About the Department

The Department of Fine and Performing Arts offers a major in the disciplines of art and music. In addition to its primary role of providing professional and pre-professional training to its majors and minors, the department serves as a major cultural center and resource for the University and offers a wide range of concerts, performances, exhibitions, lectures, and courses which promote the aesthetic development of the community.

Central State University is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

The department offers programs leading to the following degrees: the Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, the Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, the Bachelor of Science in Art Education, the Bachelor of Music in Music Education, the Bachelor of Music in Performance, and the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies. All majors and minors in the department are expected to participate in co-curricular organizations and/or activities of respective programs (e.g., art exhibits, concerts, student organizations, professional organizations, etc.).

All majors in the department must fulfill the General Education Requirements as stated in the degree requirements below (which vary depending upon the degree) and the specific requirements of the college in which the student is enrolled (College of Arts and Sciences or College of Education). Students enrolled in teacher education degree programs begin as majors in the College of Arts and Sciences and then must apply to be admitted to the College of Education. All majors are required to pass the University writing proficiency examination and the department comprehensive examinations in the respective disciplines. Students are responsible for knowing and adhering to published schedules for the administration of the above tests and for applying for graduation.