Art and Design

Where Ideas Take Form

Art & Design

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Vision

We will be a creative and cultural hub for the greater Joplin metropolitan area as well as the four-states region by providing a relevant educational experience in the visual arts through quality teaching, experiential learning, and mentorship.

The Department of Art and Design integrates a university liberal arts education with professional training in art. We help creative individuals develop into designers, teachers, and studio artists.

Art & Design Degrees

Art & Design

Learning Outcomes

Build a strong foundation in visual art while exploring diverse cultures and artistic traditions.
Learn to develop your ideas, solve creative problems, and think critically in an ever-changing world.
Take part in hands-on projects, exhibitions, travel opportunities, and workshops that go beyond the classroom.
Choose from multiple pathways to earn meaningful credentials that match your passions and career goals.
Get involved in community events, art shows, and organizations to connect and showcase your work.
We’re here to help you stay on track, succeed, and graduate with confidence.
Dive into creative research and professional projects guided by passionate faculty.

			Departmental Strengths
			Globally Experienced Faculty: Our full-time professors bring international teaching, exhibition, and study abroad experience to the classroom.
Senior Exhibitions for All Majors: Every graduate—regardless of major—publicly showcases their final portfolio.
Global Learning: Many students travel abroad to study art and expand their cultural perspective.
Unique African Art Collection: Our extensive African art collection offers hands-on research opportunities in museum studies.

Everyone belongs here

We believe art and design should be for everyone. It’s a powerful way to learn about and respect different cultures and experiences. We welcome people of all backgrounds and identities and stand for equality and social justice.

Honoring Indigenous land

We recognize that our campus sits on the ancestral land of the Osage Nation. We're committed to honoring Indigenous communities and understanding the impact of history and education in that context.