College of Communication and Fine Arts

Programs

At the College of Communication and Fine Arts (CCFA), students don’t just study creativity, they live it every day in a city that moves to its own rhythm. With Memphis as both classroom and inspiration, our diverse curriculum cultivates creativity, critical thinking, and professional expertise across disciplines such as art, communication, design, dance, journalism, film, music, strategic media, architecture, and theatre. Our programs combine hands-on experiences with academic rigor, encouraging innovation and collaboration across fields. Whether you're capturing stories through film, performing on stage, designing for impact, or creating visual art that challenges conventions, you’ll be guided by dedicated faculty and supported by outstanding facilities. CCFA at the University of Memphis empowers students to thrive in their careers and contribute meaningfully to the cultural life of Memphis and beyond.


Discover Your Path


Explore the full breadth of academic opportunities at the CCFA through our undergraduate and graduate catalogs. Shaped by the creative energy of Memphis, these comprehensive guides provide an in-depth look at our diverse degree programs, outlining course requirements, curriculum structure, and key learning outcomes. Whether you are charting your academic journey or deepening your expertise, the catalogs offer a roadmap to the innovative, hands-on education that defines CCFA and reflects the spirit of the city we call home.

Undergraduate Catalog > Graduate Catalog >

 

Architecture

Embark on a captivating exploration of architectural innovation.
Designing the future begins with the spaces we shape today. Memphis offers a rich context where architecture becomes more than structure; it becomes a dialogue with history, innovation, and community. Architecture is the art and science of designing spaces that balance function, aesthetics, and sustainability. It is a compelling field for those who want to address social needs through design. At the University of Memphis, students use the city as a living classroom, gaining real-world experience that prepares them to make lasting contributions to communities. Learn More >

Architecture

Explore Architecture Programs

  • Architecture, (B.F.A.)
  • Interior Architecture, (B.F.A.)
  • Architecture, (Accelerated B.F.A./M.Arch.)
  • Architecture, (M.Arch.)

 

Art and Design

Unleash your creativity and discover endless possibilities.
Creative discovery thrives in places where culture runs deep. With a strong visual arts scene and a history of bold expression, the Memphis environment encourages students to explore art and design as powerful tools for communication. This field invites students to develop their imagination, sharpen their critical thinking, and communicate visually in ways that influence culture and innovation. At the University of Memphis, students learn in a vibrant creative community where their work is shaped by both tradition and contemporary practice. Learn More >

Art and Design

Explore Art and Design Programs

Art Education Concentration, (B.F.A.)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education prepares students to become creative leaders in classrooms, museums, and community arts organizations. This concentration emphasizes studio practice, pedagogy, and educational theory, equipping students with both artistic expertise and the skills needed to inspire the next generation of makers and thinkers. Possible career pathways could include K–12 Art Teacher (with licensure), Museum or Gallery Educator, Community Arts Coordinator, Teaching Artist, and Arts Administrator. Graduates are prepared to integrate creative practice with meaningful educational impact across diverse settings.


Fashion Design Concentration, (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design develops students’ skills in apparel design, construction, and creative expression. Students explore both traditional and innovative approaches to fashion while learning about sustainability, global markets, and cultural influence. Possible career pathways could include Fashion Designer, Technical Designer, Costume Designer, Trend Forecaster, Textile Designer, and Creative Director. Graduates of this program are positioned to shape the future of fashion through creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation.


Fashion Merchandising Concentration, (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Merchandising blends business strategy with creative industry knowledge. Students learn about consumer behavior, retail management, product development, and global supply chains, preparing them to lead in the fast-paced fashion industry. Possible career pathways could include Merchandise Buyer, Fashion Marketing Specialist, Retail Manager, Product Developer, Visual Merchandiser, and Brand Strategist. With this degree, graduates are ready to bridge the worlds of design, commerce, and consumer engagement.


Global Art Histories Concentration, (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Global Art Histories equips students with critical tools to study, interpret, and preserve art across cultures and time periods. With a focus on research, writing, and visual analysis, students gain the skills to engage with art as a reflection of cultural identity, politics, and history. Possible career pathways could include Art Historian, Curator, Museum or Gallery Professional, Archivist, Arts Writer or Critic, and Cultural Heritage Specialist. This program prepares graduates for roles that connect the past to the present while shaping how we understand visual culture.


