Program Overview

If you’re a creative type, chances are you’re motivated by more than just a paycheck. But that doesn’t mean the “starving artist” stereotype is true. The Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts program at College of The Albemarle (COA) is the perfect way to explore your creative passions while preparing to transfer for your Bachelor of Fine Arts and pursue a host of artistic careers. From your sketchbook to the canvas, let’s work to transform your creative passion into purpose.

• Degree: Associate of Fine Arts in Visual Arts
• Program length: four semesters (two years)
• Locations: COA – Elizabeth City and COA – Dare
• Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
• Careers: professional artist, graphic designer, web designer, art teacher, gallery manager and interior designer

Learn by doing through in-studio and outside assignments that let you express your unique view of the world. Visual arts students will explore and refine their skills with two- and three-dimensional design, drawing, painting, sculpture and ceramics. They also have the opportunity to exhibit their work at local arts venues and participate in local charitable events like Food Bank of the Albemarle’s Empty Bowls fundraiser. In addition, you’ll explore art history to see how other artists’ visions created and expressed the world’s many cultures.

Expert Faculty

Our faculty are Fulbright Scholars, working artists and distinguished artists in residence.

Collectively, they have more than 50 years experience teaching, and countless more years creating their own work. They exhibit regionally, nationally and internationally and even run artists’ retreats for fellow visionaries. Together they’ve transformed our Visual Arts program into one of the finest among the state’s community colleges.

Student Success

Our students have transferred on to study art at Virginia Commonwealth University and University of North Carolina (UNC) Asheville, to name a few. And, our Uniform Articulation Agreement with the UNC System allows our graduates to seamlessly transfer to any one of the UNC Bachelor of Fine Arts/Visual Arts programs.

Job Prospects

Transferring to earn your Bachelor of Fine Arts will open opportunities for you to become a professional artist, graphic designer, web designer, art teacher, gallery manager or interior designer.

Outstanding Value

Complete courses required of first-year and second-year art majors at many four-year institutions, at a fraction of the cost. Receive individual attention in small classes and have more time to refine and expand your artistic skills.

Curriculum Guide

Associate in Fine Arts in Visual Arts Curriculum Guide (PDF)