Department of Art is now Department of Art and Design
JONESBORO – In recognition of its role as a progressive hub for interdisciplinary education and creative work, Department of Art at Arkansas State University has a new name: the Department of Art and Design.
The Board of Trustees approved the change, which took effect July 1.
"The change reflects the growth that the Art Department, historically among the state's most productive, has seen in recent years," explained Curtis Steele, department chair. "The size and complexity of the department have increased to a point they exceed the boundaries of a typical art department. The revised name more accurately identifies the disciplines within."
Graphic and digital design makes up more than half of the student population in the department. The new name demonstrates the scale and professionalism the students have grown into.
In addition to allowing room for continued growth, the new name also better describes the department’s purpose, Steele explained.
"Department of Art and Design more clearly encompasses what they do, as design is a major part of the curriculum. The national accrediting agency for academic programs in the arts bears the name National Association of Schools of Art and Design."
Dr. Carl Cates, dean of the college, also reflected on the positive impact of the change.
"I am pleased to see the growth in scope and opportunity for the department," he said. "This change in name reflects the continued attention of our faculty members and the A-State community to serve the students' best interest."
The Department of Art and Design offers three separate degree programs: the Bachelor of Fine Arts in art, with emphases in art education and studio art (drawing, ceramics, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture); the Bachelor of Fine Art in graphic design, and the Bachelor of Fine Art in graphic design: digital design emphasis; and the Bachelor of Arts in art: art history emphasis.
Most of the degrees offered by the Department of Art and Design are specialized professional programs typical of those taught in the context of a department of art and design.
For more information, contact the Department of Art and Design at (870) 972-3050.
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