Applying to the Department of Art and Design
The Department of Art and Design within the School of the Arts at ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ« offers high caliber programs designed to expand students’ potential in the arts and beyond.
Because the School of the Arts is part of the Harpur College of Arts and Sciences, which provides a great degree of flexibility in your fields of study, prospective students begin by applying to ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ« through Harpur College.
After you apply to ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ«, your next steps depend on the arts degree you want to pursue - BA or BFA. BA programs in the arts do not require a portfolio as part of the university application. BFA applicants must submit portfolio materials.
For more information, visit the School of the Arts Application Page
Deadlines
| BA (Early Action) | BA (Regular admissions) |
|
Nov. 1, 2026 |
Jan. 15, 2027 |
|
Art & Design BFA – |
Art & Design BFA – |
|
University application: Dec. 1, 2026 |
University application: Jan. 15, 2027 |
Choosing between a BA and BFA
Both degree paths allow you to study the arts as well as your other fields or interests. A BA offers greater flexibility to pursue a second major, add a minor, or connect your arts education with other academic interests. A BFA provides a more intensive, pre-professional experience, with a larger concentration of studio and specialized coursework, including a capstone exhibition and portfolio.
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
No portfolio or audition is required as part of your application to ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ« for a School of the Arts Bachelor of Arts program. Once you are enrolled in Harpur College, you can declare your BA major in Art and Design.
BA Programs
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- Graphic Design
- Studio Art
A BA offers a balance of creative and academic coursework and provides flexibility for students who want to double major or pursue additional areas of study.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
The BFA is a pre-professional degree with more intensive studio and specialized coursework. This program requires additional portfolio materials as part of the application process.
BFA Programs
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- Drawing
- Graphic Design
- Intermedia
- Painting
- Photography
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
BFA Portfolio Requirements
A complete portfolio includes:
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- 10-15 examples demonstrating the depth and diversity of your creative practice.
- Documentation of your creative work uploaded as a single PDF, with web links to time-based media when applicable.
- Statement of interest (optional)
- Résumé (optional)
- Letter of reference from a teacher who knows your artistic abilities well (optional). Letters must be emailed directly from the recommender to portfolio@binghamton.edu.
Portfolios are reviewed by a faculty committee that evaluates the artistic proficiency and creative promise demonstrated by the work.
For questions about applying to ÑÇÖÞÇéÉ«,
Contact Undergraduate Admissions: admit@binghamton.edu.
For questions about Art & Design or portfolio requirements,
Contact Department Chair Hans Gindlesberger: hgindles@binghamton.edu.