| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Watkins College of Art is a prestigious art school that is now part of Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. Originally founded as Watkins College of Art, Design & Film in 1885, it merged with Belmont University in 2020 to offer students expanded resources, modern facilities, and interdisciplinary opportunities. The college provides cutting-edge art and design programs while maintaining its creative and independent spirit.
Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Founded: 1885 (Merged with Belmont University in 2020)
Type: Private, Art & Design College within Belmont University
Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, and Art Education
Facilities: Modern studios, digital media labs, photography darkrooms, and exhibition spaces
Notable For: Strong emphasis on visual storytelling, experiential learning, and creative entrepreneurship
BFA in Fine Arts (Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Mixed Media)
BFA in Graphic Design (Branding, UX/UI, Advertising)
BFA in Illustration (Concept Art, Digital & Traditional Illustration)
BFA in Photography (Commercial & Fine Art Photography)
BFA in Art Education (Teaching Certification in Art)
BA in Art History (Research & Museum Studies)
MFA in Visual Arts – Advanced studio practice & interdisciplinary art.
Top-Ranked Art School in Tennessee – Recognized for creative excellence & career-focused training.
Nashville’s Thriving Art Scene – Opportunities in music, entertainment, and digital media industries.
State-of-the-Art Facilities – Equipped with digital labs, 3D printers, photo studios, and sculpture workshops.
Internships & Industry Connections – Partnerships with galleries, design firms, and creative agencies.
Scholarships & Financial Aid – Merit-based & need-based aid available.
Bachelor’s Degree Admission:
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Portfolio Submission Required (10-15 best artworks).
No SAT/ACT required (optional).
English proficiency (for international students).
Master’s Degree (MFA) Admission:
Bachelor’s degree in Art or related field.
Advanced portfolio review & artist statement.
Resume & letters of recommendation.
Rolling Admissions – Applications accepted year-round.
Creative Studios & Galleries – Students can exhibit their work on campus & in local galleries.
Internships & Career Placement – Opportunities with advertising agencies, gaming companies, museums, and design firms.
International Student Support – Visa assistance, housing guidance, and academic advising.
Library & Digital Media Lab – Resources for research, art history, and creative technology.
Cultural Events & Art Shows – Networking opportunities with local artists & professionals.
BFA in Fine Arts – Specializations in Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Mixed Media.
BFA in Graphic Design – Focuses on branding, UX/UI design, typography, and digital marketing.
BFA in Illustration – Covers digital & traditional illustration, concept art, and storytelling.
BFA in Photography – Emphasizes commercial & fine art photography, lighting, and digital editing.
BFA in Art Education – Leads to teaching certification for art educators.
BA in Art History – Prepares students for careers in museum studies, curation, and art research.
Advanced studio practice, interdisciplinary art, and conceptual development.
Designed for artists aiming for gallery exhibitions, higher education, or creative research careers.
Students can choose minors to complement their degree in:
Art History
Digital Media
Film & Animation
Design Thinking
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
|
BFA in Fine Arts (Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Mixed Media) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
|
BFA in Graphic Design (Branding, UX/UI, Typography, Digital Marketing) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
|
BFA in Illustration (Concept Art, Digital & Traditional Illustration, Storytelling) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
|
BFA in Photography (Commercial & Fine Art Photography, Lighting, Digital Editing) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
|
BFA in Art Education (Leads to Teaching Certification) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
|
BA in Art History (Museum Studies, Curation, Art Research) |
4 years |
$40,000 – $42,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|
|
MFA in Visual Arts (Studio Practice, Interdisciplinary Art, Conceptual Development) |
2 years |
$40,000 – $45,000 |
Top Art & Design School in Tennessee – Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD).
World-Class Art & Design Facilities – Access to digital labs, 3D printing, photography studios, and gallery spaces.
Creative Hub in Nashville – Opportunities in visual arts, entertainment, advertising, and digital media industries.
Internships & Career Support – Partnerships with galleries, museums, advertising agencies, and tech companies.
F-1 Visa Support – Belmont University assists with I-20 processing, SEVIS registration, and visa counseling.
