Syracuse University

It's important to know that requirements at Syracuse vary significantly based on the specific B.F.A. (Bachelor of Fine Arts) or B.I.D. (Bachelor of Industrial Design) program you are applying to.

(Note: The B.S. programs in Studio Arts and Design Studies do not require a portfolio for admission.)

School of Art & School of Design (General B.F.A. / B.I.D. Programs)

This includes majors like Illustration, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, Communications Design, Environmental & Interior Design, Fashion Design, and Industrial & Interaction Design.

• Number of Pieces: 12-20 images of your most recent work.

• Media: A variety of media is encouraged. The portfolio should represent your interests, highlight your ideas and conceptual abilities, and demonstrate your technical skills.

• Key Focus: Syracuse puts a strong emphasis on foundational drawing skills.

  • Observational Drawing: It is strongly suggested that you include a minimum of six drawings from direct observation (not from photos). This can include still lifes, figure drawings, self-portraits, or landscapes. This is especially important for applicants to Illustration, Painting, and Printmaking.

  • Sketchbooks: Including pages from your sketchbook is also a good way to show your creative process and experimentation.

Specific Program Requirements

Some programs within VPA have very different and specific portfolio needs.

Computer Art and Animation (B.F.A.)

• Number of Pieces: 12-20 works.

• Key Focus: The admissions committee for this program wants to see strong drawing skills.

  • Your portfolio should include observational drawings (life drawing, still life) as well as any animation, 3D modeling, or digital art.

  • They specifically state that "computer-generated images can be included... but should be kept to a minimum," as they want to see your artistic fundamentals, not just your software skills.

Film (B.F.A.)

This program does not accept a traditional visual art portfolio. Applicants must choose one of the following:

1. Film Reel: A 3-5 minute film reel of your best motion-based work.

2. Two-Part Film Essay: A creative writing submission.

   • Part One: A 500-word short story (a narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end).

   • Part Two: A 1,000-word "cinematic" adaptation of your story, describing it in visual terms (camera angles, dialogue, setting, etc.).

Art Photography (B.F.A.)

• Number of Pieces: 12-20 images of your best photography work.

• Key Focus: In addition to the images, this program requires a short writing sample (300 words maximum) that answers one of several prompts, such as why you are applying to the program or telling the story behind one of the pieces in your portfolio.