Watkins College of Art + Design
college
Watkins College of Art + Design

Watkins College of Art + Design

Transform the world through design

550 Great Circle Rd, Nashville, TN 37228, USA

About Watkins College of Art + Design

Belmont University's O'More College of Architecture and Design is a dynamic academic unit dedicated to fostering creative talent and impactful design. Established with a rich heritage dating back to O'More College's founding in 1970 and its merger with Belmont in 2018, the college expanded its offerings to include architecture programs. It later integrated the interior design programs from Watkins College of Art + Design following Watkins' merger with Belmont in 2020. The O'More College provides undergraduate degrees in Architecture, Architectural Studies, Interior Design, Fashion Design, and Fashion Merchandising. Emphasizing a blend of traditional design principles and cutting-edge technologies, the curriculum prepares students for professional careers. The college champions a supportive studio environment with small class sizes, fostering collaboration and individual growth, all within Belmont's broader liberal arts and Christian community. Its mission is to empower students to be agents of positive change through design.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
Bachelor

This program provides a comprehensive education in architectural design, history/theory, and building & environmental technologies, preparing graduates for professional licensure. Students develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills through an interdisciplinary approach and integration of professional studies.

5 Years
N/A
USD 42,540 per year
Deadline: N/A
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (B.S.A.S.)
Bachelor

This non-accredited degree provides a firm foundation in the architecture core curriculum for further graduate studies or interdisciplinary paths. Students gain critical thinking and practical skills needed to succeed in the professional setting.

4 years
N/A
N/A
Deadline: N/A
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design
Bachelor

This program focuses on developing creativity and technical skills in designing functional spaces, emphasizing sustainability and innovative tools. Students master space planning, human factors, and explore design history while building a professional portfolio.

N/A
N/A
~ $24,750 / year for international students
Deadline: N/A
Design Communications (Graphic Design)
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

This portfolio-based program develops a broad range of graphic design skills, creating a professional-level portfolio. Graduates contribute to the media landscape with a foundation in information, communication, and understanding the end user.

N/A
N/A
N/A
Deadline: N/A
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Arts
Master

A low-residency program designed for artists and designers of all disciplines, integrating research, writing, and making. The flexible curriculum allows artists to immerse themselves in rigorous practice with a focus on studio projects.

2 years and 1 month
N/A
Tuition per hour, information on need-based scholarships, grants or loans can be found on our Graduate Tuition and Aid Webpage.
Deadline: March 15th, 2025 for priority scholarship consideration

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
0
Students
0
Faculty
0
Alumni
5
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program is currently in candidacy for National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) Accreditation, with projected accreditation status in 2025. The O'More College's Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, and Interior Design programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The Interior Design program also holds Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) since 1984, though it is currently on probation.
Admissions
95-96% (for Belmont University overall)
Acceptance Rate
Deadlines
Rolling admissions; Fall: July 1, Spring: November 1, Summer: May 1
Requirements
Competitive admission. Requires rigorous college-preparatory academic studies, above-average academic and cumulative GPA, and ranking in the top half of the graduating class. SAT/ACT scores are considered but not required (test-optional). International students from non-English-speaking countries must provide English proficiency test scores (TOEFL 80, IELTS 6.5, Duolingo 115). A minimum 3.0 GPA is recommended.

Watkins College of Art + Design Academic FAQ

Watkins College of Art + Design is Transform the world through design

The acceptance rate for Watkins College of Art + Design is 95-96% (for Belmont University overall), reflecting the selectivity of its academic programs.

Applicants are typically required to submit: Competitive admission. Requires rigorous college-preparatory academic studies, above-average academic and cumulative GPA, and ranking in the top half of the graduating class. SAT/ACT scores are consid....

Watkins College of Art + Design provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.), Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (B.S.A.S.), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Interior Design, Design Communications (Graphic Design), Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Arts.

The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, ensuring personalized mentorship and studio culture.

Watkins College of Art + Design is situated in Nashville, United States, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, Watkins College of Art + Design holds accreditations from: The Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program is currently in candidacy for National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) Accreditation, with projected accreditation status in 2025. The O'More College's Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, and Interior Design programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The Interior Design program also holds Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) since 1984, though it is currently on probation..