Scholarships Available – Merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students.
BFA in Fine Arts (Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Mixed Media)
BFA in Graphic Design (Branding, UX/UI, Typography, Digital Media)
BFA in Illustration (Concept Art, Storytelling, Digital & Traditional Illustration)
BFA in Photography (Commercial & Fine Art Photography, Digital Editing)
BFA in Art Education (Leads to Teaching Certification in Art)
BA in Art History (Museum Studies, Curation, Research & Criticism)
MFA in Visual Arts (Advanced Studio Practice, Interdisciplinary Art, Conceptual Development)
Completed Application Form – Apply online at Belmont University Admissions Portal.
Educational Transcripts – High school diploma for bachelor’s programs; bachelor’s degree for MFA.
Portfolio Submission (Required for BFA & MFA Applicants) – 10-15 best artworks showcasing artistic ability.
English Proficiency Test:
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110 (Accepted in some cases)
Statement of Purpose (MFA Applicants Only) – Outlining artistic goals and research interests.
Copy of Passport – Must be valid for the duration of the study.
Proof of Financial Support – Bank statement or sponsorship letter proving funds for tuition and living expenses.
No SAT/ACT Required for Bachelor’s Admission
Rolling Admissions – Apply anytime throughout the year.
Watkins College of Art offers the following programs:
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography, Art Education
Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Art History
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) – Visual Arts
Portfolio submission is required for BFA and MFA programs.
Apply Online: Submit an application through the Belmont University Admissions Portal – www.belmont.edu/admissions.
Application Fee: $50 (Non-Refundable).
High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED) – Official transcripts required.
Portfolio Submission (Required for BFA Applicants) – 10-15 best artworks demonstrating artistic skills.
No SAT/ACT Required – Standardized test scores are optional.
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but Recommended) – From an art teacher or mentor.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110
Bachelor’s Degree in Art or Related Field – From an accredited institution.
Portfolio Submission (Required for MFA Applicants) – 15-20 artworks showcasing advanced creative ability.
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Outlining artistic goals and research interests.
Resume (Recommended but not required) – Especially for applicants with work experience.
Letters of Recommendation (2 Required) – From professors or industry professionals.
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 85
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120
Portfolio submissions must be uploaded through the Belmont application portal or via SlideRoom.
Application Review Time: 4-6 weeks after submission.
If accepted, students receive an admission offer letter and scholarship details (if applicable).
Step 1: Receive Form I-20 from Belmont University after admission confirmation.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee ($350) at.
Step 3: Apply for an F-1 Student Visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Step 4: Attend the visa interview and provide necessary documents.
Step 5: If approved, arrange travel and housing before arriving in the U.S.
Belmont’s International Student Office assists with F-1 visa processing and SEVIS registration.
Complete Enrollment & Pay Tuition before the semester begins.
Attend New Student Orientation – Learn about academic policies, career services, and student support.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Semester Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
June 1 (Priority) |
August |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 (Priority) |
January |
Rolling Admissions: Applications are reviewed year-round, but students should apply before priority deadlines for scholarship consideration and visa processing.
International Students: Apply at least 6 months before the semester start date to allow time for visa processing.
Educational Requirement:
High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED) – Official transcripts required.
Portfolio Requirement (For BFA Applicants Only):
10-15 best artworks showcasing artistic ability.
Portfolio should demonstrate drawing, painting, photography, design, or digital media skills.
English Proficiency Requirement (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 80
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 110
Additional Requirements:
No SAT/ACT Required – Standardized test scores are optional.
Letter of Recommendation (Optional but Recommended) – From an art teacher or mentor.
Educational Requirement:
Bachelor’s Degree in Art or Related Field – From an accredited institution.
Portfolio Requirement:
15-20 artworks showcasing advanced artistic and conceptual skills.
English Proficiency Requirement (For International Students):
TOEFL (iBT): Minimum 85
IELTS: Minimum 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120
Additional Requirements:
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Outlining artistic goals and research interests.
