Welcome To The Art Program
Just the facts
Entry: Fall or Spring
Length: 4 semesters
Award: Associate of Arts
Admission Requirements
Admission to the college is granted to all individuals who are high school graduates or the equivalent. We encourage you to review our Getting Started Checklist for specific requirements for admission.
"It is difficult to find an effective method in which you can harness creative thought and boldly put that thought to action; the IWCC Art program does this remarkably well." - Scott Sparr, 2007
program Information
The Art program prepares students to transfer to four-year schools and/or art schools to continue their studies. The program produces graduates who:
- are self-directed learners, critical thinkers, problem solvers and effective medium/community communicators
- have demonstrated competence in the process of creating visual art forms
- have demonstrated a practical as well as a conceptual knowledge of the visual arts
- have knowledge of, participated in, and comprehend their responsibility of the art community
- are prepared to pursue advanced degree studies in the visual arts.
Graduates of this program are awarded an Associate of Arts degree. Associate of Arts degree requirements may be found in the IWCC catalog.
"IWCC was a great stepping stone. I didn't know what I wanted to do, but being able to be in college and get the gen eds out of the way as well as exploring other opportunities, I was able to find an area of study that I did want to do. This way it didn't cost a lot while I was still deciding which way to go. It was a good place to be at. It probably would have taken me a lot longer to get where I am today if I didn't go to IWCC." - Jade Lawson, 2003
Course Sequence
For recommended course sequence, please refer to the program guide or the IWCC catalog. Art program course descriptions may also be found in the catalog.
Articulation/Transfer Opportunities
Iowa Western Community College has articulation agreements with various four-year schools, local and state.
The Facility
The Art department is housed in the Arts Center on the campus of Iowa Western. Breathtaking views and a pleasant environment surround this beautiful state-of-the-art facility, which was constructed in 2001.
Classrooms at Iowa Western have the latest technologies for faculty to deliver quality instruction. Iowa Western's spacious classroom and laboratory facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
Our wireless network also allows students to access the internet from virtually anywhere on campus.
Scholarships
Art scholarships are available as indicated below. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or better and make an appointment for an art portfolio review with the Art program Chair. Applicants may apply using the standard IWCC scholarship application.
- Gallery Assistant Scholarship - $1,000
- This scholarship was established by IWCC in 2000 for incoming Art majors. The recipient of this scholarship will have the opportunity to work cooperatively with members of the IWCC art department in the operation of the Art Center gallery.
- Digital Photography Assistant Scholarship - $1,000
This scholarship was established by IWCC in 2000 for incoming Art majors who play to continue a career in digital/graphic areas. The recipient will work closely with IWCC faculty in shooting and printing digital imagery.
Iowa Western Community College has many other scholarship opportunities available for new and continuing students. We encourage you to take a moment to explore these options by visiting our Scholarship Page - the few minutes it takes to fill out the application may literally pay off.
Art Competitions
The Art department sponsors an annual Art Portfolio and Juried Art Workshops and Competition for high school students.
Art Portfolio Workshop - At this workshop, 9th, 10th 11th and 12th grade students will learn what colleges and art schools expect to see in portfolios for entrance to programs as well as for scholarships. Each student will submit at least three works of art that will be evaluated on technique, completeness, theme, and intention. A discussion between the artist and the judges will also take place.
Juried Art Workshops and Competition - 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade students in Iowa and Nebraska are eligible to participate. As part of this day, students will not only attend workshops but will also experience college-level art courses, led by Iowa Western Art Instructors. In additional, students will submit works of art to be critiqued and judged. There will be an awards ceremony and presentation after the workshops. Cash and gift certificates are awarded.
If you would like additional information, please contact the Competition Coordinator.
Come See The Art Program for Yourself!
It is important to research the program you would like to study and school you would like to attend, but it is equally important that you experience both before making your selection. We encourage you to come experience Iowa Western for yourself by scheduling a visit or attending a program day.