School of Visual and Performing Arts
Art & Design and Music & Theatre
Explore the World of Art and Design
Program Leadership: Karrie Simpson Voth
For additional information, see our website at www.fhsu.edu/art/.
The Art and Design program offers degrees on the undergraduate and graduate levels to develop skills and creative expression within the basic areas of the visual arts. The Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art supports these programs by providing students with broad exposure to historical and contemporary exhibitions throughout the year.
As a student in the Art and Design program, grow in skill level and knowledge. Become part of an active community of student artists who enjoy producing their own artwork and collaborating on group projects. Work closely with mentor professors throughout your program who help you develop your talents and gain confidence as an artist.
As an art major at FHSU, do more -and sooner- than art majors at many schools, helping you develop the skills and work habits of a professional artist. You will have 24-hour access to a wide variety of facilities from the beginning of your college career to practice your skills and produce your art, including:
- Modern computer labs
- Accessible studios
- A foundry
As an arts-centered community, Hays offers great opportunities for your work to be exhibited in the active local art scene. We have three seasonal “Gallery Walks” every year in Hays, with fantastic community support. Also, be sure to view our digital art collection.
With the help of an experienced and accessible faculty, be prepared to work hard and have fun as you pursue your passion for art. We invite you to explore the Web site for more information, or contact us to speak with a faculty advisor.
Music and Theatre Program
Program Leadership: Benjamin Cline
For additional information, see our website at www.fhsu.edu/music-and-theatre
The Music and Theatre program at FHSU is unique: big enough to offer dozens of academic and performance opportunities, but small enough that student artists don’t become faces in the crowd. We understand that your dreams are as unique as you are; we’ll help you achieve them.
We offer academic programs in theatre, music education, performance, and composition. Additionally, all FHSU students can participate in ensembles and in opera and theatre productions, and lessons.
Music and Theatre at FHSU:
Musician. Composer. Actor. Designer. Music Teacher. Sound Engineer. No matter what your dream job in the field of music or theatre is, the Department of Music and Theatre at FHSU can help you get there: Programs that prepare. Our innovative teaching methods and unparalleled access to performance opportunities let you get the practice and experience you need to pursue your career in music. We also offer a broad, interdisciplinary course of study to prepare you for the many dimensions of the world of theatre.
Opportunities abound. We have vocal, instrumental and theatre opportunities for everyone, whether they want to devote their lives to music and theatre, or just want to be part of an ensemble or work behind the scenes. And unlike many schools, you don’t have to wait to get involved—you can start performing your first semester.
Financial Support. The department offers numerous scholarships. These are available to all students regardless of major.
Forging Friendships. The music and theatre students at FHSU are a tight group—they feel more like a family than just classmates.
Fantastic Faculty. Our nationally and internationally acclaimed faculty are deeply committed to your education and training as an aspiring artist.
We invite you to learn more about the Department of Music and Theatre:
- Check out our Performing Arts Calendar; it’s filled with musical performances and theatre productions.
- Explore the careers you might enjoy with a degree in music or theater.
- See how our department is committed to community service.
- Learn more about our active Student Organizations.
Bachelors
- Art | Bachelor of Arts: Art (Art History)
- Art | Bachelor of Arts: Art (Education)
- Art | Bachelor of Arts: Art (Studio Art)
- Art | Bachelor of Fine Arts: Art (Education)
- Art | Bachelor of Fine Arts: Art (Graphic Design)
- Art | Bachelor of Fine Arts: Art (Interior Design)
- Art | Bachelor of Fine Arts: Art (Photography)
- Art | Bachelor of Fine Arts: Art (Studio Art)
- Music | Bachelor of Arts: Performing Arts (Entrepreneurship)
- Music | Bachelor of Arts: Performing Arts (Music - Music Theatre)
- Music | Bachelor of Arts: Performing Arts (Music)
- Music | Bachelor of Music: Music (Composition)
- Music | Bachelor of Music: Music (Education)
- Music | Bachelor of Music: Music (Performance)
Minors
Certificates
- Certificate: Art History
- Certificate: Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BA Degree)
- Certificate: Arts Entrepreneurship (with a BFA Degree)
- Certificate: Basic Graphic Design
- Certificate: Basic Interior Design
- Certificate: Community Engaged Art
- Certificate: Motion Design Or Basic Motion Design
- Certificate: Photography
- Certificate: Studio Art
Masters
Art
Observational and alternative drawing skills explored through color drawing media. Personal narrative and concept development is emphasized. Required of art majors.