Letters of Recommendation (2 Required) – From professors or industry professionals.
Resume (Recommended but not required) – Especially for applicants with work experience.
Portfolio submissions must be uploaded via the Belmont application portal or SlideRoom.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Watkins Art Merit Scholarship |
Strong portfolio and academic performance (BFA/MFA students) |
Up to $10,000 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Belmont Academic Merit Scholarship |
High GPA and strong academic background (BFA/BA students) |
$3,000 – $8,000 per year |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Visual Arts Excellence Award |
Outstanding artistic talent and portfolio review (BFA applicants) |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Requires additional portfolio review |
|
MFA Graduate Scholarship |
Strong portfolio and Statement of Purpose (MFA students) |
Up to $7,000 per year |
Apply through Graduate Admissions Office |
|
International Student Scholarship |
F-1 visa students with strong portfolio and academic record |
Up to $5,000 per year |
Apply through Belmont Financial Aid Office |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Demonstrated financial need (U.S. students only) |
N/A |
Submit FAFSA application |
Campus Name |
Location |
Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Watkins College of Art at Belmont University |
1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, USA |
Art studios, digital media labs, photography darkrooms, sculpture workshops, exhibition spaces, library, career services |
Key Features of the Campus:
Professional Art & Design Studios – Equipped for painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
Gallery & Exhibition Spaces – Opportunities for students to showcase their work.
Cutting-Edge Digital Labs – Includes 3D printing, motion graphics, and UX/UI design software.
Career & Internship Services – Helps students secure internships and job placements.
Residence Hall Name |
Room Type |
Estimated Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tall Hall |
Shared Double Room |
$4,000 – $4,800 |
$8,000 – $9,600 |
|
Hail Hall |
Private Single Room |
$5,000 – $5,500 |
$10,000 – $11,000 |
|
Bruin Hills Apartments |
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
$5,500 – $6,200 |
$11,000 – $12,400 |
|
Belmont Commons |
Private Studio Apartment |
$6,500 – $7,000 |
$13,000 – $14,000 |
Notes:
All on-campus housing includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and access to campus facilities.
Meal plans are separate and cost $3,500 – $5,000 per year, depending on the dining plan.
Limited availability – Students should apply for housing early.
Accommodation Type |
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Estimated Yearly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
$800 – $1,500 |
$9,600 – $18,000 |
|
Private Studio Apartment |
$1,500 – $2,200 |
$18,000 – $26,400 |
|
One-Bedroom Apartment |
$1,800 – $2,500 |
$21,600 – $30,000 |
|
Homestay (Includes Meals) |
$1,200 – $1,800 |
$14,400 – $21,600 |
Off-campus housing near Belmont University is more affordable compared to major cities like New York or Los Angeles.
Watkins College of Art fosters a studio-based learning culture, where students actively engage in hands-on projects, critiques, and interdisciplinary collaborations. Small class sizes ensure personalized mentorship from faculty members, who are practicing artists and industry professionals. Students work on projects in painting, sculpture, photography, graphic design, illustration, and digital media, preparing them for careers in the creative field.
Students have access to cutting-edge facilities, including:
Art studios for painting, drawing, and mixed media.
Graphic design and digital media labs equipped with Adobe Creative Suite, 3D printers, and motion graphics software.
Photography darkrooms and professional-grade photo studios.
Sculpture and ceramics workshops with woodworking, metal, and clay tools.
Exhibition spaces where students showcase their work in on-campus and public galleries.
The school provides individual studio spaces for upper-level students, allowing them to develop their artistic vision in a professional environment.
Watkins College of Art has strong ties with local galleries, creative agencies, museums, and entertainment companies, helping students gain real-world experience through:
Internships at design firms, advertising agencies, and galleries.
Collaborations with Nashville’s thriving music and film industries.
Workshops and guest lectures from established artists and professionals.
Portfolio reviews and career counseling to help students transition into the workforce.
Students have interned and worked with The Frist Art Museum, Hatch Show Print, Country Music Hall of Fame, and creative startups in Nashville’s booming arts sector.
