Students are encouraged to submit a cohesive body of work in the media of their choosing rather than a selection of unrelated work.  Works created independently of classroom assignments, or works created in a portfolio class reflecting a student’s creative direction are preferable to a selection of assignments.  Students may submit work in more than one medium, though a thematic focus is recommended.  Students are encouraged to work with any trusted art teacher or mentor who is available to provide feedback on work selection, though we understand that not every applicant will have access to this assistance.

All students interested in expressing their ideas through visual and time-based art are invited to apply.  Students dedicated to a personal artistic practice without access to high school level arts coursework are also encouraged to apply. (Yes, this includes students doodling incessantly, TikTok video-makers, DIY inventors, etc.) AP portfolio is not a requirement for admission, and faculty are mindful that access to arts coursework varies greatly, especially in public schools.

The Artist Statement is an opportunity for applicants to discuss their artistic influences, cultural background and inspiration.  The Department of Art seeks to recruit a diverse cohort of applicants in the spirit of UCI’s culture of inclusive excellence.  

While our Art Department offers many courses in analog media – painting, drawing, analog photography, and sculpture – faculty are aware that students may enter having worked primarily with digital drawing and painting. This is not a disqualifier for admission, though applicants should understand that coursework in painting and drawing is taught with analog media, ie paint on canvas and drawing on paper, with digital technology being employed as a supplemental tool rather than a primary medium.

Our portfolio review criteria is not identical to the AP Portfolio review, though students may choose to submit work developed in an AP Portfolio course.  AP Portfolio is not a requirement for admission into the major.

If  you are passionate about making art and expressing your ideas through artistic media, then yes!  Beyond courses in drawing and painting, our program includes courses in photography, painting, video, performance, sculpture and digital media.  

Students receiving their BA from UCI’s Art Department pursue a number of paths.  Some pursue advanced degrees including MFAs in Fine Art, MFAs in Graphic Design and MAs in Arts Education.  Others go on to work in arts education, arts administration, fine art studios, and a variety of other fields where creative critical thinking is valued.  Arts and culture production currently represent 7% of California’s GDP, and we encourage our students to pursue careers in a broad range of creative fields.