Introduction to 2-D design and composition. Required of all art and design majors.
Study of three-dimensional design using various materials of the craftsman. Required for art teachers.
A non-major course introducing the nature of the visual arts as it relates to human society today.
This is a General Education course for non-art majors and is a basic introduction to understanding the visual arts. Students will be introduced to the nature of the visual arts as it relates to human society today. In addition, students will learn about various art theories, as well as acquire a basic vocabulary with which to analyze, discuss, and write about art.
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit from studio courses.
A general survey of Art History from the prehistoric to medieval periods.
A general survey of art history from the prehistoric to medieval periods.
A general survey of art history from the Renaissance to contemporary periods.
A general survey of art history from the Renaissance to contemporary periods.
Understand the aesthetic factors of interior design including the historical backgrounds of interiors and furniture.
Exploration of traditional painting media.
Broad exploration in the techniques and methods of sculpture.
Exploration of architectural drawing and use of traditional symbols.
An introduction to graphic design focusing on the foundation of design through design principles and elements including methods of research, idea generation and image making. Topics over conceptual thinking and crative problem solving, application of design principles in communication, basic layout principles, use of typography and visual communication in different forms of graphic design and advertising. A focus will be plaed on the process of defining problems, gathering information and formulating clear, powerful, and persuasive visual concepts. Basic operating systems of Macintosh computers and Adobe Illustrator program will be deomonstrated.
This course demonstrates the fundamentals of photography using 35mm film. Students will learn to operate cameras, develop film, and properly handle chemicals to process prints in the darkroom. Using these skills, students will explore ideas of how to compose a photograph using proper lighting and developing concepts for image making.
An introduction to graphic design software and basic operating systems of Macintosh computers. Adobe software programs will be implemented as well as the use of print and photography in design.
This course helps students develop their critical mind and eye for photography, image making, and our visual world. Students will learn how to operate their digital cameras (DSLR or mirrorless), develop visual literacy, and discover an understanding of how modern photographs function. "Knowledge of photography is just as important as that of the alphabet. The illiterate of the future… will be a person ignorant of the use of the camera as well as the pen." Laszlo Moholy-Nagy (1895-1946)
Exploration of various techniques and methods of printmaking.
For interior designers, study of media and techniques used in architectural designs.
Exploration of techniques and methods of ceramics.
Observing the activities of a classroom in public schools. Required of all art education majors.
Explores personal creativity in life and community through the lens of contemporary art. For non-art majors.
This is a hands-on course that addresses community needs through socially engaged art practices.
Observational drawing explored using the human figure.
The understanding of kitchen and bathroom code requirements and ADA accessibility in designs.
The course provides an understanding of spatial planning, interior design, materiality, furniture design, and ornamentation from the ancient periods to modernism.
Investigation of color order systems, study of theories of color contrast and harmony.
This course will cover fabrication and blacksmithing practice for means of making functional and nonfunctional objects. The course will cover basic techniques for welding, cutting, forging, cold and hot fastening, and finishing of steel only. Proper tool use and safety will be a priority
Exploration of digital painting using the iPad with an emphasis placed on conceptual development.
This course explores the fundamentals of digital photography while teaching students how to operate digital cameras (DSLR or mirrorless). The students will learn how to use manual control for camera exposure, experiment with lighting, and create an artistic voice using a camera. For this course, a camera is required.
THis course further develops and adds to the skills learned in Graphic Design I. Students will explore a more advanced level of conceptual and visual design using creative solutions in print and packagin design to communicate an idea to a broad audience. Discussion and application of branding and promotional design as well as a fundamental understanding of cohesive campaigns, target audiences, team building, self evaluation, and professional presentation will be a focus.
