Applied Learning in the College of Fine Arts

At Wichita State University’s College of Fine Arts, applied learning starts in the classroom. Through hands-on instruction, students actively engage in real-world practices as part of their coursework—whether they are creating, performing, producing, or designing. This immersive approach ensures that students develop the technical, creative, and professional skills needed to succeed in the arts.

With faculty who are practicing artists, performers, and industry professionals, every course is an opportunity to gain direct experience in your field. From studio work and live productions to classroom projects that mirror industry demands, students graduate with a portfolio of meaningful, practical experiences that set them apart.

Applied Learning at the Core of Every Course

Unlike traditional lecture-based learning, our courses are designed to be hands-on from day one. Students engage in:

  • Studio-Based Learning – Create, critique, and refine your work with faculty and peer feedback.

  • Live Performance & Production – Gain experience through in-class performances, directing projects, and technical production work.

  • Experiential Learning in the Arts – Learn by doing—whether it’s designing for a live production, composing original music, or curating an exhibition.

  • Industry-Standard Techniques & Tools – Use professional equipment, software, and industry practices as part of your coursework.

Beyond the Classroom: Expanding Applied Learning Opportunities

While most applied learning happens in the classroom, students also have opportunities to apply their skills in professional settings through internships, exhibitions, and community collaborations.

Internships & Professional Experience

Students have access to paid and unpaid internships with local, national, and international organizations, allowing them to gain real-world experience in:

  • Arts administration & management
  • Theater & film production
  • Museum & gallery curation
  • Design, photography, & digital media

Performance & Exhibition Opportunities

Classroom learning extends into public performances and exhibitions, where students showcase their work, refine their craft, and build their portfolios.

Industry Partnerships & Collaborations

The College of Fine Arts has strong relationships with leading arts organizations, providing students with hands-on experiences in real-world settings. Some of our partners and professional collaborators include:

  • Music Theatre Wichita – Work alongside Broadway-caliber professionals in theater productions.
  • Wichita Symphony Orchestra – Perform with and learn from professional musicians.
  • Walker’s Jazz Lounge – Gain firsthand experience in live music performance and venue operations.
  • Ulrich Museum of Art – Contribute to exhibition curation, arts education, and museum programming.
  • Ballet Wichita – Engage in professional ballet productions and creative collaborations.
  • Arts Council – Work on community arts initiatives and advocacy projects.
  • City of Wichita – Arts and Cultural Services Division – Participate in public arts programs and city-wide cultural initiatives.

From Classroom to Career

Through a combination of hands-on coursework, performance, exhibition, and industry partnerships, Wichita State’s College of Fine Arts ensures that students graduate with more than just a degree—they graduate with experience.

Whether you’re in the studio, on stage, or behind the scenes, your education is active, immersive, and career-focused from the start.

Learn. Create. Perform. Excel.