Graphic Design Concentration, (B.F.A.)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design emphasizes creative problem-solving, visual communication, and technological expertise. Students build skills in typography, branding, digital media, user experience, and motion design, preparing them for careers in today’s dynamic design industries. Possible career pathways could include Graphic Designer, Art Director, User Experience (UX) Designer, Motion Designer, Brand Strategist, and Creative Entrepreneur. Graduates of this program are equipped to lead in shaping messages, identities, and experiences that connect with audiences.


Photography Concentration, (B.F.A.)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography prepares students to explore photography as both a creative medium and a professional practice. Through coursework in digital imaging, studio practice, and critical theory, students gain the technical expertise and artistic voice to succeed in diverse fields. Possible career pathways could include Commercial Photographer, Fine Art Photographer, Photojournalist, Creative Director, Exhibition Curator, and Multimedia Artist. Graduates are ready to engage with the world through powerful visual storytelling and creative exploration.


Studio Arts Concentration, (B.F.A.)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Arts provides students with an intensive foundation across multiple disciplines, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking. Emphasizing experimentation, craft, and critical inquiry, the program fosters individual expression and technical mastery. Possible career pathways could include Studio Artist, Exhibition Designer, Arts Educator (non-licensure), Gallery or Museum Professional, Fabricator, and Creative Entrepreneur. Graduates are prepared to thrive as professional artists and innovators within the contemporary art world.


Visual Arts Concentration, (B.A.)
The Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts offers a flexible approach for students who wish to combine creative practice with interdisciplinary study. Students explore a range of artistic media alongside coursework in history, theory, and general studies, allowing for a broad foundation in visual culture. Possible career pathways could include Visual Artist, Arts Administrator, Museum or Gallery Professional, Community Arts Organizer,  Creative Consultant, Entrepreneur. This program is ideal for students who want to integrate art-making with broader academic or professional goals.

Art History Minor
The Art History Minor introduces students to the study of art across cultures and time periods. Students develop critical skills in research, writing, and visual analysis while exploring art as a reflection of cultural identity and history. This minor could support career opportunities in museums, galleries, archives, education, and cultural heritage fields.


Fashion Design Minor
The Fashion Design Minor provides students with foundational skills in apparel design, construction, and creative expression. Students explore both traditional and contemporary approaches to fashion while considering the role of culture and sustainability. This minor could support career opportunities in fashion design, costume design, textiles, and creative direction.


Fashion Merchandising Minor
The Fashion Merchandising Minor blends creative industry knowledge with business fundamentals. Students learn about consumer behavior, retail practices, product development, and global markets. This minor could support career opportunities in fashion marketing, retail management, product development, merchandising, and brand strategy.


Graphic Design Minor
The Graphic Design Minor introduces students to visual communication, typography, and digital design tools. Students gain skills that can be applied to branding, digital media, and creative problem-solving in a variety of industries. This minor could support career opportunities in graphic design, marketing, communications, and digital content creation.


Photography Minor
The Photography Minor gives students a foundation in both traditional and digital photography. Coursework emphasizes technical skills, creative expression, and visual storytelling. This minor could support career opportunities in photography, journalism, visual arts, multimedia production, and creative industries.


Studio Arts Minor
The Studio Arts Minor allows students to explore creative expression across disciplines such as painting, sculpture, ceramics, and printmaking. Students gain hands-on experience in traditional and contemporary media, developing a personal artistic voice. This minor could support career opportunities in visual arts, education, design, and creative entrepreneurship.


Web Design Minor
The Web Design Minor equips students with skills in interactive design, user experience, and digital media. Students learn to design and develop websites that are visually compelling and functionally effective. This minor could support career opportunities in web design, digital media, marketing, user experience (UX), and creative technology fields.

Graphic Design, (Accelerated B.F.A./M.F.A.)
The Accelerated B.F.A./M.F.A. in Graphic Design offers a streamlined pathway for highly motivated students to earn both the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and the Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design in a reduced timeframe. This program combines intensive undergraduate training in typography, branding, digital media, and user experience with advanced graduate-level study focused on research, creative leadership, and professional practice. Students develop strong conceptual, technical, and collaborative skills while building a body of work that demonstrates both artistic vision and scholarly depth. Possible career pathways could include Graphic Designer, Art Director, Creative Director, User Experience (UX) Designer, Design Strategist, Educator in Higher Education, and Independent Creative Entrepreneur. Graduates of the accelerated program are prepared to enter the profession at an advanced level, leading in innovation, scholarship, and creative practice within the design industry and beyond.