This course introduces the discipline, function, and tradition of typography as it relates to visual communication. Exploration of typographic form and manipulation of variables which affect content stressing the importance of typographic composition as an integral component of visual communication. Projects examine both fundamental and advance structures of typographic form, space, grid structures, sequence and visual and informational hierarchy as it relates to print and packaging. History of typography, anatomy, and structure of letterforms and the development of hand lettering skills will also be integral components of the class.
An exploration of storytelling techniques through the lens of video production. Focus will be on editing techniques and workflows; developing technical camera and audio skills; and analysis of what makes a compelling story.
Intensive study in printmaking.
Human Factors explores the interaction of people and the interior environment, and theories, principles, and methods for optimizing human well-being and performance. This course emphasizes the study of ergonomics and anthropometrics, proxemics, universal design, design needs of special populations, and way finding.
In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamental concepts required for the design and drafting of commercial interior space and planning by working through the steps required for a commercial project. By the end of the semester, a set of construction/technical drawings will be prepared and presented.
Intensive study of ceramic form and technique.
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit from studio courses.
Developing additional competence in painting.
Advanced analysis and skill building of analog forms of animation. Projects will explore a variety of traditional animation techniques.
Expanding on the prerequisite, Black and White Photography I, students will continue to improve their analog film skills by developing film, making prints, and learning more advanced photographic techniques. For this course, a film camera is required.
An exploration of the history of animation. Projects will focus on the development of skills in various traditional, accessible forms of animation.
Developing additional competence in printmaking.
Developing additional competence in ceramics.
Subjects in art which are not dealt with in the regular curriculum.
Student participation in planning, teaching, and administering art programs.
Research, reading, and evaluation of art historical problems.
This course will provide an overview of portfolio development of prior and ongoing design projects. Students prepare, develop, and expand a portfolio of projects while exploring creative and practical techniques to enhance the marketability and appeal of their digital portfolio.
Survey of major art movements of 18th and 19th-century Europe with emphasis on their influence upon 20th century art.
Survey of the major art movements from 1900 to the present.
An exploration of the relationship between graphic design and its audience, analysis of the evolution of form or visual attributes, and the study of the social and economic impact of design. The course will provide a conceptual and pictorial view of significant stages in the development of graphic design through in-depth study of stylistic periods and pioneers of graphic design.
Survey of late modern and contemporary art forms.
This course will showcase senior interior design student work, create a vignette in the gallery showcasing understanding of design, and provide staging experience. This course will also complete research towards a project that will lead into Capstone II.
This studio course serves as the second part of the capstone sequence dedicated to the schematic design, design development, and visualization phase of a complex Interior Design project.
This course explores topics, concepts, and practices of innovative study and technique in the interior design industry. Research topics may include but are not limited to, interior landscape, adaptive design & SMART technology, outdoor living, waste management, and green design, etc.
Students will plan, design, install, and promote an art exhibition of portfolio-quality work in a gallery setting.
Students will plan, design, intall, and promote an art exhibition of portfolio-quality work in a gallery setting.
This is a hands-on course that addresses community needs through socially engaged art practices.
This is a hands-on course that addresses community needs through socially engaged art practices.
Individual study for a major concentration in drawing.
Individual study for a major concentration in painting.
Individual study for a major concentration in painting.
Individual study for a concentration in sculpture.
Students will continue to develop their techniques gained in the prerequisite, Introduction to Digital Photography. This course allows students to further develop their understanding of photography through conceptual project ideas, color theory in relation to photographic images, and a variety of other photography ideas. For this course, a camera is required.
Students will continue to develop their techniques gained in the prerequisite, Introduction to Digital Photography. This course allows students to further develop their understanding of photography through conceptual project ideas, color theory in relation to photographic images, and a variety of other photography ideas. For this course, a camera is required.
This course further develops and adds to the skills learned in Graphic Design III, focusing on larger and more advanced projects including print, packaging, and multimedia to create cohesive conceptual-based visual projects that can communicate an idea to a target audience. Emphasis will be on creating portfolio-quality projects, professionalism of the final pieces as well as professional presentations and self-evaluation.
