Studio Arts

close up of someone painting

Bakersfield College's art discipline offers students a diverse range of courses in the visual arts, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. Our experienced and dedicated faculty provide a supportive learning environment where you can develop your artistic skills, expand your creativity, and discover your unique voice as an artist.

at studentWhat is Art?

The study of art is a broad field that encompasses various aspects of visual and performative arts, such as painting, sculpture, photography, music, theater, art history*, and dance, among others. It involves exploring the history, techniques, and styles of various art forms, as well as the cultural and social contexts in which they were created. The study of art also includes the analysis and interpretation of works of art and the examination of the role and impact of art in society.

We provide students with access to state-of-the-art equipment and resources, including studios and computer labs, enabling you to bring your visions to life.

In addition to developing your technical skills, as a student in the Bakersfield College art program, you will have opportunities to engage with the larger art community through exhibitions, visits to local galleries and museums, and guest lectures by professional artists.

Is Studying Art Right for Me?

Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in a variety of creative fields, and many have continued their studies at four-year institutions. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, our art program provides the foundation, inspiration, and resources you need to grow and succeed as an artist.

Some traits you may possess that determine if art is a good fit:

  • Passion for Art and Creating
  • Creativity and Imagination
  • Patience and Perseverance
  • Flexibility
  • Attention to detail

Ultimately, the best way to determine if art is a good fit is to explore your interests and try different forms of art to see what you enjoy most. It's also a good idea to speak with professionals in the field and gain experience through art classes or workshops.

Art Degrees and Certificates

person sitting at a computer with graphic design softward on the screen

The program is designed to prepare students for entry level positions in graphic design related fields such as: advertising, graphic design, illustration, and digital imaging.

female sitting at a computer video editing

The Bakersfield College Media Arts Program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in media arts. Visual communicators increasingly need media arts skills, and this program will provide entry-level competencies for a number of career paths, such as: videographer, photographer, motion graphics designer, animator, video editor, film editor, and filmmaker.

male holding a camera taking a picture

The program is designed to prepare students for entry level positions photography.

2 persons looking at designing materials on a table
The Bakersfield College Art Department wishes to expose students to study in a wide variety of media, and to prepare them to make societal contributions by becoming citizens who are visually literate, culturally aware, skilled in creative problem solving, and aesthetically sensitive.
BC students walking and talking on campus
Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

Careers in Art

The specific career options and opportunities available to an art student may depend on factors such as their area of specialization, experience, and location.

An art student can consider a variety of careers, including but not limited to:

  • Fine Artist
  • Graphic Designer
  • Illustrator
  • Multimedia Artist
  • Art Director
  • Art Teacher/Instructor
  • Museum Curator/Conservator
  • Exhibition Designer
  • Art Therapist
  • Art Conservator
  • Art Sales/Representative
  • Photography
  • Web/App Designer
  • Game Artist

Organizations that typically employ Art majors:

  • Adult & community programs
  • Advertising agencies, newspapers & trade publications
  • Apparel manufacturers/textile mills
  • Arts councils
  • Art schools
  • Art studios
  • Auction houses, photo agencies & studios
  • Department and retail stores
  • Film and motion pictures & media production companies
  • Governments - local, state, and federal
  • Graphic design firms
  • Hospitals
  • Interior design departments
  • Libraries
  • Local historical societies
  • Magazines
  • Museums and galleries
  • Newspapers/publishing houses
  • Universities

Transfer Pathways

Graduates with a Studio Arts AA-T at Bakersfield College may choose to continue their education at a university to earn a 4-year degree. As the Studio Arts AAT is an Associate in Arts for Transfer, students with this degree “are guaranteed admission with junior standing somewhere in the CSU system and given priority admission consideration to their local CSU campus or to a program that is deemed similar to their community major” (Bakersfield College Catalog, Educational Options). See your Counselor and/or a Transfer Specialist for specific questions, receive guidance, and explore your options.


Academic Department: Art

Career & Learning Pathway: Art, Communication, and Humanities (ACH)

Courses: Art classes (ART)


Not sure where to start? Let us help.

Meet with a Counselor

Take the right classes to meet your education and career goals. Create your Comprehensive Student Education Plan (CSEP) with your Counselor or Ed. Advisor.
Call (661) 395-4421.

Not sure about your career path?

Take the career quiz to discover the perfect career based on your personality type and interests.