Department of Art + Design, Art History, Art Education

All of the department’s programs — undergraduate, graduate and certificate — provide a broad understanding of the arts across disciplines, cultures, styles and media. Courses encourage students to embrace new technologies and materials, develop creativity and critical thinking, and seek global perspectives. You can participate in study abroad programs, internships, exhibitions and a monthly lecture series. Art + design undergraduate majors can tailor their course of study by selecting from one of nine different concentrations.

What we offer

• an enriched learning environment, promoting excellence in the classroom, studio, community and through e-learning
• a professionally oriented arts education program taught by faculty recognized as accomplished teachers, scholars, practicing artists and designers, and leaders in their disciplines
• a forward-thinking art and design curriculum emphasizing innovation, accompanied by an understanding and appreciation of art history, art education, and traditional processes and skills
• a unique metropolitan perspective, taking full advantage of Towson’s location and liberal arts tradition and providing opportunities for collaborative and interdisciplinary learning

Take a tour

Guided tours of the department are available by appointment. 

In conjunction with the Fall 2021 Undergraduate Open Houses, undergraduate tours start at 12:30 pm on these starred dates*:

• Monday, October 11
• Friday, October 22*
• Friday, November 5*
• Saturday, November 13*

To book an undergraduate tour or more information about undergraduate programs and our facilities, contact Academic Program Coordinator, Ginger Ross, gross AT_TOWSON. 

To book a graduate tour or more information about MFA graduate programs and facilities, contact MFA director Tonia Matthews, tmatthews AT_TOWSON.

Exhibits on campus

The Center for the Arts houses three galleries that exhibit international, national and regional works encompassing those by established artists, as well as emerging artists and students. Galleries are open by appointment this summer. This fall, galleries are open August 31 through December 11. Gallery hours are Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. View all exhibitions.

Open life drawing sessions

Open drawing sessions are available to current students during the fall and spring terms. Students are welcome to draw live models from 2 to 4 p.m., Fridays, usually starting the 3rd week of the term in the Center for the Arts, room 4036.