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Southwest Minnesota State University · Courses

ART

42 courses with the subject ART, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.

ART 100Introduction to Visual Arts3

Designed to introduce the basic studies student to the attitudes and philosophies that relate to creative production in the visual arts and to help develop a positive attitude to the arts through the study of theory, styles of art history, structure and periods of art combined with an active art gallery program.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 102Foundations of Art & Design 2D3

In this course students explore the visual elements and the organizing principles of design in a 2D context. Various media will be used in studio assignments that investigate concepts covered in lectures and readings. A vocabulary will be established that will enable students to discuss their works in a group setting.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 103Foundations of Art and Design 3D3

An introduction to three-dimensional design, this course covers vocabulary and basic principles of art through a series of practical assignments designed to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will work with various media and studio production methods to produce 3D work. Analysis of work will involve group discussion and formal critiques.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 150Art History I3

A survey of major artists, work and style movements from the Ancient through Medieval periods in Western art. Topics include: prehistoric, Greek, and Roman in the Ancient era; and early Christian, Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic in the Medieval era. The goal of the course is to help students become critical observers of the different historical style periods that shaped the Western tradition in the arts by a variety of media including painting, sculpture, decorative arts, and architecture.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 151Art History II3

A survey of the major movements, key artists, and art theories appearing in the visual arts from the 14th Century to the present. Topics will include the Renaissance, Mannerism, Baroque Period, Rococo Period, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Op Art, Minimalism, and Conceptualism.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 208Artists Course1

This is an in depth study of the art works of one artist, artistic school, or movement from a select historical period and/or geographical region.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 209Artists:3

This is an in depth study of the art works of one, two, or three artists, artistic schools or movements from select historical periods and/or geographical regions.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 220Drawing4

An introduction to a wide range of basic drawing approaches and materials. This course is designed to develop the quality of students drawings. Students will explore how formal elements, techniques, and materials combine with cognitive meaning. Advanced students will focus on self-directed projects and the development of significant content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 221Painting4

An introduction to basic painting techniques and materials, focused on developing students painting skills. Students will explore how formal elements, techniques, and materials combine with cognitive meaning. Advanced students will focus on self-directed projects and the development of significant content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 230Sculpture4

To further students understanding of the three-dimensional form in space, and their ability to create and present it through creating methods, materials, tools, and techniques. Processes covered include: additive, subtractive, assemblage, fabrication, molds, and metal casting. The course is repeatable to improve competencies. Advanced students concentrate on personal creative directions and content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 240Concepts of Graphic Communication3

Intended as a foundational graphic design course. Students will study design principles and current industry methods and tools. In addition, design principles are discussed not only as they relate specifically to graphic communication, but also as they apply to other forms of communication. The course is project-based with assignments designed to reinforce design principles and develop skill using software and methods common to the graphic design profession.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 241Typography Survey3

Intended as an introduction to typography, this course studies the fundamentals and development of typographic forms and principles of practical type selection and control. The course touches on history of type as well as current technology as it relates to type. Type design, classification, selection, and control techniques are studied in a hands-on environment that puts considerable emphasis on aesthetic considerations. It is recommended, but not required, that student take ART 240 prior to this course.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 242Digital Art3

This course addresses creating art in a digital environment by using the industry-leading raster image editing software, Adobe Photoshop. The course not only covers how to use the software in-depth, but it covers methods and strategies for developing artistic concepts.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 2452D Animation3

Intended as an introduction to 2D animation, this course covers three main aspects of animation: character development, motion theory, and animation. These concepts will be learned through successful completion of skill-building exercises and projects. The objective is to learn effective and believable computer animation.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 260Sophomore Review0

A formal faculty review of student progress.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 270Art Education/Elementary3

A course for students interested in learning to stimulate childrens creative visual expression. It is organized to develop insight into childrens expression as well as understanding and discovering their environment. Basic art concepts, motivations, developmental characteristics, and curriculum are also presented.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 286Topics in Art3-6

To provide instruction in topics of special interest that will not be covered thoroughly in other art courses.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
6
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 292Honors Credit in Art1-2

An independent study course designed primarily for Honors Program students. This course allows more in-depth or comprehensive study or research by certain students concurrently enrolled in at least one other Art course.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 320Drawing4

An introduction to a wide range of basic drawing approaches and materials. This course is designed to develop the quality of students drawings. Students will explore how formal elements, techniques, and materials combine with cognitive meaning. Advanced students will focus on self-directed projects and the development of significant content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 321Painting4

An introduction to basic painting techniques and materials, focused on developing students painting skills. Students will explore how formal elements, techniques, and materials combine with cognitive meaning. Advanced students will focus on self-directed projects and the development of significant content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 322Printmaking4

To develop an understanding of traditional and contemporary hand printing processes through the editioning process, and to explore the two-dimensional image and its relationship to these processes. Emphasis is on experimentation and individual creative expression.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 326Figure Drawing4

This course introduces the human form as subject matter. Emphasis will be on structure of the human form, as well as artistic anatomy and drawing from observation in the students initial enrollment. Subsequent enrollment builds on this foundation and emphasizes individual expression of artistic form and use of the figure in content exploration. Note: Life study drawing includes use of nude models.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 330Sculpture4

