Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, Interdisciplinary Studio Arts

The Interdisciplinary Studio Arts B.F.A. at Youngstown State University is your launchpad into the world of contemporary art. Whether you're drawn to ceramics, digital media, painting, photography, printmaking, or sculpture—this program is designed for curious, creative minds ready to blur boundaries, explore big ideas, and make meaningful work across disciplines.

If you’re seeking a program that pushes the limits of traditional art-making, this concentration offers a holistic approach to developing your creative practice. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, entrepreneurial thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration, you’ll gain the flexibility to blend art forms and explore innovative ways of creating. This program prepares you not only to succeed as an artist, but also as a creative professional across diverse industries. With a focus on hands-on experience and self-expression, you’ll be empowered to develop both your technical skills and personal voice.

Here’s what makes it special:

• Mix It Up
  Combine multiple media to tackle exciting, real-world topics across disciplines. From traditional techniques to experimental processes—you’ll do it all.
• ​Mentorship That Matters
  Work one-on-one with internationally recognized faculty mentors who support your unique vision and guide your creative growth.
• Career-Ready Curriculum
  Go beyond the studio with business classes and entrepreneurial training that prepare you for life after graduation—whether you’re a working artist, museum professional, entrepreneur, or part of the broader creative economy.
• ​Total Flexibility
  Customize your upper-division coursework to align with your personal and professional goals. You shape your degree based on what inspires you.
• Creative + Business Savvy
  With a required business minor and the option to add certifications in both art and business, you’ll graduate ready to stand out in today’s competitive creative industries.
• ​Think Bigger
  This program isn’t just about making beautiful work—it’s about engaging with ideas, building a career, and making a lasting impact on contemporary culture.

At YSU, we believe in providing a high-quality, forward-thinking education in the visual arts—one that opens doors and empowers you to thrive. When you graduate with a B.F.A. in Studio Art, you’ll leave with the skills, confidence, and creative vision to build a future that’s uniquely your own.

Contact information

To learn more about our degree programs, scholarships, professional development and careers, exhibitions, faculty, and students, visit Department of Art or contact us at 330.941.3627. 

To schedule a personalized campus visit, contact the Cliffe College of Creative Arts Program Coordinator of Admissions and Recruitment at 330.941.2346 or sawaltman@ysu.edu.

1) Students will be able to demonstrate their proficiency of art vocabulary.

2) Students will be able to demonstrate technical expertise appropriate to their
     progression in the program as it is relevant to their chosen artistic medium.

3) Students will be able to demonstrate a high level of content expression appropriate to
     their progression in the program as it is relevant to their chosen artistic medium.