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Bachelor's

Art

The Art major provides two degree paths: the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Fine Arts.

The Bachelor of Arts offers concentrations in Art History and Studio Art. The Bachelor of Fine Arts offers concentrations in Art Education, Graphic Design, and Studio Art (emphases include: ceramics, digital narrative arts, jewelry design & metalsmithing, painting, photography, printmaking, and sculpture).

Through critical-thinking skills and visual expression, our students cultivate their talent and prepare for dynamic careers in the arts and beyond.

Texas Tech art alumni thrive in creative fields across nearly every industry nationwide. Our alumni are successful art directors, curators of art gallery shows and museum exhibitions, art educators and administrators.

Degree Programs

B.A. in Art

B.F.A. in Art

College

J.T. & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts

Credit Hours

Bachelor of Arts: 120 Minimum Credit Hours

Bachelor of Fine Arts: 123 Minimum Credit Hours

Program Ranking

Ranked #1 in Texas for value of degree compared to cost
(Best Value Schools 2025)

Career-Ready Art Degrees

Explore diverse degree paths, hands-on studio practice, and professional preparation for careers across the creative industries.

Degree & Course Details Visual Arts Careers

Top Ranked Art College

Best Value Schools ranks the Texas Tech University Art program highest in the state for its overall value based on tuition cost, graduation rate, student to faculty ratio and admission rate.

Degree & Course Details

#1 Art Program

Ranked #1 best degree value compared to cost.
Best Value Schools (2025)

ART 1303 - Drawing I

Investigation of a variety of media, techniques, and subjects. Students develop perceptual, descriptive, and verbal skills with consideration of drawing as a conceptual process as well as an end in itself. Outside assignments. AP or portfolio waiver possible.

ART 2303 - 3D Design

Emphasis on the three-dimensional concept of design. Students learn to apply verbal skills needed in advanced visual arts. Outside assignments.

ART 2309 - Technology in the Arts

Introduces students to the Macintosh environment, digital input and output, scanning and preparing presentations, and related ethical issues.

ARTH 1301 - Art History Survey I

A survey of painting, sculpture, architecture, and the minor arts from prehistoric times to the 14th century. AP waiver possible.

Career Success Stories

Art alumni are shaping creative industries nationwide. See how our graduates are innovating, leading, and making an impact today.

J. Eric Simpson being interviewed by Panhandle PBS.

J. Eric Simpson '13

BFA in Studio Art

Creator of Tablelands Center for Bioregional Art in Shallowater, Texas

Tablelands Center for Bioregional Art
Emily Kimbro

Emily Kimbro '05

BFA in Graphic Design (formerly Communication Design)

Creative Director, Texas Monthly

Emily Kimbro

Career Paths & Salary Ranges

Art graduates pursue careers as designers, educators, and arts professionals, earning competitive salaries while applying creative skills across industries.

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Texas Tech Art students have access to scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities, helping make a world-class education in the arts more affordable.

All Scholarships

282K Awarded in Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to new students via portfolio or essay, ranging from $1,000–$6,000.

View Competitive Talent-Based Scholarships for Incoming Students

Incoming First-Year and Transfer Students

Complete STEP 2 of your Incoming Student Application to apply for School of Art scholarships.

View Incoming First-Year and Transfer Students details

Scholarship Universe

Admitted incoming students can find over 6,000 external scholarship opportunities.

View Scholarship Universe details

Our faculty and staff bring extensive professional experience, mentorship, and guidance, supporting students’ artistic growth, academic success, and career preparation. Contact your college recruiter to get started.

Faculty Directory Explore Our Facilities

Student Testimonials

Hear directly from our Art students about their experiences, creative growth, and how Texas Tech nurtures their talents and prepares them for successful careers.

Art Student Organizations

Studio Arts Minors

Choose a Studio Art minor in ceramics, drawing, jewelry design & metalsmithing, painting, printmaking, and/or sculpture.

Learn about Studio Arts Minors

Art History Minor

The Art History minor explores global art and visual culture, developing critical analysis, research skills, and historical context across diverse periods and traditions.

Learn about Art History Minor

Community-Focused Art Education Minor

The Art Education minor prepares students to teach and inspire through visual arts, combining studio practice with foundational pedagogy and classroom experience.

Learn about Community-Focused Art Education Minor

Fine Arts Photography Minor

The Fine Arts Photography minor develops technical and conceptual skills in analog and digital photography, encouraging creative exploration, visual storytelling, and portfolio development.

Learn about Fine Arts Photography Minor

Digital Narrative Arts Minor

The Digital Narrative Arts minor develops technical and conceptual skills in time-based media, digital drawing and painting, storytelling and worldbuilding, as well as professional industry skills, including IP development, video art, 2D/3D animation, character design and modeling, storyboarding, and graphic novel creation.

Learn about Digital Narrative Arts Minor

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Reach out to our team to learn more about the incredible opportunities at Texas Tech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Art program require a portfolio for admission?

A portfolio is not required for admission. However, the School of Art does require a portfolio review for select scholarships. Review the admissions criteria for further details.

When do I officially enter my major or emphasis?

Students begin as incoming art majors and later apply to specific BA or BFA emphasis areas through portfolio review and/or interview.

What kind of facilities and resources are available?

Students have access to specialized studios, a 3D Art Annex, and multiple galleries that host exhibitions and visiting artists.

View Facilities

Are there opportunities to exhibit my work?

Yes, the School of Art operates multiple galleries and hosts exhibitions, giving students real-world experience displaying their work.

Programs