African American – African Diaspora Art Histories, (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in African American – African Diaspora Art Histories provides advanced study of the artistic traditions, histories, and cultural contributions of African American and African Diaspora communities. Students gain expertise in critical theory, visual analysis, and historical research while engaging with questions of identity, representation, and cultural memory. Possible career pathways could include Art Historian, Curator, Archivist, Arts Writer or Critic, Cultural Heritage Specialist, and Educator.


African American and African Diaspora Art Histories Concentration with Museum Studies Certificate, (M.A.)
This Master of Arts concentration in African American and African Diaspora Art Histories combined with a Museum Studies Certificate equips students with both deep art historical knowledge and applied professional training in museums and cultural institutions. Students explore African American and African Diaspora traditions while gaining hands-on experience in collections, exhibitions, and public programming. Possible career pathways could include Curator, Museum Professional, Collections Manager, Cultural Heritage Specialist, and Community Engagement Coordinator.


Ceramics Concentration, (M.F.A.)
The Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics offers intensive studio-based study in ceramic arts, encouraging both technical mastery and conceptual exploration. Students experiment with form, surface, and material while developing an independent creative voice. Possible career pathways could include Studio Artist, Ceramics Educator in Higher Education, Exhibition Artist, Fabricator, and Community Arts Organizer.


Egyptian Art and Archaeology, (M.A.)
The Master of Arts in Egyptian Art and Archaeology provides specialized training in the art, history, and material culture of ancient Egypt. Students study archaeological practice, art historical analysis, and cultural interpretation while often engaging with collections-based learning. Possible career pathways could include Archaeologist, Egyptologist, Museum Curator, Researcher, and Cultural Heritage Specialist.


General Art History, (M.A.)
The Master of Arts in General Art History prepares students for advanced scholarship in art across global traditions and time periods. Students gain expertise in research methods, critical analysis, and art historical writing. Possible career pathways could include Art Historian, Curator, Archivist, Arts Writer or Critic, and Educator.


Graphic Design Concentration, (M.F.A.)
The Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is a terminal degree that emphasizes advanced research, creative practice, and professional leadership in design. Students explore design theory, visual communication, emerging technologies, and cross-disciplinary collaboration while building a significant portfolio and scholarly body of work. Possible career pathways could include Creative Director, Design Strategist, Art Director, User Experience (UX) Designer, Independent Entrepreneur, and Professor of Design.


Museum Practices, (M.A.)T
he Master of Arts in Museum Practices prepares students for professional careers in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Coursework emphasizes collections management, curation, education, and community engagement, giving students both theoretical and applied experience in the field. Possible career pathways could include Curator, Collections Manager, Registrar, Museum Educator, Exhibition Designer, and Program Coordinator.


Painting Concentration, (M.F.A.)
The Master of Fine Arts in Painting provides intensive studio training, critical inquiry, and professional preparation for artists working in painting and related media. Students develop a strong personal practice supported by rigorous critique and research. Possible career pathways could include Professional Studio Artist, Educator in Higher Education, Exhibition Artist, and Creative Entrepreneur.


Printmaking/Photography Concentration, (M.F.A.)
The Master of Fine Arts in Printmaking/Photography encourages experimental and critical approaches to print and photographic media. Students develop advanced technical skills, conceptual frameworks, and a distinctive artistic practice. Possible career pathways could include Studio Artist, Educator in Higher Education, Exhibition Artist, Multimedia Artist, and Gallery Professional.


Sculpture Concentration, (M.F.A.)
The Master of Fine Arts in Sculpture emphasizes advanced study in three-dimensional practices, from traditional fabrication to contemporary installation and digital processes. Students are encouraged to explore material innovation, conceptual development, and professional exhibition practice. Possible career pathways could include Studio Artist, Sculpture Educator in Higher Education, Fabricator, Exhibition Artist, and Public Art Creator.

Museum Studies Certificate
The Museum Studies Certificate provides students with professional training for careers in museums, galleries, archives, and cultural institutions. This program emphasizes collections management, curation, education, and community engagement while offering opportunities for hands-on learning through internships and applied projects. Designed to complement graduate study in art history, anthropology, history, or related fields, the certificate could enhance career preparation for roles such as Curator, Collections Manager, Registrar, Museum Educator, Exhibition Designer, and Public Program Coordinator. Graduates are equipped with the specialized knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the museum and cultural heritage sector.


