Revised Instructions for Switching from BA to BFA Degree Program
Oberlin College's College of Arts and Sciences offers a unique opportunity for students with a passion for the arts: the BA+BFA program in Integrated Arts. This program allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in just five years.
To be considered for the program, College of Arts & Sciences (BA) students need to submit a Change of Degree Program application. For those currently enrolled in the Conservatory of Music or the double degree (BA/BM) program, a Change of Divisional Status application is also required to become a College of Arts & Sciences student.
The application process is straightforward. It opens on the first day of classes and is due four weeks before the Monday of Fall or Spring Break. The application requires an unofficial copy of the Oberlin transcript, an answer to a question about artistic trajectory, and an artistic portfolio. A BFA Portfolio Submission Confirmation Form must be submitted to confirm the portfolio's readiness for faculty review.
The artistic portfolio can include up to 10 work samples in various formats like video, audio, writing, or images. However, only two time-based work samples (sound and/or video) and two creative writing samples can be submitted.
Decisions for the BA+BFA application are released to students the week before Fall or Spring Break. It's important to note that the Change of Divisional Status application will not be processed until after a decision has been made on the BA+BFA application.
The first four years are spent on Oberlin's campus, providing a solid foundation in liberal arts. The fifth year is a focused, immersive experience in the professional arts community in Cleveland.
Typically, students who have completed more than four semesters at Oberlin are ineligible to apply for the BA+BFA. However, students should contact the program director for special approval prior to completing an application if they have completed more than four semesters at Oberlin.
Applications for the BA+BFA program are reviewed once per semester. The application period for the autumn semester (August/September) typically starts in mid-October and runs until January 15, while the application period for the spring semester (January) start starts from early June and ends on August 15.
The BA+BFA program in Integrated Arts offers a flexible and comprehensive approach to arts education, allowing students to choose courses from across the arts. This makes it an attractive option for students with diverse interests in the arts.
In summary, the BA+BFA program at Oberlin College provides a unique opportunity for students to earn both a BA and a BFA in Integrated Arts over five years. The application process is straightforward, and decisions are made before Fall or Spring Break. If you're an Oberlin College student with a passion for the arts, consider applying for this exciting program.
