Join a large, dynamic community of artists at one of the finest studio arts degree programs in Pennsylvania. At PennWest, we are makers. We value and encourage interdisciplinary study and nurture creative expression in a wide variety of media. With six concentrations to choose from, you’ll discover a world of creativity waiting for you.

When you study studio arts at PennWest, you are held to the same rigorous standards as the finest art programs in the nation. You will learn from highly educated, professionally accomplished faculty. They not only share their expertise with you, but they go out of their way to ensure your success.

Dedicated studio spaces become your home away from home as you hone your talents and acquire new skills. You’ll find yourself surrounded by like-minded students, and exceptional opportunities to express yourself.

During your time at PennWest, permanent, professional art galleries will provide a constant flow of inspiration. You will have numerous opportunities interact with visiting artists and speakers. You’ll also enjoy visiting—and participating in—regular exhibitions of student and faculty work,  joining a variety of welcoming and supportive student organizations and connecting with real-world experts through our internship programs.

Upon completion of your bachelor of fine arts degree, you’ll be ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a working artist or go on to earn a master’s degree in a related field from PennWest University.

There is no portfolio review prior to admission. Just bring your passion for the arts and a desire to work hard in a multidisciplinary, highly supportive environment.

This program is for you if...

  • You have a passion for the arts and desire to work hard in a multidisciplinary, supportive environment.
  • You're interested in exploring and expressing creativity across a wide range of media.
  • You seek rigorous standards of excellence akin to the finest art programs nationally.
  • You envision a career as a working artist or wish to pursue advanced degrees in the arts.
Locations
Locations
Credits
Credits
  • 120 Credits for BFA

What You'll Study

The curriculum is designed around six acclaimed concentrations, offering deep dives into ceramics, drawing & painting, illustration, jewelry & metals, sculpture, and wood/furniture design. Students benefit from dedicated studio spaces, professional galleries, and the chance to interact with visiting artists and participate in exhibitions. The program emphasizes both the acquisition of technical skills and the development of a personal aesthetic voice.

Program Study Image
Degrees Table
Degrees, Certificates, Minors Offered at...
  California Clarion Edinboro Global Online
Studio Arts, BFA Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Ceramics, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Drawing and Painting, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Illustration, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Jewelry and Metals, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Printmaking, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Sculpture, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Wood/Furniture Design, Minor Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Concentrations Table
Concentrations Campuses
  California Clarion Edinboro Global Online
Ceramics Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Drawing and Painting Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Illustration Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Illustration Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Jewelry and Metals Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Sculpture Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location
Wood/Furniture Design Program Not Offered At This Location Program Not Offered At This Location Program Offered At This LocationIn-Person Program Not Offered At This Location

Meet Our Faculty

Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.

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How You'll Learn

This is an in-person program. An in-person degree emphasizes traditional in-person courses at one or more of our locations.

More About Learning at PennWest

    What You'll Become

    Graduates are prepared to fulfill their dreams of becoming working artists or continuing their education with advanced degrees. The program equips students with a high level of proficiency in their chosen media, a comprehensive understanding of conceptual and expressive potentials, and the ability to integrate aesthetic principles into their work.

    Career Paths

    • Custom and production jewelry designer
    • Artist with private or commercial studios
    • Museum, gallery, or independent exhibition curator
    • Educator or administrator in arts education
    • Entrepreneur in the creative industries

    Ainsley Kissell

    Ainsley Kissell earns top honor at the 15th annual exhibition.

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    Ainsley Kissell

    How We'll Help You Succeed

    At Pennsylvania Western University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.

    100 Years

    PennWest Edinboro has a 100-year history of instruction in the visual arts and arts education.

    National Association of Schools of Art & Design

    Nationally accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD), which sets the standard for excellence in the field.

    View Accreditation
    • Affordable Programs

      Discover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.

      Tuition & Fees
    • Success Coaching

      Achieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.

      Success at PennWest
    • Post-Graduation Support

      We're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.

      Life After PennWest