Be Prepared for the New Demanding, Tech-Driven Industry

Traditional mediums, foundational design methodology, digital processes, and the latest modern technology all mix beautifully together to expand a creatives’ toolbox and skillset to fit the demands of a modern marketplace. Secure your future as a working artist by choosing this one-of-a-kind degree program .

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Why You’ll Love Traditional/Digital Studies at Belhaven

Traditional Mediums

Learn how to work with traditional mediums, so you know how to approach creative projects from multiple vantage points.

Foundational Design Methodology

Proven methodology explored in community with emerging peers enables you to investigate developing designs that build relationships, inspire, and problem-solve.

Digital Technologies & Strategies

The latest animation tools, AutoCAD, 3D printers, and more help you reach new heights as an artist and designer.

Inspiring Programs

Find out who you are as an artist through energetic, engaging professors who lead you along the path of self-discovery.

13:1 Students to Faculty

Our instructors know and care about you.

State of the Art Studios

Hone your craft in Bitsy Irby’s incredible studios for artists

Expanding Tech

The latest tools at your fingertips

"I came to Belhaven because of its accreditation in all of the arts. It is especially helpful since I am a double major in Graphic Design and Theatre. Because of my degree from Belhaven, I will be able to head out into the world with a strong foundation in acting, as well as be well-rounded enough to take on other theatre related jobs."

Mattea Pierce

"Our art department is extremely beneficial for my personal mindset, career goals and my future career. My professors are patient with me as I build my self-confidence as an artist. Since coming to Belhaven, I know that these are some of the best years of my life. I have already made lifelong connections here."  

Ollie Porter

Aza Raye

"I came to Belhaven to learn more about he artistic process and develop the skills necessary for an illustrator. Although drawing is still a major part of my artistic process, I have become immersed in traditional darkroom photography. Film allows me to capture my love of decay and the way it expresses the effects of time and nature. Through photography, I strive to bring life and presence back to locations that echo with memories long forgotten."

Aza Raye

"At the Belhaven Art Department, you get so much more than simply art classes. I have learned so much about myself, my process, and my relationship with the Lord as I follow him on this path. This department has been a huge blessing to me."

Hannah Mucha

Lamana Stringfellow

"When I came here, I was struck by the loving community that Belhaven offered and encouraged. I was able to pursue my love of art within multiple forms of expression and cultivate a love of God through them. My experience here has been very encouraging."

Lamana Stringfellow. 2023

What Can You Do with a Traditional/Digital Studies Degree?

  • Art director
  • Graphic designer
  • Web designer
  • Branding and visual strategist
  • Production artist
  • Digital sculptor
  • Digital fabrication specialist
  • Professional studio artist
  • Product photographer
  • Fabrication lab manager
  • Digital fabrication lab teacher
people gathered at an art exhibit

A Celebrated Haven for Arts Education

Only 39 universities in the U.S. are accredited in all major arts. Belhaven is one. That means master classes, great performances, and national competitions. When you study art, dance, music, or theatre here, you’re earning a degree from a nationally recognized school for the arts.

See Our Accreditation

Traditional/Digital Studies: What You’ll Study

Double major graduate

Double Major & Get Your 5th Year Free

Fuel your academic passions and expand your career options. Belhaven offers our freshmen a unique deal: double major, and we’ll pay the tuition if you need a fifth year in school. Double major in two arts programs, pair a business degree with a STEM major … the possibilities are endless!

More: Year 5 Free

Opportunities for Student Artists

Students of all disciplines work together in this major collaboration among the Art and Design, Mathematics, and Computer Science Departments.

Physical projects foster technical education and creative exploration. You’ll have a chance to engage your own interests in STEAM, choosing from any one of the following projects:

  • 3D printing
  • Design software
  • Coding
  • Circuitry and microprocessors
  • Sculpting
  • Data science
  • Wood crafting
  • Robotics
  • Virtual reality
  • & more
Belhaven Maker Campus’s footprint spans several lab spaces around the campus including a lab for design, circuitry, and bots. Another is home to the coding lab that covers simple circuits and machine learning to data science. A third hosts the 3D digital fabrication lab and sculpture studio.

Exhibitions are an important and exciting aspect of the arts at Belhaven. As a Tradigital Studies major, you learn the professional practice of exhibitions. Curate, prepare, and install your work so you can share your voice through your art.

Explore the minds and work of other incredible artists. Belhaven brings guest artists to our performing and visual arts centers each semester.

Guest artists enhance your learning experience by sharing their experiences and perspectives. You’ll gain insight on building a successful career as a creative, and you’ll feel inspired through viewing original works and performances.

Our Students' Work

student working on pottery project

Art + Design Scholarships

In addition to our Visit Scholarship, you can supplement your financial aid award with an academic scholarship from Belhaven's School of the Arts!

To qualify, you must be accepted for admission, submit your high school GPA and test scores, and complete your FAFSA. When you schedule a personal visit or attend an Arts Discover Day, we'll assess your scholarship potential when you present your portfolio to one of our professors.

It's time to show off your skills — let's get started!

Start Your Application

Register for Arts Discover Day

Plan a Campus Visit

Contact Us

Office of Admission

Phone: 601-968-5940

Mailing Address:
1500 Peachtree Street, Box 153
Jackson, MS 39202

For campus visit:
Jimmy Hood Welcome Center
855 Riverside Drive
Jackson, MS 39202

Fax: 601-300-2932

admission@belhaven.edu

BU letters displayed outside admission office

Verse of the Year

For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation.

Psalm 100:5