Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Studio Arts
Get a competitive edge in the job market with an internship at an art studio, production company, gallery or museum.
As a Studio Arts major, you will investigate the Arts through the lenses of studio art, art history, and professional practice, as well as explore the interdisciplinary nature of the Arts through coursework and experiential learning.
Studio Arts Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
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Spring Open House
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
from 1:00 pm
to 4:00 pm
At our Spring Open House, you'll attend academic breakout sessions, connect with members of our community, and take a tour of our beautiful New England campus.
The Studio Arts Major
Our new Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Studio Arts is designed for students who have a keen understanding of both the art world and the larger contextual society in which it operates.
Your studies will combine craft-based skills and techniques, academic research, and creative practice with communal and experiential learning. You will learn to sharpen your critical-thinking abilities, master a wide range of artmaking skills and techniques, and embody an in-depth understanding of the historical and contemporary art world.
What You'll Study
As a studio arts major, you can plan to study a variety of artistic practices and techniques, including:
Art History
Drawing and Painting
Illustration
Photography
Design
Mixed Media
Sculpture
Installation Art
Curatorial Practices
Performance Art
Skills You'll Learn
Courses in the B.A. in Studio Arts emphasize developing enduring skills applicable across diverse industries and careers, making graduates highly desirable to employers. Skills include:
Observational Skills
Ability to Work in a Team
Written Communication
Artmaking Skills and Techniques
Understanding of Art History
Entrepreneurial Skills
Flexibility and Adaptability
Attention to Detail
Studio Arts Courses You'll Take
art & material Culture I
ART 1610
This course introduces students to participating in an extensive examination of selected works of art and architecture and the historical and cultural contexts appropriate to them, from the birth of image-making to the high culture of the late Middle Ages.
Intro to 3D: Form, Space, Materiality
ART 2230
In this course, students will develop an understanding of the three fundamental principles of three-dimensional artwork: form, space, and materiality. These principles form the groundwork for all three-dimensional design, planning, and more.
A Cultural History of Photography
ART 3420
The various social and material uses, styles, and genres of photography are discussed within social, political and aesthetic dimensions that have occurred in the medium from its conception, as well as drawing parallels between this history and contemporary issues.
See All Courses & Options Available to Studio Arts Majors
Studio Arts Major Requirements
General Education Requirements
In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in Studio Arts?
CUSTOMIZED STUDIES
Our program enables you to tailor your major by choosing courses that align with your passions. After completing foundational to advanced-level studio art and interdisciplinary courses, you can layer art history courses that complement your practice into your studies.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Advance through the program with a cohort, building peer support and forming lifelong friendships with fellow students who share your passion for the arts.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
You'll gain hands-on experience with various materials and techniques, from painting and sculpture to digital media, which can enhance your artistic skills.
PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO WORK
The studio arts major helps you build a strong portfolio, which is essential for pursuing jobs in creative fields or applying to graduate programs.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Merrimack Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.
Experiential Learning
84% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack
Graduate School
Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.
Jobs with a Studio Arts Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in humanities and related disciplines. Studio art major jobs have a diverse range of career options. Positions may include:
- Illustrator
- Art Conservationist
- Art Gallery Manager
- Animator
- Interior and Spatial Designer
- Museum Curator
- Exhibition Preparator
- Concept Artist
Beyond the Classroom
Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 70+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities
Internships & Co-Ops
Our students gain valuable work experience and connections with leading companies through guaranteed internships and the Warriors at Work co-op program. Recent placements include:
- Interning with Homeland Security Investigations, shadowing special agents
- Interning at Delta Tech-Ops, working in components engineering
- Working as a tax intern at Baker Tilly
Research with Faculty
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate student can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
- Explore the complexities of the human mind in a state-of-the-art psychology lab.
- Understand the effect inflammation has on immune cell aging in our Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility.
- Build fully functional battle bots for competitions.
Study Abroad
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
- Explore and study in the Dominican Republic or Iceland.
- Immerse yourself in cities like Dublin, Madrid or Rome.
- Experience a semester at sea or intern in vibrant cities like London or Paris.
Service Learning
Community and service are at the heart of our Augustinian mission.
Over 1,000 students work together to engage in hands-on service learning projects each year, supporting our communities and those in need.
- Participate in our campus-wide Mack Gives Back volunteer days.
- Spend your winter, spring, or summer break on an immersive SEND trip in the U.S. or abroad helping those in need.
- Tutor students in nearby school districts.
See for Yourself
Programs Related to the Studio Arts Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events
Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
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