Watkins students have multiple opportunities to display their work and gain exposure in the art world. Throughout the year, the college organizes:
Student Art Shows – On-campus exhibitions showcasing student work.
Senior Capstone Showcases – Final-year students present their portfolios in a professional setting.
Collaborations with Local Galleries – Opportunities to exhibit in Nashville’s renowned galleries and museums.
Annual Watkins Film Festival & Art Market – A celebration of student creativity in film, animation, painting, and design.
These events allow students to network with industry professionals, potential employers, and art collectors.
Beyond the classroom, students can join art-focused student organizations and clubs that enhance their creative and leadership skills. Popular groups include:
Watkins Art Collective – Organizes workshops, artist talks, and student exhibitions.
Illustration & Comics Club – Focuses on character design, storytelling, and graphic novels.
Photography Society – Hosts photo walks, exhibitions, and darkroom experiments.
Graphic Design Club – Collaborates on branding projects, UX/UI design, and digital art competitions.
Film & Animation Club – Brings together students interested in animation, motion graphics, and short filmmaking.
Students are encouraged to build connections, collaborate on projects, and explore different artistic disciplines through these organizations.
As part of Belmont University, Watkins students participate in a variety of campus-wide activities, concerts, and cultural festivals. Nashville, known as the "Music City," provides a rich creative environment where students can explore:
Music & Arts Festivals – Including the Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, Nashville Film Festival, and Artclectic Art Show.
Live Music & Entertainment – Students can enjoy free concerts, open mic nights, and creative networking events.
Public Art & Street Murals – The city’s vibrant mural scene offers inspiration for visual artists and designers.
Theater & Film Screenings – Belmont hosts film nights, play productions, and interactive media showcases.
Nashville’s blend of art, music, and culture makes it an exciting place for young artists to grow and find inspiration.
Students living on-campus at Belmont University have access to modern residence halls, apartment-style housing, and shared artist spaces. The college promotes a safe, inclusive, and engaging living environment, where students can connect with peers across different disciplines. Dining options, fitness centers, and student lounges contribute to a comfortable campus lifestyle.
For those living off-campus, Nashville offers affordable housing options in creative neighborhoods like Germantown, East Nashville, and The Gulch, where many artists and musicians reside.
Watkins College of Art provides various support services to ensure student success, including:
Academic Advising & Mentorship – Guidance on coursework and career pathways.
Mental Health & Counseling Services – Resources to support student well-being.
International Student Office – Assists F-1 visa students with immigration, housing, and cultural adaptation.
Library & Research Facilities – Extensive art collections, digital resources, and quiet study spaces.
Students receive one-on-one attention to help them balance their academic and creative pursuits.
1. Career Services & Job Placement Support
Watkins College of Art offers career-focused resources through Belmont University’s Career & Professional Development Center, including:
Internship & Job Placement Assistance – Connections with galleries, design firms, advertising agencies, and tech companies.
Resume & Portfolio Development – Guidance on creating professional artist portfolios, resumes, and personal branding.
Interview Coaching – Mock interviews and employer networking events.
Freelancing & Entrepreneurship Support – Resources for students interested in starting their own businesses or freelance careers.
Career Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Provides access to industry professionals and hiring managers.
Many students secure jobs or freelance work before graduation through internship programs and networking events.
2. Internship & Work Experience Opportunities
Watkins College of Art strongly encourages students to gain real-world experience through internships in design, photography, animation, and fine arts.
Internships Available in:
Graphic Design & Branding Agencies – Work with companies in advertising, UX/UI design, and branding.
Art Galleries & Museums – Assist in curation, exhibition planning, and art handling.
Photography Studios & Media Companies – Gain experience in commercial photography, editorial shoots, and digital imaging.
Illustration & Publishing – Work on book illustrations, concept art, and editorial projects.
Film & Animation Studios – Opportunities in motion graphics, animation, and visual storytelling.
