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

$11,710

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.

Areas of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Studio Art – Associate of Arts Degree

2

YEARS

AA

Degree Requirements

Cost: $11,710

Artist painting in studio

Career Opportunities

  • 1063

    Annual Openings*

    $35.10

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $73,008

    Annual Median Salary

    18.28%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, 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

Admissions

Step 1

Step 2

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

Clubs

Different shades of a teal silhouette of bob ross with a paintbrush with the words art club on it
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

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

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

Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Joseph Haskin

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 March 26...

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

College of Western Idaho's (CWI) Visiting Artist Series welcomes Agnes Ma to CWI's Nampa Campua Academic Building for an artist lecture on...

Read more about Visiting Artist Series Welcomes Agnes Ma

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
View all news

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