Celebrate the artistic achievements CWI Studio Art graduates at the Emerging Visions exhibit at Boise State University.
Read more about View Work by CWI Studio Art Graduates at Boise State University GalleryStudio Art
Unleash Creativity and Explore the World of Visual Culture and Its History
Program Overview
Are you ready to unleash your creativity and explore the world of visual arts? The Studio Art program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers a fertile ground for budding artists like you. This Associate of Arts degree program provides a robust foundation in the techniques and materials of visual art while expanding your understanding of visual culture and its history. Whether your interests lie in art education, art therapy, museum studies, photography, design, or becoming a studio artist, this program is an ideal starting point.
You will learn from professional art faculty who are recognized locally and nationally, receiving a high degree of individual coaching and mentoring. The capstone course offers professional development opportunities typically found in the fourth year of most transfer programs, preparing you for a successful artistic career. This program also offers engagement with visiting artists, opportunities to exhibit on campus and local galleries, and optional participation in the Art Club.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Learning Opportunities
- Expert Mentorship: Receive guidance from professional art faculty, enhancing your artistic skills and vision.
- Diverse Artistic Techniques: Gain a strong foundation in various visual art techniques and materials.
- Professional Development: Engage in opportunities that prepare you for the professional art world, including portfolio development and website creation.
- Community & Networking: Participate in the Art Club, visiting artist programs, and internships, building networks in the art community.
- Exhibition Opportunities: Showcase your work in campus and local galleries, gaining exposure and experience.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Studio Art – Associate of Arts Degree
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1434
Annual Openings*
$35.69
Hourly Median Wage*
$74,235
Annual Median Salary
45.6%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.
72
Annual Openings*
$9.05
Hourly Median Wage*
$18,824
Annual Median Salary
59.31%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Artists and Related Workers, All Other
All artists and related workers not listed separately.
18
Annual Openings*
$10.59
Hourly Median Wage*
$22,027
Annual Median Salary
24.33%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.
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"To me, it’s all about what I can do with my artwork to help raise up an environment for students to feel creative and not pull back from creative pursuits." Read more > about Using the Power of Creativity to Inspire
"I think the art teachers you have at CWI are absolutely amazing! It's thanks to all of you that I am majoring in art and considering pursuing a career in art. You all have shaped my art abilities and given me confidence, and, for that, I am very grateful."
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Studio Art as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Clubs
Art Club
Are you an artist in search of an artistic outlet? Join fellow artists in College of Western Idaho's Art Club! We are here to help and enrich and foster your interest for art and personal expression through art.
News
Join CWI's Visiting Artist Series in welcoming artist, John Flores, to the campus on Tuesday, Nov. 14, and Wednesday, Nov. 15 for a lecture and a workshop.
Read more about Visiting Artist Series: John Flores
Join CWI’s Visiting Artist Series in welcoming the performing group, Flamenco Idaho, on Friday, Oct. 27, for a performance and a workshop.
Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Flamenco Idaho
The Campus Garden provides a valuable resource to the CWI community, from educating students about agriculture best practices to helping feed those who suffer from food insecurity.
Read more about Campus Garden Supporting Students and Their Success
Join College of Western Idaho’s Visiting Artist Series in welcoming photographer, Jessie Swimeley, to campus.
Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Jessie Swimeley
CWI Studio Art students and faculty judged the Nampa Festival of Arts’ Juried Arts Competition
Read more about CWI Celebrates Arts and Culture at the Nampa Festival of the Arts
Studio Art students are getting real-world insight into what life may be like as a professional artist and the steps to get there!
Read more about Visiting Artist Series: Erin Cunningham
Congratulations to Khanh Dang who won the 2023 Connections Project’s Juried Art Exhibition!
Read more about Dang Named Best in Show
Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of College of Western Idaho’s 2023 Studio Art graduates at the exhibit, Allusions, through May 7.
Read more about Allusions: CWI Capstone Collection
College of Western Idaho's Studio Art students are getting real-world insight into what life may be like as a professional artist and the steps to get there!
Read more about Visiting Artist Series Setting Art Students Up for Success
College of Western Idaho Studio Art student, Caleb Chereji, spends his hours in between classes creating art murals on whiteboards around campus to inspire and make people smile.
Read more about Using the Power of Creativity to Inspire
Join artist, Kelly Cox, as she discusses as she discusses ceramic sculpture and facilitates a clay hand-building and botanical drawing demonstration.
Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Kelly CoxRequest More Information
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