As an integral part of modern society, the arts play a pivotal role in expressing the culture of the moment and the past. In the College of Creative Arts, we balance tradition, innovation, creativity, authenticity and courage to fill our role of serving the land grant mission of West Virginia University. By working as an engaged community, we create an environment where inclusive historical context informs future artistic endeavors.
Mountaineers go first. At West Virginia University we take risks, question everything and aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo. It’s true for the theatre student using next-generation entertainment technology or the music student learning to play bluegrass in a practice room. It’s true for the sculptor turning fire into art or the dancer turning motion into poetry. And it’s true for a scholar exploring the secrets of Gothic art, Renaissance music or the latest techniques in costume design. We go first by pursuing our passions.
Students like Sydney Scott, who is both a top cross-country athlete and violin performance major, and Angela Collier-Reynolds, a flautist who just won a national scholarship, use their passion to make magic.
Our Schools of Art and Design, Music and Theatre and Dance help transform passion into success. You can even craft your own curriculum in multidisciplinary studies.
A constant slate of recitals, concerts, plays, musicals, exhibitions, lectures and master classes help you explore your world through the visual and performing arts. The Art Museum of WVU is home to a collection of over 3,000 works and is spreading our passion for the arts throughout the WVU community and region.
Our teachers are accredited by premiere arts organizations. Our ceramics program is nationally ranked, while the puppetry and creative dramatics program is one of only three in the country. A student-run record label is part of our music industry major, and students gain real-world experience working in a client-focused design studio. A unique art therapy major is being planned.
We also offer you space to create: four theatres and a recital hall, eight visual art studios, ceramic and sculpture shops, computer labs and photography darkrooms. Theatre shops offer space for scenery, costume and craft creation. Exhibition spaces feature work by visiting artists, faculty and senior students.
Our students earn internships with organizations like the Paul Taylor Dance Company and Walt Disney World and travel to China to study abroad in the world’s “Porcelain Capital,” Jingdezhen.
And you won’t need to break the bank to finance your dreams. WVU provides over $394 million in financial aid, including grants, loans, work study and scholarships. The undergraduate scholarship program awards more than $34 million a year.
To learn more about focusing your passion at WVU, contact James Froemel at ccarecruitment@mail.wvu.edu
or 304-293-4339.