The School of Design offers a Professional BFA (Bachelors of Fine Arts) in Studio Art with specializations in Art Education, Ceramics, Painting, Printmaking, and Sculpture. Students will also take courses in studio areas outside of their area of specialization to expand understanding of art making. This degree from the South Dakota State University is comprised of in-depth studio experiences, art history lecture courses, and engagement in professional practice. Studio Art majors study a variety of art making methods, techniques, and approaches, as well as art history.

Areas of study include: foundational design concepts, basic to advanced drawing skills, courses in computer graphics and photography, creative thinking, painting with several different media, contemporary and traditional approaches to printmaking and letterpress, 3D design, hand-built and wheel thrown ceramics, various sculptural process, sculptural welding and metal work, professional practice, art history, internships, and travel study.

The program aims to develop the knowledge base and experience for students to pursue careers as professional artists or in various art related fields.