Portfolio & Program Requirements
Steps to Become an Art Major
Follow these steps to apply, submit your portfolio, and prepare for success in the Department of Art at SHSU.
Start your journey by applying to Sam Houston State University through Undergraduate Admissions. You must first be accepted to SHSU before moving forward with admission to the Department of Art.
To join any Art program, you'll need to complete a portfolio review. This is your opportunity to share your creative work and demonstrate your potential. Admission to both SHSU and the Department of Art is required before you can declare an Art program as your major.
As an Art major, you’ll need to be aware of three important program requirements that shape your experience. All students begin with the W.A.S.H. program, a foundation sequence that develops essential creative and critical skills. Every Art major must also meet the Laptop Requirement, ensuring you have the technology needed for your coursework. Finally, students pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts complete a BFA Review, where faculty provide feedback on your progress and readiness to advance in the program.
W.A.S.H. Program
All Art majors begin in the W.A.S.H. (Workshop in Art Studio and History) Program, which introduces core skills and creative practices.
Laptop Requirement
Art students are required to have a laptop that meets program specifications to support coursework and creative projects.
BFA Review
BFA students complete a mid-program portfolio review to assess progress and readiness for advanced coursework.
Understanding Program Requirements
Every artist’s path includes important steps that shape their skills and creativity. Learn how the W.A.S.H. Program, laptop requirements, and the BFA Review prepare you for success at SHSU and beyond.
The W.A.S.H. (Workshop in Art Studio and History) Program is the starting point for all first-year Art majors. Through a combination of studio practice, design, and art history, W.A.S.H. helps students build essential creative and technical skills while exploring contemporary approaches to art-making. The program also fosters collaboration and community, giving you the chance to grow alongside other emerging artists.
Note for Transfer Students: A dedicated W.A.S.H. section ensures transfer students receive the same foundational experience and a smooth transition into advanced coursework.
All Art majors are required to have a personal laptop capable of running the latest Adobe Creative Cloud software. For most students, a standard MacBook Pro will meet program needs. Animation and Graphic Design students may want to consider upgraded models for improved performance.
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Recommended Computer: Macintosh laptops are preferred for their reliability, high-quality displays, and alignment with industry standards. However, any laptop that can meet course requirements is acceptable.
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Software Access: Most required software is provided at no cost to students enrolled in Art courses. If additional software is needed, faculty will notify students.
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Purchase Options: Students may buy laptops through SHSU’s personal purchase program. AppleCare is strongly recommended for durability and support.
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Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available to help cover laptop costs. Students should consult the SHSU Financial Aid Office to discuss eligibility.
Why it Matters: A personal computer is an indispensable tool for creating art and design. Having 24/7 access to your own workspace allows you to produce more work, better work, and spend more time developing your creativity — an investment that pays off in your education and future career.
The BFA Review is a milestone evaluation required for students pursuing the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Conducted after completing foundational coursework, this review gives faculty the opportunity to assess your artistic growth, technical skills, and conceptual development.
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Purpose: The review ensures you are prepared for advanced studio courses and can successfully progress toward completing your BFA.
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Format: You will present a portfolio of work for evaluation. Faculty will provide feedback on your strengths, areas for improvement, and overall readiness.
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Outcome: Passing the review allows you to continue in the BFA program. If additional development is needed, students will receive scores that indicate areas for improvement. The BFA Review may be repeated one time the following semester only. Students who do not pass the second attempt may pursue a BA in Art or choose another major at SHSU.
Why it Matters: The review is not only a requirement — it is also a valuable learning experience. You’ll gain constructive feedback, sharpen your artistic voice, and build confidence in your work as you move toward becoming a professional artist.