Studio Arts

What 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

Graphic Design Certificate of Achievement

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.

Media Arts Certificate of Achievement

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.

Photography Certificate of Achievement

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

Studio Arts Associate in Arts for Transfer

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 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.

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)