Join a thriving community of artists, designers, educators, and scholars at a Tier 1 research university where your creative work contributes to something bigger.
Study with renowned faculty. Access world-class facilities. Experience hands-on learning.
At Illinois, you’ll think, create, and problem-solve in ways that shape what’s possible. Our art and design programs build versatile skills—creativity, communication, collaboration—that prepare you for a wide range of careers in a rapidly growing creative economy.
The School of Art & Design is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD), and is regarded as one of the outstanding public university art programs in the United States.
Learn more about our degree programs & majors:
Studio Art at Illinois invites students to explore and specialize across a wide range of disciplines including fashion, illustration, new media, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture. Through hands-on practice, cross-disciplinary learning, and conceptual depth, students gain the tools to make meaningful work and to lead in today’s changing creative and cultural landscape.
The Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art (BASA) lets you study art, design, and art history while exploring classes across the entire University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It’s a great fit for students who want to combine creative practice with interests in other academic areas.
In Industrial Design at Illinois, you’ll learn how everyday products like phones, furniture, and medical devices are imagined, designed, and brought to life. Through hands-on projects, prototyping, and feedback from faculty who are also practicing designers, you’ll develop the skills to create solutions that are both useful and meaningful. You’ll explore how people interact with products and design with their needs in mind, preparing you for careers in product design, UX/UI, transportation, toys, and more.
In Graphic Design at Illinois, you’ll learn how design shapes the way people communicate, interact, and understand the world, whether on screens, in print, or in public spaces. You’ll build strong skills in typography, image-making, research, and problem-solving while exploring how design can create positive change. With access to interdisciplinary electives across art, design, and technology, you can develop your own creative interests and craft a portfolio that prepares you for today’s fast-moving design fields.
In Art Education at Illinois, you’ll prepare to become a licensed K–12 art teacher in Illinois while growing as an artist, educator, and creative leader. You’ll explore contemporary art, visual culture, and studio practice, all while working closely with faculty who are both scholars and makers. Whether you choose to teach or pursue another creative path, you’ll graduate ready to inspire others and make a meaningful impact in your community.
Art History at Illinois asks big questions about why art is made, who makes it, and how it shapes cultures across time. You’ll study global histories while also taking studio and design courses that help you think like both a scholar and a maker. With small seminars, hands-on work with museum collections, and faculty who are leaders in their fields, you’ll build strong skills in visual analysis, writing, and critical thinking. Graduates pursue careers in museums, galleries, education, archives, and many fields that value clear communication and cultural understanding.
As an Art Education major at Illinois, I have really loved the balance between studios and art ed specific classes. I have been able to create amazing work that I am proud of, learn new mediums and techniques, and build my pedagogy all in one. I have also had the opportunity to go on incredible field trips to several art museums, as well as partake in many exhibitions. Overall, the community that exists in all of Art & Design is my favorite; there is always a familiar face in one of my studios or art ed courses, and I’ve gotten to know so many amazing artists and faculty through them.
Why Choose Illinois?
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign gives you the space, community, and support to explore your creativity and turn your ideas into real possibilities.
- Top-ranked public research university with a strong, supportive creative community.
- Learning from practicing professionals in art, design, education, and scholarship.
- Professional studios, labs, and making spaces open to all undergraduates.
- A museum on campus and access to rare collections and archives.
- Hands-on, project-based learning that builds strong portfolios.
- Career support and alumni connections across creative industries.
- A campus where your voice and ideas can shape the future of art and design.
Visit with Us!
College of Fine & Applied Arts Info Session:
Join FAA administration for an on-campus information session and get a closer look at the College of Fine and Applied Arts, which houses Architecture, Art and Design, Dance, Landscape Architecture, Music, Sustainable Design, Theatre, and Urban Planning. Come on a Friday this fall! Register for an FAA info session.
Art & Design Facilities Tour:
Join the School of Art and Design for a tour of its facilities and learn more about its many degree programs, labs, and studios. Tours are held most Fridays. Register for a School of Art and Design tour.
Art & Design Portfolio Tips Presentation (Virtual): Monday Dec 8, 2025, 8:00pm
Learn the best practices for putting together an art and design portfolio. We will show you real examples of portfolio work and offer tips to make your portfolio stronger for admission to the School of Art and Design. Register for a virtual portfolio tips presentation.
The Illinois Experience & Campus Tour:
Visit the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign during daily information sessions and take tours with admissions counselors. Select a date that works for you and see all there is to being a student at the University of Illinois!
Learn more about our world-class facilities!
Here at Illinois, you can create anything, shape your career, and forge your path forward as an artist, designer, scholar, or educator. Our students have access to a wide variety of resources and facilities, including:
- Studio Spaces
- The Krannert Art Museum
- The Ricker Library of Architecture and Art
- Fabrication and Print (3D) labs
- Gallery & installation spaces
- Computing Resources
- Exhibition opportunities, portfolio reviews, and renowned visiting artists and scholars
Being part of the School of Art and Design has brought me opportunities I never imagined. From building my own shelves in the Woodshop to seeing my graphic design work showcased on our exhibition walls, I’ve had access to incredible resources that have brought my ideas to life. The faculty has been endlessly supportive—whether guiding me through research papers or even helping me with creative projects outside of class. Having full access to cameras, studios, and other equipment has also allowed me to explore photography, a hobby I’ve always loved, with so much freedom. This school has given me the space, tools, and mentorship to grow as an artist in ways I’m deeply grateful for.
Contact Us!
Still have questions? Email us at art@illinois.edu!