School of Visual Art and Design

The School of Visual Art and Design at the University of South Carolina boasts the most comprehensive Visual Arts program in South Carolina. We offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in Art Education, Art History, Studio Art, and Media Arts.

Visiting Artist and Scholar Series

View upcoming visiting artists and scholars.
McMaster Gallery

Learn about the University of South Carolina's art gallery.
SVAD Projects

A dynamic webportal for current and prospective students filled with virtual exhibitions, videos, and more.

Explore Our Programs

It is an exciting time to be a student in the School of Visual Art and Design! Our undergraduate and graduate students are engaged in hands-on art and media making, teaching, and arts-related research of all kinds.

Our students are excelling in internships, studying abroad for immersive experiences in art and culture, designing their senior thesis exhibitions, and participating in Columbia, South Carolina’s thriving art scene that includes museums, galleries, community art centers, a film festival and art house cinema, and so much more. A degree from our programs will prepare you to launch your arts career.

Tours and Information Sessions

Prospective student information sessions and tours of the School of Visual Art and Design take place on Friday afternoons from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Make your reservation through the USC Visitor Center.

Upcoming Events

SVAD Alumni Residency

Ongoing through Monday, Jul. 31, 2023

Location: See event description for more details.

Cost: N/A

SVAD Alumni Residency Exhibition

Ongoing through Friday, Aug. 25, 2023

Location: See event description for more details.

Cost: Free and open to the public

View the Calendar

Share in Our Passion for Creativity

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.