Future Students

The Department of Art & Design at Cleveland State University offers flexible undergraduate pathways for students interested in creative practice, design, visual culture, and interdisciplinary study.

Whether you want to become a practicing artist, graphic designer, art historian, or explore emerging fields that combine design with psychology or technology, our programs provide hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and access to Cleveland’s vibrant arts community.

There is no portfolio requirement for admission, and students of all experience levels are welcome.

Transfer Students

Transferring to Cleveland State? Art & Design welcomes students from community colleges, four-year institutions, and other academic backgrounds. CSU’s Transfer Guides can help you explore course equivalencies and transfer planning resources. For questions about transferring into Art History, Graphic Design, or Studio Art, we encourage you to contact us for program-specific guidance.

Why Study Art & Design at CSU?

At Cleveland State, students develop creative and professional skills while studying in the heart of downtown Cleveland’s arts district.

Our students benefit from:

• dedicated faculty who are practicing artists, designers, and scholars
• access to professional studios, digital labs, and exhibition opportunities
• internships and community-based projects
• proximity to institutions like the Cleveland Museum of Art, SPACES, Playhouse Square, and the region’s creative industries
• affordable tuition at a public research university

Scholarships & Student Support

The Department of Art & Design offers scholarship opportunities for incoming and current students.

The Haddad Merit Scholarship provides significant merit-based support for selected Art & Design students, along with mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Learn about Art & Design scholarships.

Art & Design Programs

Majors

• Art History
  For students interested in the history of art, visual culture, museums, and the critical study of images across cultures and time periods.
• Graphic Design
  For students interested in visual communication, branding, typography, digital media, user experience, and creative problem solving.
• Studio Art
  For students interested in developing a personal creative practice through hands-on work in areas such as drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, and interdisciplinary studio art.

Integrated Degrees

Combine design with complementary disciplines through CSU’s integrated degree programs:

• Design + Psychology
  For students interested in user experience, human-centered design, research, and how people interact with visual communication.
• Computer Science + Design
  For students interested in interactive media, digital product development, coding, and design technology.

Minors

• Art History
• Graphic Design
• Studio Art
• Visual Studies (for non-majors)

Certificates

• Arts Management & Community Development
• Graphic Design
• Pre-Art Therapy

Ready to Learn More?

• Schedule a campus tour
• Connect with an Admissions Counselor
• Explore Art & Design scholarships
• Apply to Cleveland State