The Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at UD emphasizes a broad arts and sciences education with supportive studies in art, photography, design and art history. Through this program, you'll receive a breadth of exploration and experience in these fields. You can also add a minor — or two — to create a program that's tailored to your interests.
The University of Dayton is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
Tailor your degree by choosing a minor that matches your unique interests.
Every March at the Horvath Student Juried Exhibition, we take the opportunity to recognize outstanding student achievement. Professional artists are invited to jury the show and select awardees.
Visual arts majors are invited to share their work outside of the University and across the Dayton community through the department's Index Gallery, student run pop-up exhibitions and the annual regional student exhibition at the The Contemporary Dayton.
Every year students travel to New York City to visit galleries and museums and to explore the work of professional artists.
Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about visual arts at UD.
The department requires the purchase of a MacBook Pro for all visual art majors at the start of classes in the first semester. View additional computer requirements information.
Art and design students can minor or double major. In fact, a double major is recommended with the B.A.
At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.
Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.
Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.
To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.
The Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts degree requires a total of at least 120 hours. This degree also includes requirements from our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP).
Though there is no portfolio application/entrance requirement, all majors in the department go through a major review upon completion of the foundation courses.
In this review — known as the Exchange — all majors are evaluated by a committee of three faculty members from the department. The review is 30 minutes and results in a written evaluation of student progress toward their degree.
The Bachelor of Arts in visual arts is a flexible, broad liberal arts program with supportive studies from all areas of visual arts.
This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.
At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.
At the University of Dayton, you'll have a supportive community dedicated to fueling your success. Through guaranteed, real-world experience, you'll build the skills and confidence needed to be workforce ready.
Let’s create your future. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.
Our faculty and staff are here to support you throughout your visual arts journey at UD.