The University of North Dakota’s Department of Art & Design plays a vital role in the cultural climate of its vicinity. We are the largest and most complete art and design department within this upper plains region outside Minneapolis—as well as the only art and design department within the geographical area of North Dakota and South Central Canada offering the terminal degree (M.F.A) in studio art. As such, we have a particularly strong commitment to artistic productivity and all of our art and design program areas encourage students to think creatively as visual artists as they explore and develop images in ethical and diverse ways.

The Department of Art & Design faculty is committed to creative productivity and scholarly research and their presentation through exhibitions and publications. By exhibiting works, presenting papers at professional conferences, and/or publishing research, the faculty aims to set examples as role models who encourage students to engage in similar activities. Additionally, whether we are addressing our students, exhibiting artwork, producing scholarly publications, or functioning as a knowledge base for the general public, we regard art and design as essential components of daily life. Moreover, we view art and design as among the most significant means by which the collective culture is transmitted and how civilizations are historically measured. With these thoughts in mind, our faculty and teaching staff are committed to providing education to those who are interested in participating in this cultural dialogue.