College of Art and Architecture

Contact Information

Shauna Corry, Dean: AA 202 83844-2461; 208-885-5423

Overview

The College of Art and Architecture was re-established in October 2005, by mandate of the State Board of Education, to bring together the accredited programs in art and design, architecture, landscape architecture /environmental design, interior architecture design, and virtual technology and design. Our majors are engaging in professionally accredited, studio-based programs that emphasize inspired teaching and individualized mentorship, and the development of each student’s distinctive strengths and professional potential for success. Students also work directly with communities and other real-world partners to address pressing challenges, discover the rewards of making a difference, and be inspired to thrive in a rapidly changing world by becoming creative, collaborative leaders, within and outside their disciplines.

This combination of strong, accredited programs expands the resources available to students and cultivates a community of scholars united by a commitment to creating sustainable, high-quality built and virtual environment. Additionally, this structure promotes meaningful opportunities for integration, preparing students for the interdisciplinary nature and demands of contemporary practice. The strength and impact of these programs have earned the college an excellent and widely recognized reputation.

Aptitudes

Students who thrive in the design and visual arts are those who demonstrate a strong sense of purpose and a willingness to work diligently. Equally important is the ability to think and visualize in three dimensions. Successful students are creative, inquisitive, and capable of communicating ideas effectively in both visual and verbal forms. Students should also value cultural and social differences and are open to learning in an interdisciplinary and collaborative manner. In addition, some programs require an ability and interest in the natural sciences and math.

Faculty

Faculty are central to the quality of the educational experience offered through college programs. By combining the expertise and energies of distinguished faculty, scholars, and creative practitioners with the innovative talents of experienced architects, artists, interior architecture designers, virtual designers, and landscape architects, the college cultivates the skills of future professionals by maintaining a strong balance between the theoretical foundations and practical applications. Across the design disciplines, we are engaging with contemporary design challenges, promoting environmental responsibility, and understanding the role of history and culture in shaping, addressing, and meeting the challenging needs of a global society.

Facilities

The College of Art and Architecture is housed in several buildings located at the heart of the university campus, within close proximity to university classroom buildings, library, administrative offices, and recreational facilities. The college administers the Ridenbaugh Hall Gallery, Reflections Gallery, Idaho Design Build, Center for Resilient Community (CRC), and Virtual Technology & Design Lab on campus, and the Prichard Gallery in Downtown Moscow, which support disciplines and programs across the college. In addition, the college operates two facilities located in Boise: the Idaho Urban Research and Design Center (IURDC) and the Integrated Design Lab (IDL).

Fees

The State Board of Education has granted approval to charge a professional fee to all College of Art and Architecture students on a semester basis over and above general tuition and fees. This fee directly supports technology and computing resources for students and faculty, supplements operating budgets, funds temporary faculty, maintains the college’s visual and design resource centers, covers professional accreditation expenses, and partially supports student field trips, clubs, and guest lecturers. For more details, see the "Fees and Expenses" section of this catalog.

Preparation and Admission

A statement of undergraduate and graduate admission requirements is included in this catalog. Students planning to enter the College of Art and Architecture with advanced standing from a junior college or other institution should complete as many first- and second-year curriculum requirements listed in the curricula as possible. Some courses are prerequisites for many advanced courses, and failure to complete them may delay graduation. Additionally, specific grade-point averages and other criteria are required for admission to particular programs within the college. Please refer to the preface to each curriculum for more detailed information.

Scholarships and Awards

Scholarships and awards are available to both current students and prospective students. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid Services.

Additional details may be found on the College of Art and Architecture website or by contacting the administrators of specific programs.