The Painting program at St. Ambrose is a concentration within our BA in Art and Design degree. With a Painting degree from St. Ambrose University, students explore the foundations of painting, design, visual narratives, and art history. In Painting courses, students receive one-on-one instruction, develop artistic expertise, and investigate a range of creative careers.
Painting students at St. Ambrose students have access to excellent student art facilities and one-on-one interaction with practicing artists. Our program emphasizes career development ensuring students graduate with the skills and portfolio they need to succeed in their field.
Benefit from one-on-one instruction in a 1,600 square-feet, beautifully-lit studio space.
Each student receives a free membership to the Figge Art Museum, which provides access to world-class exhibitions, events and lectures.
Our capstone preps you for interviewing, resume and portfolio building, and assistance with graduate school applications.
The Galvin Fine Arts Center features two public galleries – the Morrissey and Catich – where students exhibit their work.
SAU’s Art Department partners with local museums and galleries to give students a head start in their field.
Students graduate with a full portfolio tailored for use in graduate school applications.
Our Painting concentration within our BA in Art and Design degree challenges you to develop and grow your art skills and perspectives. In collaboration with faculty and fellow students, you’ll incorporate your life experience into an exploration of art forms and content.
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| AD 170 | Water Media | 3 credits |
| AD 220 | Printmaking | 3 credits |
| AD 250 | Experimental Drawing | 3 credits |
| AD 300 | Figure Drawing | 3 credits |
| AD 370 | Painting Lab | 9 credits |
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
| Expense | By Semester | By Year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all of SAU’s accreditations
St. Ambrose University’s Painting faculty excel at one-on-one interaction and guidance and apply it to everything from mixing paint to discussing your creative growth and ambition. All of our instructors are practicing artists/designers who are recognized for both their expertise and community contributions.
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Undergraduate Art majors and minors can access up to $3,000 in scholarships each year. Applicants submit a portfolio including 10-12 original works of art or design. Portfolios are reviewed by faculty in the art department. Preference is given to applicants who submit before March 10. Learn more about art scholarships.
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
-Bailey Hird, Fairfield, Iowa
St. Ambrose University’s Art Department and student art facilities are housed in the Galvin Fine Arts Center. Our main drawing and painting studio is 1,600 square-feet of beautifully-lit open space.
Galvin is also home to two galleries. The Catich Gallery hosts contemporary art exhibits featuring the work of regional and national artists as well as faculty and seniors graduating with honors. The Morrissey Gallery offers a unique exhibition opportunity to local and regional artists.
Join SAU’s Art Club to participate in events at local museums where they interact with artists and meet new people through regular events at local museums. During "teaching nights" a member teaches participants an artistic skill so they can build on and expand their talent and abilities.
“My courses provided me with a strong foundation that I could build upon as I continued on in my academic career. The internship opportunities I had at St. Ambrose especially prepared me by giving me real world experience in my field.”
-Allison Boyer ‘22, BA in Art History and Painting
Here are the admissions requirements for our Painting program.
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate of our Painting program could achieve.
Potential job titles
Potential employment settings
Traits of a painter
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
