Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts, you’ll hone your skills and build a strong portfolio as you cultivate your passion to pursue graduate school or a career as a professional artist. You’ll forge a strong background in studio practice and art history to prepare your mind, practice, and portfolio for a vibrant career in the arts. You’ll explore ways images and art can serve culture in rich and diverse ways—whether as practical designs for business clients or as artistic expressions of spiritual meaning.
Contact us
Request info
Interested in learning more about Bethel's bachelor of fine arts major?
Hey! Looks like the form didn't load. If it doesn't load after a second or two, please refresh the page and you should see it. If that doesn't work, please let us know.
Connect with a counselor
They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.
Courses and skills
What skills will I develop?
By pursuing a B.F.A, you’ll develop the skills to be a well-rounded person, not just a well-rounded artist.
Studio mastery
Refine your skills in drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and more as you hone your artistic voice and vision.
Professional practice
Develop skills for a successful career as a professional artist. You’ll learn to write grants and exhibition proposals, build a web presence, and how to develop project applications.
Creative problem-solving
Explore innovative approaches to artistic challenges, fostering originality and adaptability.
Communication skills
Effectively convey ideas and emotions through visual mediums, and engage in conversations with artists.
Critical thinking
Analyze, interpret, and critique art, and understand physical and conceptual aspects of making art in two and three-dimensions.
Cultural competence
Learn about historical and contemporary art movements, theory, and expand your artistic perspective and cultural sensitivity.
Academic plans
Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.
Learning opportunities
What experiences will I have?
Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, study abroad, apply what you’ve learned, and gain. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.
Exhibitions and recognition
Showcase your artwork in exhibitions such as "Raspberry Monday," student-curated shows, and senior exhibitions. Earn recognition and awards, including opportunities for professional exhibition features and publication in esteemed art magazines.
Professional networking
Connect with artists on a regional and national level, receiving valuable mentorship and building relationships that can shape your artistic career.
Study abroad opportunities
You’ll be able to study around the world through trips over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer. One great example is Textura, a collaborative project trip where you’ll research, write, and photograph for an award-winning magazine. You have the chance to study art abroad in diverse locations, experiencing and learning from new cultures and artistic traditions.
Real-world impact
What can I do with a bachelor of fine arts degree?
You’ll invest in studio practices and art history required of the B.F.A. to form a strong base for graduate school and a professional life as a working artist.
Thrive as a professional studio artist
Prepare for a fulfilling career as a professional studio artist. Your intensive training in various media and techniques will equip you to create impactful and meaningful art.
Graduate school
Your comprehensive studio practice and art history knowledge will set you apart in competitive graduate programs. Follow in the footsteps of alumni who have studied at prestigious grad schools.
Diverse creative industries
Pursue exciting careers in animation, architecture, fashion design, film and video production, furniture design, liturgical art, product design, and entrepreneurship.
Academic and teaching opportunities
Leverage your expertise to teach, shaping the next generation of artists and creators. You can add a second major in teaching or pursue an advanced degree in education.
Unique career paths
Explore unique career opportunities in intellectual property law, music and entertainment, and other creative industries.
Skills for any field
Your art background, combined with critical thinking and problem-solving skills, will make you a valuable asset in diverse professional environments.
Start your journey
Explore Bethel for yourself
Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.
Faculty mentors
Meet your professors
You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.
Student Support
Your support team
At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.
Career coaching and preparation
A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.
Academic advising
No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.
Tutoring and academic support
The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.
Faith formation
As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.
Accessible education
Tuition and financial aid
We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.
Become A Bethel Student
Apply now
You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.
Find your fit
Explore related programs
Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.
Explore the full lists: