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

Cost

$11,710

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

Primary Locations

Nampa Campus

Ada County Center

Close up of art student working on a 3D project in art lab

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.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Studio Art – Associate of Arts Degree
2 Years

AA

Cost:
$11,710

Let's Get Started

Artist painting in studio

Career Opportunities

1063

Annual Openings*

$
35.10

Hourly Median Wage*

$
73,008

Annual Median Salary

18.28
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.

28

Annual Openings*

$
9.38

Hourly Median Wage*

$
19,510

Annual Median Salary

15.44
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

All artists and related workers not listed separately.

25

Annual Openings*

$
9.82

Hourly Median Wage*

$
20,425

Annual Median Salary

41.26
%

Growth (2025 – 2035)*

*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. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Academic Calendar New Student Checklist

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Clubs

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News

Image of the Tempest Promotional flyer in front of a green backdrop

Join the College's Visiting Artist Series in welcoming Idaho Shakespeare Festival back to campus on Tuesday, Feb. 17, for a performance of The Tempest and an acting workshop.

Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes 2026 Idaho Shakespeare Festival
Headshot of Jill Storey

Join CWI's Visiting Artist Series in welcoming artist Jill Storey to campus on Feb. 26 – 27.

Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Jill Storey
Four people pose together in front of a wooden wall illuminated by colorful, projected light patterns at night.

CWI faculty and students brought creativity and innovation to the spotlight during Illuminate 2025 at Surel’s Place in Garden City, showcasing sculpture, projection art, and photography.

Read more about CWI Students and Faculty Shine at Illuminated 2025
Students in library with text: Zero Textbook Costs. Same Quality Education. | Powered by CWI's Z-Degree.

Since launching in fall 2023, CWI's Z-degree initiative has provided students with an affordable, accessible path to completing their education, saving them more than $2 million in...

Read more about CWI Students Save Over $2 Million Through Z-Degree
Students and a lion mascot applaud as a new sculpture is unveiled.

College of Western Idaho students brought color and creativity to campus by painting a heart sculpture now on display at Nampa Campus, part of CBH Homes’ Hearts Across the Valley public...

Read more about CWI Students Help Bring “Hearts Across the Valley” to Campus
A grid of different artworks

Celebrate the artistic and academic achievements of College of Western Idaho’s 2025 Studio Art graduates at the exhibit, Converging Connections, through May 12.

Read more about Converging Connections: 2025 CWI Capstone Artist Exhibition
A photo of artist Joseph Haskin

College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Visiting Artist Series welcomes Joseph Haskin to CWI's Nampa Campus Academic Building for an artist lecture on Wednesday, April 23.

Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Joseph Haskin
An artistic mixed media print

College of Western Idaho faculty from the Studio Arts program will have their work featured in installations throughout the 2025 Treefort Music Fest, taking place across downtown Boise, ID...

Read more about CWI Studio Arts Students and Faculty Featured at Treefort 2025

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Locations

Program QR Code

URL: https://cwi.edu/academics/academic-transfer/studio-art<br>