The Fine Arts Department seeks to provide students with a broad knowledge of and appreciation for the arts, and to prepare students for careers and further study. The Department is composed of four (4) areas: Visual Art, Dance, Music, and Theatre.The curricula are designed to provide general education courses in support of a strong liberal arts education. The majors in the Department are Studio Art, Art Education, Music Education and General Music. Each of these programs require the passing of PRAXIS I by the end of the sophomore year and PRAXIS II in the senior year. Please reference the Department of Education for additional guidelines of all Teaching Programs. Students may also obtain a minor in these areas by following specified programs of study.

The goals of the Department are to:

1. provide instructional programs that emphasize concepts and practical skills necessary for personal and professional artistic expression;
2. provide opportunities for students to develop an understanding of and appreciation for cultural diversity and heritage as reflected in the fine arts;
3. provide opportunities for students to develop an understanding of and an appreciation for the fine arts, as a tool for social change;
4. stimulate intellectual activity and exploration of humanistic concerns as they are reflected in the art forms of visual art, dance, music, and theatre;
5. develop the capacity for critical analysis of artistic masterpieces and cultivate a spirit of dialogue and inquiry;
6. cultivate an awareness of enduring values and ethical positions as revealed in the artistic works of those who have shaped modern civilization; and
7. provide a background of humanistic study of the fine arts as a basis for forming a philosophical framework for living and relating to society.

Professional Certification

Students who choose the teaching option follow an approved program of study which meets requirements for professional education and/or certification by the State Department of Education (see also section under Teacher Education Program).

Required Internship

Students enrolled in Studio Art, Art Education, Music Education and General Music Programs are required to complete, during the junior or senior year, a period of internship that closely correlates
with their specific major and program of study. Students who choose the teaching option must complete Student Teaching. Students must enroll in the following Internship courses for credit:

Art 440 Internship
Ed 460S Student Teaching

Required Activities

All Visual Art students are required to present a senior exhibit accompanied by a research written document prior to graduation. All music majors are required to present Junior and Senior Recitals prior to graduation. The Senior Recital must be accompanied by a research document prior to graduation.

Source: Benedict College Catalogue 2007-2009.