To further students understanding of the three-dimensional form in space, and their ability to create and present it through creating methods, materials, tools, and techniques. Processes covered include: additive, subtractive, assemblage, fabrication, molds, and metal casting. The course is repeatable to improve competencies. Advanced students concentrate on personal creative directions and content.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 331Ceramics4

A course structured to meet the needs of both beginning and advanced students. All ceramic processes are available for exploration. Individual creative exploration and production is encouraged. Basic processes are learned in functional pottery, hand-built constructions, glazes, and firing methods.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 343Digital Photography4

The emphasis of this course will be on the use of a digital camera as a tool for artistic expression. Students will study basic photo aesthetics, composition through the lens, color manipulation through external factors, selective focus, motion capture and media distinctive of electronic cameras. Image manipulation will not be emphasized in this course, rather the class will dwell on the unique qualities of photography as a tool for looking at the world and as a means of individual and artistic expression.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 344Illustration3-6

A technical course intended to cover a variety of styles, techniques, and issues related to graphics manipulated for commercial purposes. This class is not intended to teach drawing but instead builds upon previous drawing experience. May include airbrush, computer art, and/or traditional materials and themes. Students are encouraged to develop a personal illustrative style or a unique use of a technique.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
6
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 348Graphic Design Studio4

This repeatable course focuses on creating and presenting quality work suitable for portfolio inclusion. Students will learn principles of visual communication through several individual and team projects covering identity, advertising, promotional, package, exhibit, environmental, information, wayfinding, and instructional design. Regular participation in critiques and discussion are required. Advanced students will initiate self-directed projects that reflect fast-paced work habits and professional practice.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 350Contemporary Art History3

A study of the major movements, key artists and the theories appearing in the visual arts from the 1940s to the present. An examination of key works of art from these movements informed by formal, cultural and historical analysis of them. Topics include the cultural, historic, political context surrounding artworks made in every region of the world in the contemporary time period.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 351History of Graphic Design3

A survey of the history of graphic design from its roots in pre-alphabetic visual communication through to modern trends and new medias for the twenty-first century. The course examines major design movements as they relate and diverge from periods in fine arts and the development of print technologies. Special attention will be given to developments of the Arts & Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, Pictorial Modernism, the Bauhaus, Swiss/International typographic style, The New York School, Post Modern Design and current trends.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 352Women in Art3

Students will gain an understanding of the social and historical environment, aesthetics, and legacy of women as artist and subject through an examination of selected examples found in the visual arts from the Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance and Modern eras.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 355American Art History3

Survey of the arts of North America, including indigenous, colonial European influence, folk traditions, African American and womens art in a variety of media such as painting, sculpture, decorative arts, and architecture. The goal of the course is to make the students aware of the arts of different historical periods and how the changing culture of North America is reflected in them. This course will cover pre-1940 in most media.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 360Junior Review1

A formal faculty review of student progress. Student artistic development is evaluated by the whole art faculty. Student is given the opportunity to discuss their personal stylistic development.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
1
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 370Art Education/Secondary3

Designed to provide the art education major with the applied psychological, philosophical, and educational information to effectively teach art in the secondary school.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 386Topics in Art2-8

To provide instruction in topics of special interest that will not be covered thoroughly in other art courses.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
8
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 394Directed Studies1-8

Course of study developed with supervising instructor.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
1
Credits (max)
8
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 443Advanced Digital Photography4

The emphasis of this course will be digital photographic content development. Students will propose the content they wish to explore under the professors direction. Students will receive direction based on their individual proposal and needs.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 460Graduation Exhibition: Senior Review0

Final performance and capstone course for Art: studio emphasis majors.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 461Graphic Design Graduation Project: Senior Review0

Final performance and capstone course for Graphic Design Emphasis majors.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
0
Credits (max)
0
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 499Graphic Design Internship2

Individually arranged internships within the broad area of design. Must be proposed and approved by instructor prior to enrollment.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
2
Credits (max)
2
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 521Advanced Problems in Painting4

This low residency graduate studio class is a hybrid experience of online and on campus study. This course is designed to give students a focused experience working within a topic while allowing them to develop a body of work that reflects research, an advanced skill level and personal content. This class is a hybrid combining online and on campus segments to allow students to develop a body of work related to a topic/process over the summer session. The class is structured in three parts. Prerequisite: 300 level studio classes or permission of instructor.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 543Advanced Photography4

This low residency graduate studio class is a hybrid experience of online and on campus study. This course is designed to give students a focused experience working within a topic while allowing them to develop a body of work that reflects research, an advanced skill level and personal content. Prerequisite: An advanced digital art photography course or its equivalent, or permission of instructor.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
4
Credits (max)
4
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu
ART 551Research Methods in Art History3

This is an advanced art history class focusing on research methods while furthering knowledge in special topics in art history. Prerequisite: ENG 151 or an academic writing course, or permission of the instructor.

Subject
ART
Credits (min)
3
Credits (max)
3
Credit unit
Credits
Type
course
Edition
2026
Source
catalog.smsu.edu

Source: Southwest Minnesota State University's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 61