmaking, and photography, alongside critical engagement with visual culture and art history. Students will develop their academic writing abilities and delve into diverse global art movements and contemporary trends. The curriculum culminates in senior projects, allowing for in-depth research and creative thesis work, complemented by a range of electives to broaden artistic and intellectual perspectives.

1 Fall Semester:

Academic writing I: Writing in academic and public contexts
Introduction to drawing
Introduction to filmmaking
Signifying practices: Art and visual culture

2 Spring Semester:

Academic writing II: Writing for inquiry and research
UIC first-year dialogue seminar
Introduction to digital photography
Introduction to painting + color
Introduction to new media arts

3 Fall Semester:

World history of art and the built environment I
Concentration courses Elective
Understanding U.S. society course
Exploring world cultures course

4 Spring Semester:

World history of art and the built environment II
Concentration course Elective
Understanding the individual and society course
Understanding the past course

5 Fall Semester:

Trends in international contemporary art since 1960
Concentration course Elective
Art elective Elective
General electives Elective

6 Spring Semester:

Reading and writing art criticism
Art electives Elective
Analyzing natural world course

7 Fall Semester:

Senior projects: Critique
AH elective Elective
General electives Elective

8 Spring Semester:

Senior projects: Thesis
AH elective Elective
Art electives Elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Educational Support ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementFilm & Television ProductionHigher Education & UniversitiesLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsSpecial & Inclusive EducationSports & AthleticsStreaming & Digital ContentVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Art at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

University of Illinois Chicago typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University of Illinois Chicago in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Art at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks on campus without needing a separate work permit. Off-campus work may be possible after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE exams. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 80 and a minimum of 16 in specific sections is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as artists, art educators, gallery curators, art directors, and art critics.

What will I actually study in this course?

This interdisciplinary program explores the social, conceptual, and aesthetic possibilities of art. Central to UIC's approach are studio courses with internationally renowned faculty that engage students in

When can I start — what are the intake months?

This program accepts students three times a year: in January, May, and August. Choose the intake that best fits your academic timeline.
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