MFA candidate Alana Fitzgerald discusses her painting with fellow MFA student Chloe Cheng.

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

Find your path in art and design. Explore undergraduate degrees, graduate programs and support resources that fuel your creative journey.

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.
~84,900

Annual job openings across arts and design occupations

$111,040

Median annual wage for art directors

7%

Projected employment growth for web and digital designers

Upcoming Events in Art + Design

Mar 28

MISSING: When East Village Artists Came to Main Street

Cressman Center for Visual Art
11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Apr 03

MISSING: When East Village Artists Came to Main Street

Cressman Center for Visual Art
11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Apr 04

MISSING: When East Village Artists Came to Main Street

Cressman Center for Visual Art
11:00 AM - 04:00 PM

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 prepares you for a wide range of creative and professional careers.

Whether you want to work in the private sector, education, museums, or emerging creative technologies, an Art + Design foundation gives you room to explore. Career paths vary by role and experience. The skills you gain help you stay flexible, build confidence and shape a career that grows with you.

Our graduates turn their skills in visual communication, critical thinking and creative problem-solving into real-world impact. We prepare you for roles in industries driven by innovation, storytelling and people-focused design. Explore the paths our students take — and the careers they build.

Explore Career Pathways in Art + Design