sculpture studio space
theater performance
perforated wooded plate
painting
student at piano
metals studio classroom
ceramic studio space

Academics Overview

The College of Visual and Performing Arts (CVPA) is a fully accredited, comprehensive arts college with Bachelor's and Master's programs preparing students for careers in the arts. Unlike most professional art schools, which are independent, CVPA is an active component of a comprehensive university with all the educational resources that implies.

CVPA offers a breadth of high-level programs. You can study Art Education, Art History, Ceramics, Digital Media, Graphic Design/Letterform, Illustration, Jewelry/Metals, Photography, Textile Design/Fiber Arts, Painting/2D studies, Sculpture/3D studies, and Music which includes Performance, World Music, Technology, Jazz/African-American, Music Education, and Composition. Our visual arts Foundation Program introduces students to visual concepts and practices and is required of all first-year studio majors.

CVPA offers both Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Graduate students may pursue MFAs in Visual Design, Artisanry, and Fine Arts, or an MAE in Art Education. Fine Arts and Artisanry also offer post-graduate Certificate Programs.

Requirements for Admission

Requirements for admission into the College of Visual and Performing Arts at UMass Dartmouth vary. Refer to the University Catalogues--undergraduate and graduate--for details pertaining to a specific discipline. University Catalogue

Performing Arts Audition Requirements

All applicants to the Music Department are required to audition and take an advisory examination to assess their background and determine potential. Prospective students may set up auditions by contacting the Music Department directly at 508.999.8568.

Visual Arts Portfolio Requirements

An art portfolio is required for admission to any undergraduate visual studio arts program. It should consist of fifteen 35mm slides presented in an 8 1/2'' x 11'' plastic file sheet. We are especially interested in seeing drawings from direct observation. Slides should be labeled with your name, the size, medium, and date of completion of the work, a dot in the lower left-hand corner, and a number. Each number should correspond to a numbered list which includes information pertaining to each slide. For example, include descriptions of the assignments, concepts, or processes. A self-addressed, stamped envelope is required for return of portfolios.

CVPA strongly recommends that applicants submit their application together with their portfolio before February 1st. Applicants wishing Early Decision should indicate this on the application and submit complete application material and portfolio by November 15th. You will be notified of our decision by December 15th.

Facilities and Equipment

Facilities for each major in the College include some of the finest in New England. Studios on the main campus and at the Star Store offer ample work and presentation space. The technology and equipment necessary for professional training in the arts is excellent and well-maintained.