KSU to Create School of Art and Design

Kennesaw State University is turning its Department of Visual Arts into the School of Art and Design.

According to a news release, the change from department to school reflects the growth that the art department has seen in recent years. From 2004-2009, the number of art majors increased by 70 percent, well above the university’s average student population increase of 25 percent.

"The size and complexity of the department has increased to a point that they exceed the boundaries of a typical department," said Joe Thomas, who will be the director of the new school. "The School of Art and Design makes up more than half of the student population in the College of the Arts. Our new designation as a school demonstrates the scale and professionalism of our programs."

In addition to allowing room for continued growth, the new name also better describes the school’s purpose.

"The School of Art and Design more clearly encompasses what we do, as design is a major part of the curriculum," Thomas said.

The School of Art and Design offers four degrees: Bachelor of Fine Arts in art, which includes six areas of concentration; Bachelor of Arts in art history; Bachelor of Science in art education and Master of Arts in Teaching Art (MAT). Most of the degrees offered by the School of Art and Design are specialized pre-professional programs typical of those taught in the context of a school of art.

"Our new name makes it clear that we are on par with our peer institutions," Thomas said.

The School of Art and Design’s name change has been several years in the making, and the faculty and staff are excited for the new opportunities that the school will have.

"All of us in the school appreciate the support of College of the Arts Dean Joseph Meeks, Provost Ken Harmon and President Daniel Papp for making this change possible," Thomas said.