Studio Arts

The Studio Art program at Bakersfield College invites students to explore their creativity through hands-on practice in drawing, painting, sculpture, and more. Whether you’re developing your artistic voice or preparing to transfer to a four-year institution, our program provides the foundational skills and critical thinking needed for a successful future in the visual arts. For students interested in specialized areas such as art history, photography, graphic design, or media arts, we also offer focused degree and certificate programs on their own dedicated pages.

What is Studio Art?

Studio Art is the practice of creating visual works through traditional and contemporary methods, including drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media. It emphasizes the development of personal expression, technical skills, and a deep understanding of visual language. Students also gain insight into the cultural and historical contexts of art, laying the groundwork for both artistic and academic growth.

Is Studio Art Right for Me?

If you enjoy expressing ideas visually, experimenting with materials, and engaging with the world through a creative lens, Studio Art may be a great fit for you. This program is ideal for individuals who are imaginative, detail-oriented, self-motivated, and open to feedback. Whether your passion lies in fine arts or you’re considering related fields like graphic design or media arts, studying Studio Art can sharpen your creative skills and expand your artistic potential.

Studio Art Degree

Studio Arts Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)

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.

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.

I Can Afford College

Careers in Studio Art

A background in Studio Art can lead to a wide range of careers in the arts and creative industries. Many students use the program as a stepping stone toward transferring to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree in art or a related field. 

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)