This course further develops and adds to the skills learned in Graphic Design III, focusing on larger and more advanced projects including print, packaging, and multimedia to create cohesive conceptual-based visual projects that can communicate an idea to a target audience. Emphasis will be on creating portfolio-quality projects, professionalism of the final pieces as well as professional presentations and self-evaluation.
Emphasis will be on creating portfolio-quality projects, professionalism of the final pieces as well as professional presentations and self-evaluation. Instruction in the organization and presentation of a professional quality portfolio to obtain an internship or job opportunity within the field of graphic design.
Emphasis will be on creating portfolio-quality projects, professionalism of the final pieces as well as professional presentations and self-evaluation. Instruction in the organization and presentation of a professional quality portfolio to obtain an internship or job opportunity within the field of graphic design.
An exploration of the graphic design field, from major design industries to design disciplines, the study of significant career development issues, and the creation of an optimum portfolio and marketing strategy in preparation for future employment opportunities
This course emphasizes digital application as an alternative media and implementation to traditional graphic design. The extensive use of the creative conceptual process and design principles such as typography, composition, and color to communicate ideas will be fully implemented.
This course is an expansion on digital media with an introduction of other related software. The full integration of the software will allow students to create a variety of applications such as professional interactive presentations, web design, animated interface, and DVD.
Individual study for a major concentration in printmaking.
Investigation of materials, projects, and methods for the classroom.
Individuals study for a major concentration in some field of design which may include practicum experience.
Individuals study for a major concentration in some field of design which may include practicum experience.
Research and experimentation in design as a major or minor concentration.
Research and experimentation in ceramics as a major or minor concentration.
Subjects in art which are not dealt with in the regular curriculum. Graduate-level work expected.
Intensive reading, critical research and evaluation of art historical problems.
In-depth study of major art movements in 18th and 19th century Europe with emphasis on their
influence upon 20th-century art.
In-depth study of major western art movements from 1900 to the present.
In-depth study of philosophical concepts of art and the development of a concise view of creativity.
Final project for the completion of the graduate degree program. Student required to have formal exhibition.
Music
Approaches to performing roles in musical stage productions. Preparation and performance of scenes from opera and music theatre repertoire by members of the class.
This course is designed to teach students how to perform in a small jazz group.
Techniques and materials for specialized instruction in performance. Special fees: lab fees.
Orchestrating for separate string, woodwind, and brass choirs, and mixed ensembles including voice.
Specialized topics of narrow scope which lend themselves to presentation as short courses in music education, music theory, music literature, and music history.
A survey of piano repertoire from 1700 to the present.
A survey of the canon of literature, with an emphasis on stylistic practices, analysis, and interpretation as they relate to teaching and performance.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization
Performance for graduate students in a principle performing medium. Special fees: lab fees.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Performance for graduate students in a principle performing medium. Special fees: lab fees.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
Advanced study in the area of the student’s performance specialization.
An introduction to the principles of research in music. An overview of systems of musical analysis, conventions of music literacy, and historical approaches to musical synthesis.
Advanced composition in larger instrumental and vocal media.
The course will provide students the opportunity to study the various historical topics of jazz, including jazz vocabulary, style periods, influential musicians, significant compositions, and aspects of improvisation and jazz theory. Students will learn to be discriminating listeners and consumers of jazz while understanding the historical, social, and cultural influences of the genre. In particular, the fusion of cross-cultural elements of European music, African music, and Latin American music to produce jazz will be explored. The course will consist of independent research of historical documentaries, textbook, influential jazz musicians, jazz recordings, and improvised solos.
Theatre
An introduction to how theatre works. Students will be exposed to theatre history, playscripts, and the process of producing plays.
Introduction to skills necessary for development of individual acting tools. Vocal and physical work, script analysis, freeing the imagination, and getting acquainted with the concept of "performance."
Course is created to receive transfer credit equivalent to the Systemwide Voice & Diction
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit from performance courses.
Analysis and production of a dramatic work. Involves rehearsal of play and participation in the final production.
This course is designed to receive non-equivalent elective transfer credit from performance courses.
Contents vary. Examples: (A) advanced scene work (B) production of a period play. May be repeated for credit if subject matter is different each time.
Contents vary. Practical solving of staging problems specific to particular theatrical genres, periods of history, and types of playscripts.