Studio Art

Unleash Creativity and Explore the World of Visual Culture and Its History

Art student drawing in classroom

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

$9,030

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

2 years

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.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Studio Art – Associate of Arts Degree

2

YEARS

AA

Artist painting in studio

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)*

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*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.

“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
Caleb Chereji
Student, Studio Art
“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.”
Larissa Smith
Student, Studio Art

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

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

Clubs

person painting
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

The College's Visiting Artist Series is welcoming multidisciplinary artist Roland Becerra Thursday and Friday, Sept. 12 – 13, for a lecture and workshop.

Read more about Visiting Artist Series: Roland Becerra

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 Gallery

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

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
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One Stop Student Services

208.562.3000onestop@cwi.eduLocations