Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting

Develop your artistic voice with a BFA in Painting

Painting has long been a cornerstone of artistic practice, offering a powerful medium for personal expression, cultural commentary, and creative exploration. At Indiana University Southeast, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting allows you to master both traditional and contemporary techniques as you develop your unique artistic voice.

Through immersive studio practice and individualized faculty mentorship, you’ll build essential skills in oil and acrylic painting, including paint application, surface preparation, glazing, color theory, and composition. You’ll also explore drawing and digital imaging techniques that expand your visual language and help you communicate more effectively as an artist. From representation and abstraction to experimental image-making, you’ll be challenged to push boundaries and create work that is both technically sound and conceptually rich.

Work in a dedicated studio designed for painters

Painting students at IU Southeast benefit from a 1,589-square-foot studio equipped to meet professional standards. The studio features natural northern light, adjustable artificial lighting, 24-hour access, and essential tools like easels, flat work shelving, large tables, lockers, and stainless-steel sinks.

Upper-level students are provided with individual studio spaces to complete their senior thesis work. Two Macintosh computer stations and an overhead digital projection system support the integration of digital tools and techniques. Studio fees help provide high-quality supplies, including canvas, stretchers, primers, mediums, encaustic materials, and more, so you can stay focused on your creative process.

With this professional environment and expert guidance, you’ll gain the experience and confidence to thrive in today’s art world.

Application and tuition information

Online application

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Scholarships

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Tuition information

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Career Information

Graduates of the BFA in Painting program at IUS are prepared for a range of creative paths. Career opportunities include:

  • Studio Artist
  • Gallery Artist
  • Illustrator
  • Art Educator
  • Muralist
  • Art Handler or Preparator
  • Exhibition Designer
  • MFA Candidate in Studio Art

With a strong portfolio, technical skill set, and conceptual grounding, you’ll be equipped to pursue professional studio practice, graduate study, or creative roles across the arts and design industries.

Degree Information

120 Credit hours
Minimum culumulative GPA of 2.0
In-person

Degree requirements

Please visit the IU Southeast Bulletin website for specific degree requirements.

Kentucky residents

Kentucky students are part of our IU Southeast family. In fact, students from eight Kentucky counties receive in-state tuition through our reciprocity program, students from non-reciprocity Kentucky counties qualify for reduced tuition through our Indiana Partners Program, and all Kentucky students may qualify for the KEES Match Scholarship! Learn more about the advantages of attending IU Southeast, including the lowest four-year tuition rate in the region, staying close to home while you earn your degree, and the unique experience only IU Southeast can offer.

Get in-state tuition for Kentuckians Apply for our KEES Match scholarship

Interested in learning more or ready to apply?

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