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Hite Institute of Art + Design

Join us at Kentucky's leading Art + Design program and turn your creative passions into a thriving career. Whether you're exploring art history, studio art or design, your journey starts here.

What is Art + Design?

Art + Design is the convergence of creativity, innovation and practical skill — where visionaries shape the visual world of tomorrow. At the Hite Institute of Art + Design, you'll explore limitless possibilities of artistic expression and design thinking while mastering techniques that matter in today's creative economy. Our program transforms your creative passion into professional power through innovative curriculum, hands-on experiences and deep connections to the $1.1 trillion global creative industry. 

Discover how your artistic vision becomes the foundation for meaningful careers that inspire, innovate and create lasting impact.

Explore Your Future

Art BA
Pursue a BA in Art at UofL's Hite Institute. Choose from Studio Art or Art History to unleash your creativity and understanding.
Fine Art BFA
Dive deep into your passion with a BFA from UofL's Hite Institute. Specialize in Graphic Design, Interior Design or Studio Art for a professional edge. Start crafting your future today!
Art (Creative) and Art History MA
Master the art world with an MA in Art History or Critical and Curatorial Studies. Engage galleries, international experts and museum partnerships. Launch your career as curator, scholar or museum professional.
Studio Art and Design MFA
Create your artistic future! MFA in Studio Art and Design: 60 credits across 9+ media. Generous faculty mentorship, guaranteed funding, real gallery shows, international speakers. A multidisciplinary approach meets global perspective.

Why study Art + Design?

Discover your creative potential, develop critical thinking, and gain skills for a dynamic career in the evolving fields of art and design.
#3

Essential Skill: World Economic Forum projects 73% growth in demand through 2030

$1.1T

contributed in creative power totaling 4.3% of the U.S. GDP with 5.2 million employed

80%

Career Satisfaction in creative professionals, exceeding national averages in job satisfaction

The Art + Design program launched my graphic design career, providing the tools and confidence I needed to succeed in the creative marketing industry.

Lizzy Wolfe Art + Design Alumni
Young woman with blonde hair in a white shirt, smiling and leaning against a window

Career Prospects

Where Your Creative Vision Becomes Your Professional Power

An Art + Design degree unlocks limitless possibilities across every sector of the economy. Your creative training becomes the bridge between imagination and innovation, positioning you to shape the visual world of tomorrow while building a rewarding, sustainable career.

Private Sector Innovation

Salary Range: $61,300-$196,260
Transform how the world experiences technology and brands. Leading companies recognize that exceptional design drives business success, creating high-demand opportunities for creative visionaries.

Career Opportunities:

  • Graphic Designer at marketing firms and tech giants
  • UX/UI Designer enhancing digital experiences
  • Brand Designer shaping corporate identity
  • Creative Director leading strategic campaigns
  • Art Director driving visual storytelling
  • Product Designer innovating user interactions
  • Motion Graphics Designer bringing brands to life

Public Sector Impact

Salary Range: $53,180-$111,040
Shape communities and inspire future generations through meaningful public service. Your creative expertise becomes a tool for social change and cultural enrichment.

Career Opportunities:

  • Art Educator inspiring creativity in schools
  • Public Art Coordinator revitalizing communities
  • Design Consultant supporting urban development
  • Museum Education Specialist engaging audiences
  • Cultural Program Manager building community connections
  • Visual Communication Designer for government agencies
  • Historic Preservation Specialist protecting cultural heritage

Nonprofit and Healthcare Leadership

Salary Range: $48,000-$74,560
Create healing, awareness and positive change through the transformative power of art. Your creativity becomes a catalyst for community well-being and positive impact.

Career Opportunities:

  • Art Therapist promoting mental health and healing
  • Environmental Designer advancing sustainability
  • Museum Curator preserving cultural treasures
  • Community Arts Director building programs
  • Medical Illustrator supporting healthcare innovation
  • Creative Director amplifying causes
  • Exhibition Designer creating immersive experiences

Emerging Creative Frontiers

Salary Range: $80,000-$268,750
Pioneer the future where creativity meets cutting-edge technology. These rapidly growing fields offer exceptional earning potential and the opportunity to define entirely new creative industries.

Career Opportunities:

  • AR/VR Designer creating immersive experiences
  • Game Environment Artist building digital worlds
  • Data Visualization Specialist making information beautiful
  • 3D Animation Artist bringing imagination to life
  • Digital Marketing Creative leveraging social platforms
  • Sustainable Design Consultant solving environmental challenges
  • Creative Technologist bridging art and innovation

Your Creative Journey Awaits

Every path in Art + Design connects your artistic passion with the power to create meaningful change. Whether you're drawn to corporate innovation, community impact or technological frontiers, your creative education provides the foundation for a career that's both personally fulfilling and professionally exceptional.

Contact the Department

Phone

Main Office: 502-852-6794 
Art History: 502-852-5914 
Cressman Center: 502-852-0288 

Location

Schneider Hall: Room 104

Hours

Monday - Friday:  9 a.m. - 5 p.m.