Sculpture

Studying sculpture at the College of Visual & Performing Arts at UMass Dartmouth will expose you to the many possibilities of contemporary sculpture as you explore both theory and practice. You'll learn to think critically as you develop a practical skill set directed by your interests and goals. Sculpture students gain experience in a broad spectrum of 3D art-making approaches and genres through focused, disciplined studio practice.

Individualized instruction at every level will guide you through the almost limitless possibilities with materials, processes, and emerging genres available to three-dimensional artists today. Our goal is to create well-prepared, broadly informed artists who can fluently express their ideas three-dimensionally.

The study of sculpture prepares you for a career as a professional artist with opportunities in areas such as 3D design, fabrication, film and video industries, galleries, museums, theaters, and education, as well as for graduate study.

Students who wish to focus their studies on sculpture may major in studio arts, which offers concentrations in sculpture, drawing, painting, and 3D integrated studio arts.

The BFA program in studio art and the expanded field culminates in each student’s BFA capstone exhibition in a professional gallery or museum setting. A graduating BFA student from our program has the experience and confidence to boldly enter a career in the visual arts and build a creative life amid the limitless possibilities available to the artist today.

For the BFA in art + design: studio arts and the expanded field, you'll complete 78 credits in courses related to your major, and 120 credits overall.

For the sculpture minor, you'll complete 18 credits. With a minor in sculpture & 3D studies, you will increase your technical proficiency and develop a personal voice. Emphasis is placed on the development of concepts and content, as well as personal interpretation.

Student success

Lauren Roche '15

A passion for art & politics

Career placements

Amaral Fabricators
New Bedford Beautiful
Desco Industries Inc.
Entrepreneurship for All
Mid City Studios
National Geographic
The Trustees - Southeast Gardens
University of Connecticut
University of Illinois
Whaling City Iron
WHDH-TV

Graduate schools

Cal Arts
Cranbrook
Maine College of Art
Maryland Institute College of Art
Rhode Island School of Design
University of Georgia
Virginia Commonwealth University

College of Visual & Performing Arts undergraduate median starting salary:
$55,000

NACE Data Collection of Class of 2023 Undergraduate Alumni

UMassD's undergraduate experiences

Honors College

Take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars.

Study Abroad

Earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field.

Bhen with his art students at Talibon Elementary School in Bohol, Philippines.

Undergraduate Research

Faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects.

Student studying at Claire T. Carney Library

University Studies

Gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills.

UMassD advantages

Internships: enhance your studies while gaining first-hand experience
Studio facilities: our studios feature state-of-the-art equipment and ample work areas
Faculty-led visits to regional and metropolitan art venues
Campus Gallery: exhibit your work on campus

Expand your opportunities

Master of Fine Arts: Develop your personal voice and advance your creative skills with a master's degree. You can specialize in drawing, painting, printmaking, or sculpture.

Master of Art Education: With an emphasis on how the arts are integrated into daily life, the MAE program leads to a single-level professional certification in Massachusetts as an art teacher in grades Pre K-8 or 5-12.

Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Fine Arts: Designed for artists who have earned BFA or BA degrees, and would benefit from immersion in an academic/studio environment. Applicants may wish to develop their artwork for application to graduate school, professional residency or to launch a professional career.