Art and Design

The Department of Art and Design is where artistic potential is nurtured, creativity thrives, and future artists and designers are shaped.

Art and Design Department

The Department of Art and Design at NCCU offers students a strong basis from which they can construct a prosperous and satisfying path forward.

Formerly known as the Department of Art, we proudly adopted our new name in 2020 to better represent the vibrant mix of creative disciplines we offer. Our department is dedicated to nurturing artistic talent and fostering excellence across a diverse range of artistic concentrations.
 

6

Major Concentrations

6

Minor Programs

Major Concentrations

Stock Image of students using PCs in a lab

Master the art of animation and interactive media, with a focus on creating immersive experiences. This major concentration combines advanced techniques in 2D and 3D animation, game design, and interactive storytelling to prepare you for a dynamic career in digital media.

Students looking at a notebook together

Engage in comprehensive architectural design, focusing on creative ideation, sustainable practices, and technical skills. This major concentration prepares you to shape environments and influence communities through innovative and functional structural solutions.

An art student focused on creating a Croc sculpture using clay

Immerse yourself in the study of art history, theory, and art skills development. The Art Studies concentration offers a thorough understanding of various art forms and movements, fostering a deep appreciation across cultures, time periods and artistic practice.

A graphic design classroom displaying different text options on screens

Dive into the world of graphic design with a focus on innovation. This major concentration emphasizes creative problem-solving, advanced design techniques, and digital media to prepare you to create compelling visual solutions that stand out in a dynamic industry.

Students taking a studio art class looking at their easels

Delve deeply into the world of studio art through comprehensive studio practice. This major concentration emphasizes hands-on experience in painting, sculpture, and other media, nurturing both technical proficiency and creative development.

A student working on a dress design

Dive into the world of fashion with a focus on apparel design and textile innovation. This major concentration equips you with the skills to create cutting-edge designs, from concept to production, while understanding industry trends and sustainability.

Minor Programs

Student working on a laptop

Enhance your major with a minor in Game Design. Gain essential skills in game design, animation, and interactive media to broaden your creative capabilities and open new career opportunities in the digital arts.

architecture miniature building models on a table

Complement your major with a minor in Architecture. Gain foundational knowledge in design principles, sustainability, and spatial planning to enhance your understanding of how built environments impact communities and shape experiences.

NCCU students drawing outside

Complement your major with a minor in Art History. Delve into art history, theory, and criticism to deepen your understanding of artistic practices and broaden your perspective on the cultural and historical influences in art.

girl working on laptop, smiling at the camera

Add a creative dimension to your major with a minor in Graphic Design. Develop essential skills in design principles, digital media, and visual communication to complement your primary studies and expand your career opportunities.

NCCU student looking off to the side, with art pieces in the background

Augment your major with a minor in Studio Art. Gain practical experience in various artistic techniques and mediums, allowing you to develop your creative abilities and explore artistic expression alongside your primary field of study.

Student working on apparel design

Add a creative edge to your studies with a minor in Fashion, Apparel, and Textile Design. Gain foundational skills in design, garment construction, and textile technology to complement your major and prepare for a dynamic career in fashion.

Undergraduate Programs

In 2022, the Department of Art and Design at North Carolina Central University revamped its concentrations to enhance students’ learning experiences. We are excited to present the updated focuses in Art Studies, Studio Art, and Graphic Design and Innovation (previously referred to as Visual Communication).

Message from the Chair

We are dedicated to nurturing your creative passion and supporting your journey. To learn more about what we offer, please read the full welcome message from our department chair, Dr. Brenda S. Faison.

Our Facilities

In NCCU’s Department of Art and Design, we provide students with access to exceptional facilities that support a wide range of artistic disciplines that foster creativity, innovation, and artistic growth. The department is housed in the Fine Arts Building, conveniently located on the left when facing the front entrance of the Shepard Administration Building in the Brant Street, Administration Circle. With a total area of 23,000+ square feet, spread across a three-story, Georgian styled structure, the Fine Arts Building offers ample space for a diverse range of unique art and design activities.

Engaging Opportunities

At North Carolina Central University’s Department of Art and Design, we believe in providing our students with immersive experiences and opportunities to grow as artists and designers. As an Art and Design major, students have access to a range of exciting activities and initiatives that enhance their education and broaden their horizons.

NCCU Art Museum

The NCCU Art Museum is a vital teaching resource and cultural institution on the campus of North Carolina Central University. It houses one of North Carolina’s leading collections of works by African-American artists and by others dealing with the black experience.

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