Departments

Educating Socially Conscious Artists, Educators, and Scholars

At the Howard University College of Fine Arts, we inspire students to find their voices and grow their craft. Learn about our departments below.

Department of Art

The Department of Art provides rigorous instruction in the practice, history, and critical study of the visual arts and design. Students develop the creative, analytical, and professional skills needed to pursue careers as artists, designers, fashion merchandisers, interior designers, curators, and art historians. Through studio practice and scholarly inquiry, graduates are prepared to contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary visual culture.

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A portrait painted by James A. Porter.
An art student presenting a painted portrait.
A student artist with three large paintings.
An art student drawing.
A student working on a clay sculpture.
A student standing next to her painting.

Department of Music

The Department of Music offers a rigorous and inspiring environment for the study and performance of music. Our mission is to educate talented and diverse students with strong artistic and academic potential, preparing them for professional careers and advanced study. The department emphasizes the rich musical traditions of the African Diaspora while fostering cultural exchange and artistic innovation within a global musical community.

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A trumpet player.
Violinists practicing at the Department of Music.
Three vocalists performing at the Department of Music.
A guitarist from the Department of Music performing.
Trumpet players at a recording studio in the Department of Music.
Brass instrument musicians practicing at the Department of Music.

Department of Theatre Arts

The Department of Theatre Arts prepares theatre and dance artists, scholars, educators, and creators to engage deeply with the performing arts. Through rigorous training and critical study, students explore performance, history, theory, and production while developing their artistic voice. The department is committed to advancing the traditions, experiences, and aesthetics of Black theatre and dance while cultivating artists who tell bold stories on stage, on screen, and in community.

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Howard University musical theatre students dancing.
Musical theatre performers onstage.
Three Howard University theatre arts performers in costume standing side-by-side.
Howard University theatre performers in costume onstage.
A dancer performing onstage.
Howard University theatre arts students performing in costume.

Featured Faculty