Top Nashville employers for internships:
The Frist Art Museum (Exhibition & Gallery Internships)
Country Music Hall of Fame & Hatch Show Print (Graphic Design & Marketing Internships)
Nashville Design Studios (Creative Branding & UX/UI Design Roles)
Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) (Arts Administration & Set Design)
3. Job Placement & Average Salaries for Watkins College of Art Graduates
Watkins College of Art graduates pursue careers in diverse creative industries, including fine arts, digital marketing, gaming, publishing, and entertainment.
Estimated Starting Salaries for Watkins College of Art Graduates
Industry |
Average Starting Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Graphic Design & UX/UI Design |
$50,000 – $75,000 |
|
Illustration & Concept Art |
$45,000 – $70,000 |
|
Photography (Commercial & Editorial) |
$40,000 – $65,000 |
|
Fine Arts & Exhibition Design |
$35,000 – $60,000 |
|
Film, Animation & Motion Graphics |
$50,000 – $80,000 |
|
Marketing & Digital Media |
$50,000 – $75,000 |
|
Art Education (Teaching & Academia) |
$40,000 – $65,000 |
Salaries depend on industry, job role, location, and experience level. Freelancers and entrepreneurs have unlimited earning potential.
4. Networking & Employer Connections
Watkins College of Art hosts networking events, guest lectures, and industry panels where students can connect with:
Art Directors & Creative Professionals – From advertising agencies, design firms, and animation studios.
Gallery Owners & Curators – Opportunities for fine art exhibitions and sales.
Entrepreneurs & Business Leaders – Insights into freelancing, brand building, and starting an art business.
Watkins Alumni Network – A strong network of graduates working in top creative companies worldwide.
Many students land full-time jobs through networking and industry referrals.
5. Top Companies Hiring Watkins College of Art Graduates
Graduates from Watkins College of Art work in leading companies, creative agencies, and museums, including:
Design & Branding Agencies: Pentagram, Frog Design, IDEO, Hatch Show Print
Film, Animation & Gaming Studios: DreamWorks Animation, Warner Bros. Games, Disney Interactive
Photography & Media Companies: National Geographic, The New York Times, Getty Images
Galleries & Museums: Frist Art Museum, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Country Music Hall of Fame
Publishing & Illustration Firms: Penguin Random House, Marvel Comics, Scholastic Books
Many alumni go on to launch their own design studios, photography businesses, or art galleries.
6. Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Work Opportunities for International Students
International students on an F-1 visa can apply for:
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 12 months of work authorization after graduation.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Internships while studying (for eligible programs).
On-Campus Jobs – Work up to 20 hours per week in administrative and support roles.
STEM OPT Extension is NOT available – Watkins College of Art’s programs are not STEM-designated.
7. Final Thoughts on Placements at Watkins College of Art
Strong internship & employer partnerships – Many students secure full-time jobs before graduation.
Career Services & Networking Support – Resume building, portfolio development, and employer connections.
Opportunities in fine arts, graphic design, digital media, UX/UI, and photography.
F-1 Visa Support & OPT Work Authorization for International Students.
While Watkins College of Art does not guarantee job placements, its strong career services and industry connections significantly improve students' chances of securing jobs in creative fields.
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 80-85% (Estimated)
Watkins College of Art at Belmont University has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 80-85%. The college evaluates applicants based on portfolio quality, academic performance, and artistic potential rather than standardized test scores.
Portfolio Submission Required for BFA & MFA Programs – Applicants must submit 10-15 artworks (BFA) or 15-20 artworks (MFA) showcasing their skills.
Bachelor’s Degree Applicants (BFA/BA): Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Master’s Degree Applicants (MFA): Must have a bachelor’s degree in art or a related field.
No SAT/ACT Required – Standardized test scores are optional.
English Proficiency for International Students – TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores required if English is not the applicant’s first language.
Rolling Admissions – Applications are accepted year-round, but students should apply before priority deadlines.
Watkins College of Art prioritizes talent and creativity over academic test scores, making it an accessible option for aspiring artists and designers.
Main Campus Address:
Watkins College of Art at Belmont University
1900 Belmont Blvd, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
