Art Program Highlights
At Mount Vernon Nazarene University, your art education is hands-on from the start. You’ll explore diverse mediums and art history early on, building a strong foundation for an art degree in Ohio at a Christian college. As a senior, you’ll have your own studio space, receive one-on-one mentorship, and showcase your work in the Schnormeier Gallery.
At MVNU, faith isn’t just part of the experience — it’s the foundation. From prayer in the classroom to engaging Scripture and exploring real-world ethical questions, every moment is designed to help you grow. Here, your education goes beyond knowledge — it shapes who you are becoming.
Our travel and study-afar programs let you grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Through serving in communities across the U.S. or abroad, you’ll deepen your compassion, explore your callings, and gain meaningful experience for your résumé. You can also study abroad in Italy during spring break, earning course credit while exploring its rich history, art, and Christian heritage.
Why Choose MVNU
As an MVNU Art major, you’ll develop your creative skills and professional direction over four years, preparing for a wide range of artistic careers or graduate study. Your first two years focus on building a strong foundation through diverse mediums and art history, while your final years center on creating a cohesive body of work shaped by contemporary ideas. Many students also choose to double major in areas like Graphic Design, Psychology, or Communication & Media to expand their skills and career opportunities.
As a senior, you’ll have your own studio space and receive individualized mentorship from faculty. The program culminates in a professional exhibition in the Schnormeier Gallery, where you’ll present your work in a space that has featured nationally recognized artists.
Course Descriptions
Browse the course descriptions to explore your program’s classes.
Financial Aid & Costs
Discover the financial aid opportunities available to help make an MVNU education affordable.
Student Support
The Center for Student Success helps you build skills and succeed academically.
Study Abroad in Italy
Earn Course Credit While Exploring History and Faith
During spring break, experience the culture of Italy through its art, architecture, food, fashion, and Christian influence. Explore historical sites such as the Colosseum and other ancient ruins while in Rome. See the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican. While in Venice float through the canals on a gondola. Journey to the Amalfi coast and its glorious cliffside vista. Experience the history of Pompeii once covered by the ashes of Vesuvius. Visit cathedrals that attest to our Christian heritage through their artistic masterpieces. Learn more today!
Meet Our Art Faculty
Our experienced art faculty at Mount Vernon Nazarene University guide students in studio art and design, providing hands-on experience, mentorship, and preparation for creative careers in art within a Christian college art program in Ohio.
What Can You Do With An Art Degree?
Graduates pursue a variety of jobs with an art degree or professional roles across creative, educational, and design industries. Here are common art degree careers MVNU alumni pursue:
- Studio artist (painter, sculptor, ceramic artist)
- Graphic designer or web designer
- Art teacher or private instructor
- Photographer or videographer
- Marketing or advertising professional
- Creative director or brand strategist
More than 90% of graduates from Mount Vernon Nazarene University who apply to MFA programs are accepted, including top programs like the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Did you know MVNU offers online degree programs? After graduating with your undergraduate degree, you can continue your education with a 100% online master’s program.
Explore Campus Virtually
Take a closer look at MVNU without leaving home. Our virtual tour lets you explore campus — including the Buchwald Center, MVNU’s 32,000-square-foot art and design facility located in friendly downtown Mount Vernon. Start exploring today!
Check these majors out, too
Visual Arts Education
Teach future generations to create and appreciate art with this education degree that’s perfect for creatives.
Graphic Design
Enrich the lives of consumers with effective designs, influencing culture and society in constructive ways.
Still exploring your options? Discover all the undergraduate majors available at MVNU and find the program that fits your passions and goals.