NMU Campus from the air

Overview of The School

The School of Art & Design at Northern Michigan University offers unique opportunities for creative students.

Graduates of the program are employed throughout the country in careers ranging from animators, art directors, cinematographers, illustrators, product designers, studio photographers, studio artist, video editors, web and app designers, social media design managers, and entrepreneurs of large and small art businesses or design firms.

Faculty reviews of student portfolios at the third year evaluate student progress toward completing studio requirements including resume development and presentation, a process that greatly assists students in future employment interviews.

The Art and Design building has over 110,000 square feet of studios, a lecture hall, critique and screening rooms. Professional facilities include Advanced Computer Labs, Photography Studio, Painting and Drawing Studios, Green Screen Lighting Studio, along with well equipped Ceramics, Woodworking, Industrial Design, Sculpture, and Metalsmithing workshops.

I encourage you to explore our web site for more information, including examples of student work from every media in our school. If you have any further questions please see the contact section on this website.

Jane Milkie
Associate Dean & Director
School of Art & Design

School of Art & Design Mission

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Photographer and subject in an NMU photo studio

The School of Art and Design faculty mentor students in the development of unique visual voices within a larger visual culture. Students are engaged in creative problem solving and independent production of art and design toward a path of becoming engaged professionals in their respective fields. The School offers a foundation program that teaches students to communicate effectively by gaining a theoretical understanding of visual culture across diverse communities and developing an awareness of the evolving nature of Art & Design. Students acquire hands-on material techniques and technological skills while exploring diverse modes of thinking during the production of art & design work, fostering a sustainable creative practice. The DeVos Art Museum and Visiting Artist Program support the mission of the school by providing global, national, and regional exhibitions, educational and research opportunities, and providing students with direct interactions with recognized professional artists.

Location of School

Northern Michigan University and the city of Marquette are located on the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The northern climate and landscape are distinct and provide numerous outdoor activities. Marquette is approximately 350 miles north of Chicago with a population of approximately 25,000. Marquette has a vibrant downtown, a strong local arts community and to most students provides the atmosphere of a small town.

About NMU

Admissions Information

At NMU there is an adventure in every season. May it be at the beach or on the mountain, in the world's largest wooden dome or learning hands-on skills in the field, Northern truly delivers an incredible experience that isn't limited to a traditional lecture hall.