 

Communication and Film

Discover the captivating world where stories unfold and connections are made.
Every city has a story, but few tell it like Memphis. Communication and film bring together the study and practice of storytelling, visual language, and the exchange of ideas across media. This field is ideal for students interested in exploring how narratives shape culture and influence society. At the University of Memphis, students build skills in media strategy, production, and storytelling while engaging with creative industries and diverse communities. Learn More >

Communication and Film

Explore Communication and Film Programs

  • Communication Studies Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Film and Video Production Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Communications Minor
  • Communication, (Accelerated B.A./M.A.)
  • Communication, (M.A.)
  • Communication, (Ph.D.)
  • Health Communication Certificate

 

Journalism and Strategic Media

Embark on an enlightening journey where every story told holds the potential to shape the world.
Strong journalism starts with a commitment to truth and community. In Memphis, a city built on stories of change and resilience, journalism and strategic media provide students with the tools to investigate, report, and inform across platforms. This essential field equips students to shape public understanding and engage with complex issues through ethical reporting and strategic communication. At the University of Memphis, students work with faculty and professionals to build careers that serve both local and global audiences. Learn More >

Journalism and Strategic Media

Explore Journalism and Strategic Media Programs

  • Advertising Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Broadcast Journalism Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Creative Mass Media Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Integrated Social Media Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Journalism (B.A.)
  • Public Relations Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Sports Media Concentration, (B.A.)
  • Advertising Minor
  • Creative Mass Media Minor
  • Journalism Minor
  • Public Relations Minor
  • Social Media Minor
  • Journalism, (Accelerated B.A./M.A.)
  • Strategic Media, (Accelerated B.A./M.A.)
  • Journalism and Strategic Media (M.A.)
  • Mass Media Research Concentration, (M.A.)
  • Open-Source Investigative Reporting Concentration, (M.A.)
  • Entrepreneurial Media Certificate
  • Multimedia Storytelling Certificate
  • Social Media Analysis and Strategy Certificate

 

Music

Unleash the transformative power of sound.
The sound of Memphis is known around the world. As a global music capital, the city offers an extraordinary backdrop for students pursuing music as a form of personal expression and cultural connection. Music is the art of organizing sound and rhythm to evoke emotion and communicate ideas. At the University of Memphis, students explore performance, composition, musicology, and music education while learning from world-class faculty and participating in the city’s dynamic musical ecosystem. Learn More >

Music

Explore Music Programs

  • Commercial Music Performance Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Composition Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Jazz and Studio Composition/Arranging Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Jazz and Studio Performance Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music, (B.A.)
  • Music Business Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music Education (Choral) Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music Education (Instrumental) Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music History Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music Therapy Concentration, (B.M)
  • Performance Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Recording Technology Concentration, (B.M.)
  • Music Industry Minor
  • Music Minor
  • Composition Concentration, (D.M.A.)
  • Composition Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Conducting Concentration, (D.M.A.)
  • Conducting Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Jazz and Studio Music Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Music Education Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Music Education Concentration, (Ph.D.)
  • Musicology Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Musicology Concentration, (Ph.D.)
  • Orff-Schulwerk Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Pedagogy Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Performance Concentration, (D.M.A.)
  • Performance Concentration, (M.Mu.)
  • Artist Diploma Certificate
  • Early Music Certificate
  • Vocology Certificate
 

 

Theatre and Dance

Experience the magic of storytelling through movement.
Performance creates space for connection, reflection, and transformation. In Memphis, where creativity lives on every stage, theatre and dance provide opportunities to explore human experiences through movement and storytelling. This collaborative field helps students build empathy, refine artistic expression, and develop physical communication skills. At the University of Memphis, students engage with a thriving performance culture that links creative work to community engagement and cultural understanding. Learn More >

Theatre and Dance

Explore Theatre and Dance Programs

  • Dance Concentration, (B.F.A.)
  • Dance Science Concentration, (B.F.A)
  • Design and Technical Production Concentration, (B.F.A.)
  • Musical Theatre Concentration, (B.F.A.)
  • Performance Concentration, (B.F.A.)
  • Dance Minor
  • Theatre Minor
  • Design and Technical Production Concentration, (M.F.A.)
  • Directing Concentration, (M.F.A.)