The arts are a beloved part of the Iowa experience. Whether you’re interested in studio art, cinema, dance, music, or theatre, we have something for you. Best of all, you’ll receive guidance from internationally recognized instructors as you develop your craft.
Explore the arts at Iowa
Art
Be immersed in a multidisciplinary, award-winning studio art environment, receive training from internationally recognized faculty, and create original works of art.
Art history
Explore the historical relationships between societies and their art by understanding and interpreting the original contexts and meanings of various art forms.
Cinematic arts
Develop your filmmaking skills and artistic vision, explore the history of cinema, and learn to create and understand film at one of the country's pioneering cinema programs.
Dance
Receive conservatory-level training and enjoy multiple performance opportunities while benefiting from a comprehensive liberal arts education.
Music
Enhance your musical knowledge and skills, perform in state-of-the-art concert halls, and learn from internationally-recognized faculty as part of a well-rounded education.
Theatre arts
Join an artistic community where you'll gain hands-on experience in productions, work with experienced faculty, and explore all aspects of theatre through engaging classes.
Why should I choose the arts at Iowa?
You can access our state-of-the-art Voxman Music Building, participate in a highly-respected theatre arts program, or try your hand at studio art with a customized experience. Whatever major you choose, you can enjoy hundreds of free or low-cost concerts, plays, screenings, dance performances, exhibitions, and readings every year.
We encourage you to explore, grow, and experience your career path so you can feel confident in where you’re headed.
Careers our graduates pursue
- TV, film, Broadway, or off-Broadway actor
- Art consultant
- Musical performer
- Curator
- Art conservationist
- Journalist
- Dancer
- Museum educator
- Gallery administrator
- Graphic designer
- Photographer
- Music director
- Screenwriter
- Playwright
- ...and many similar professions
Visual and performing arts news
University of Iowa School of Art and Art History adds design to its name
Rock star faculty: Acclaimed drummer Sam Young found his way to Iowa without missing a beat
CLAS ceramics graduate student creates project showcasing Mexican artists
Theatre arts graduate student brings Nigeria's rich literary culture to Iowa Playwrights Workshop
CLAS theatre arts alum Samuel D. Hunter recognized as CLAS alumni fellow
CLAS cinematic arts faculty member Chris Harris receives Herb Alpert Award
CLAS Professor receives fellowship to support research in dance studies
In the Groove: Meet Five Iowa Grads in the Music Industry
