Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Where creativity and technology converge

At Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), the boundary between artist and innovator dissolves. Here, you're not just creating art; you're inventing the future of it. WPI offers a unique environment where your passion for visual arts is amplified by a world-class STEM education, preparing you for a career that is both creative and impactful.

Academics: A fusion of art and innovation
WPI's approach to visual arts is anything but ordinary. The acclaimed Interactive Media & Game Development (IMGD) major, available as a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science, is a prime example of this synergy. This program goes beyond just game design, delving into virtual reality, animation, and interactive experiences. You'll learn not only the artistic principles of 2D and 3D design but also the technical skills to bring your visions to life.

For those with a broader interest in the arts, the Humanities and Arts major with a concentration in Art allows you to explore art history and theory while still benefiting from WPI's hands-on, project-based curriculum. And if you're majoring in a STEM field but want to keep your creative side active, the Media Arts minor is the perfect fit.

A hallmark of the WPI experience is the Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP). This team-based project challenges you to solve real-world problems, and for visual arts students, it's a chance to collaborate with peers from different disciplines and even travel to one of WPI's many global project centers.

Student life: A canvas for your passions
Your artistic journey at WPI extends far beyond the classroom. The vibrant Art and Design Club is a hub for creative students, hosting a variety of events like painting nights and workshops. Here, you can connect with fellow artists, share your work, and get inspired.

Throughout the year, you'll have opportunities to showcase your talent. The annual ART|WPI exhibition in the campus library celebrates the creativity of students, faculty, and staff. There's also a student-run Art Fair, providing a platform to sell your creations. And twice a year, Arts & Sciences Week fills the campus with performances, talks, and showcases, highlighting the incredible intersection of art and technology at WPI.

WPI's state-of-the-art facilities are a dream for any visual arts student. You'll have access to the Higgins Design Studio, the Fuller Art Studio with the latest digital art tools, a Fabrication Lab (FabLab) for bringing your designs into the physical world, and a fully equipped Makerspace. These resources are at your fingertips, empowering you to experiment and push the boundaries of your creativity.

Real-world connections: The Worcester art advantage
WPI's location in Worcester offers an incredible advantage for aspiring artists. The University has a strong partnership with the renowned Worcester Art Museum and the Worcester Center for Crafts. This collaboration provides students with unparalleled opportunities, including free museum admission, discounts on studio art classes in disciplines like glassblowing and ceramics, and the chance to work on projects with these esteemed institutions. Imagine learning from professional artists and having your work informed by a world-class art collection—that's the Worcester art advantage at WPI.