Emphases
Ceramics
The Ceramics program develops technical skills in construction, forming, mold making, glazing, and firing. Students refine their artistic approach, preparing for careers as studio artists, designers, technicians, or graduate study.
Electronic Art & Animation
The Electronic Art & Animation program teaches concepts and skills in motion design and 3D modeling/sculpting, with a focus on media integration. The program serves primarily as support for other emphases.
Digital Cinema
The Digital Cinema program offers training in filmmaking, covering history, production, and various techniques. Students gain hands-on experience with professional equipment, preparing for careers in film, TV, animation, and digital media.
Drawing & Painting
The Drawing & Painting program focuses on developing skills in various media while exploring color, composition, and conceptual practices. Students refine their style through a portfolio review and capstone courses, culminating in an exhibition at the DeVos Art Museum.
Graphic Design
The Graphic Design program teaches students to translate ideas into visual systems for print and digital media. Students learn design, typography, and layout through hands-on courses, with opportunities in letterpress printing and digital design.
Industrial Design
The Industrial Design concentration teaches students to research, conceptualize, and visualize products and services using design sketching, problem-solving, and digital fabrication. Students develop innovative solutions through both individual and collaborative projects.
Illustration
The Illustration program teaches students to communicate ideas for print and digital media, preparing them for careers in advertising, publishing, and entertainment. Students develop their personal style through life drawing, digital tools, and hands-on projects, building a professional portfolio.
Metalsmithing/Jewelry
The Metalsmithing/Jewelry program exposes students to techniques like casting, welding, and forging, allowing exploration in areas such as jewelry, blacksmithing, and sculpture. Students develop their unique artistic direction through individualized research and hands-on projects.
Photography
The Photography program at NMU blends digital and traditional techniques, offering students hands-on experience in both areas. With access to advanced facilities, including Mac labs and a professional lighting studio, students prepare for success in contemporary image-making.
Woodworking & Furniture
The Woodworking program develops design, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills, guiding students from concept to full-scale pieces while mastering techniques for furniture and product design.
Majors
Social Media Design Management
Students in the Social Media Design Management program learn to combine design, marketing, and communication to build and manage brand identities across digital platforms. The program emphasizes visual storytelling, brand strategy, and audience engagement, preparing graduates for careers in digital media, advertising, and corporate communications.
Art Education
The Art Education program certifies K-12 art teachers while developing their artistic skills. Graduates gain hands-on experience and pursue careers in education, museums, and community arts.
Minors
Art History Minor
The Art History minor at Northern Michigan University invites you to explore the world’s artistic traditions, from Zen gardens of Japan to the stone temples of the Mayan lords, and from Egyptian royal portraits to Rembrandt’s self-portraits. You’ll develop skills in visual analysis and critical thinking that extend beyond the past, helping you understand contemporary art and design as well as literature, music, drama, and folklore.