Visual Art

visual art header image

START ON YOUR PATH TO A BFA WITH NOVA’S VISUAL ART PROGRAM

Create a portfolio that stands out when you apply for competitive bachelor of fine arts (BFA) programs with the NOVA visual art program. Learn more about being a NOVAarts student.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Associate of Fine Arts Degree in Visual Art

Prepare to pursue your Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with NOVA’s Associate of Fine Arts (AFA) in Visual Art degree program. You’ll take courses in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional media and choose from concentrations in painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics and digital art. You’ll be competitive for baccalaureate programs in fine arts, graphic design or photography and receive excellent preparation for careers in graphic design, fashion design, illustration, animation and game design. Other career options include professional artist in photography, sculpture, metal arts, painting, drawing, printmaking and ceramics.

Length
Two Years
Credits
62
Locations
Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Woodbridge
Curriculum Details

WHY STUDY VISUAL ART AT NOVA?

Passionate Visual Art Faculty

You’ll learn from NOVA visual art faculty who hold advanced degrees and are passionate and experienced visual artists. They’re also caring mentors who are dedicated to your success. 

Foundational Visual Art Courses

You’ll take a range of introductory and advanced two- and three-dimensional media courses. In your second year, you’ll choose a concentration in fine arts, graphic design or photography.

Affordable Visual Art Programs

You’ll receive an affordable visual art education. You may even qualify for NOVA scholarships that will help you to offset the cost of your tuition.

Accreditations

Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the Associate of Fine Arts degree in visual art. 

VISUAL ART PROGRAM CAREER OUTCOMES

As a graduate of NOVA’s Associate of Fine Arts in Visual Art degree program, you’ll have many career options to explore, such as graphic design, fashion design, illustration, animation and game design. You could also go on to become a professional photographer, sculptor, metal artist, artist, printmaker or ceramicist.

Credits and
Transfer Info

Credit for Prior Learning

Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.

Transferring

Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.

Your Next Steps to NOVA