The mission is to provide educational opportunities that will enable students to become competent in the theory and practice of visual art. The department emphasizes technical proficiency, conceptual understanding, increased awareness of the student's artistic talents, and the role of the arts in society, including experiential learning and interdisciplinary opportunities.

This innovative degree unites traditional fine arts—such as painting, drawing, and printmaking—with digital graphic design, offering students a rare opportunity to develop a broad, versatile skill set within a single program. By combining these two creative disciplines, the Visual Arts & Design major not only reflects the realities of today’s art and design industries, but also positions students for greater flexibility in their careers. The program streamlines pathways for students interested in both fine art expression and digital communication, making it a more efficient and attractive option for aspiring visual creators.- See more at: https://umo.edu/bs-visual-arts-and-design/