Explore the creative process and see the world in new ways.
The School of Art + Art History + Design engages students in an interdisciplinary, collaborative exploration of the creative process, visual history and socially responsible design. Our classrooms and studios encourage experimentation, creative thinking, critical dialogue and research. Students’ creative and academic work is recognized through scholarships, awards, exhibitions and public presentations. Four galleries exhibit student work, including the Jacob Lawrence Gallery (named after the famed artist and UW faculty member), which is devoted to education, social justice and experimentation. Our faculty are nationally and internationally recognized artists, scholars and designers who exhibit, publish and lecture globally.
Undergraduate Programs
Careers
Our students graduate with the confidence and critical problem-solving skills needed for success across a diverse set of fields. The school’s faculty frequently collaborate with arts organizations, nonprofit institutions and businesses, providing students with opportunities to engage in the arts communities off campus.
Career Paths
School of Art + Art History + Design alumni pursue a wide range of careers, including:
- Fine artist
- Graphic designer
- Art director
- Museum curator
- Gallery manager
- Digital collections archivist
- Videographer and photographer
- Arts organization director
- Fashion designer
- Film and digital animation specialist
- Product designer
- Art conservator
- Art appraiser
- User Experience (UX) designer
- Educator
- Marketing and advertising professional
- Gallery owner
- Nonprofit leader
Explore art and design in an international context
The school’s faculty-led study abroad programs and Exploration Seminars provide students with global learning experiences in Italy, London and the Netherlands. In addition to programs directly affiliated with the school, students can choose from hundreds of other international opportunities offered through the UW Study Abroad Office.
Find Yourself in Art + Art History + Design
Develop your creativity and critical thinking in a stimulating, collaborative and supportive environment.
School of Art + Art History + Design Stories
Two Majors, Complementary Skills
Elizabeth Xiong (2024), a double major in art history and computer science, shares how she gained different and complementary skills from each major.
A Gallery Renovation, Inspired by Jacob Lawrence
With an Art Building renovation, the Jacob Lawrence Gallery will better reflect its namesake, whose paintings about the Black experience have inspired generations.
An Animated Life
Nathan Jones (2015) tells stories through animation. Both of his UW degrees — creative writing and art — are reflected in is his work.