Undergraduate Admissions
The School of Art seeks motivated, enthusiastic students regardless of previous background in the visual arts; however, admission into the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art program is a selective two-part process.
Foundation Year
The first part of the admission process occurs when a student who is accepted by LSU applies to the School of Art to enter the Studio Art Foundation program. The primary tool for identifying candidates is a review of the high school academic gpa and ACT or SAT scores. However, students who feel they would be better represented by a personal interview to show an existing portfolio should contact the School of Art office to schedule an on-campus meeting. Students who have been accepted for admission into the Foundations Program will be notified in writing. Students who are not approved will also be notified in writing and may choose to pursue the Minor in Fine Art.
Three Year Concentration
The second phase of the admission process for the BFA in Studio Art takes place upon completion of the freshman year. Students will submit a portfolio of work created in their first-year foundation courses. Students who successfully pass this review may pursue the three-year concentration in Graphic Design and any studio art minor concentration listed in the LSU General Catalog.
Transfer students
Transfer students from other LSU programs and from other universities will be considered according to the same standards. Individuals not admitted to the professional program will not have access to graphic design courses other than those listed in the first two semesters of the BFA curriculum. Transfer credit is accepted for degree credit if the completed courses are equivalent of degree work at the LSU School of Art, as determined by portfolio evaluation and the school director.
Personal Computer Requirement
Students accepted into the Graphic Design curriculum and the Visual Communications Minor are required to have their own wireless internet access laptop computer prior to entering the second year of study. Information regarding the type, specifications, and software is available here.
Graduate Admissions
Graduate students apply to both the LSU Graduate School and to the School of Art.
To apply to LSU, visit the LSU Graduate School for a checklist of required materials and admission standards. There you will find an online application form, along with instructions for paying your application fee and submitting transcripts and test scores.
To apply to the School of Art graduate program, you need to complete the School’s application form and submit it along with your transcripts, your portfolio, a self-addressed stamped envelope, a personal letter of background and intent, and three letters of recommendation. Detailed instructions for submission can be found on the MA/MFA application form.
Admissions are selective and your application is evaluated on the basis of grade point average, letters of recommendation and your portfolio. You must have a BA or BS degree to be considered for the graduate program.