Create. Perform. Lead.
At Northwestern State University, CAPA brings together Art, Music, New Media/Journalism/Communication, and Theatre & Dance — a collaborative home where creators become professionals.
From stage and studio to screen and gallery, you’ll learn by doing, guided by award-winning faculty and supported by performance, exhibition, and internship opportunities on day one.
Why CAPA at NSU?
Four dynamic departments, one creative community:
Fine & Graphic Arts; Music; New Media/Journalism/Communication; and Theatre & Dance.
Professional degrees & accreditation: Fine & Graphic Arts is NASAD-accredited
and offers BFA and MA options designed for portfolio-ready outcomes.
Stage, studio, and screen experience:
Perform, exhibit, direct, produce, and publish—plus live-streamed events to share your work with the world.
Scholarships & recognition:
Discipline-specific awards and endowed scholarships support talented artists; CAPA and NSU Marketing were recognized with Chamber Excellence Awards in 2025.
Performances, Exhibitions & Live Streams
From gallery openings in the Orville J. Hanchey Gallery to bands, choirs, orchestras, and theatre productions, there’s always something on stage or on screen. Can’t be here in person? Watch select performances via CAPA Livestream and browse concert programs.
Facilities & Resources
Work in professional spaces across our New Fine Arts Building, galleries, theatres, rehearsal halls, design shops, and digital media labs—plus advising and career guidance tailored to creative careers.
DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PATH in CAPA
- Fine & Graphic Arts: Studio art and graphic design with juried exhibitions and professional critiques.
- Music: Performance, education, composition, and music business with elite ensembles and recording labs.
- New Media, Journalism & Communication: Multimedia storytelling, PR/strategic communication, and content creation in newsroom-style labs.
- Theatre & Dance: Acting, musical theatre, dance, and production/design with mainstage shows and technical shops.
Graduate with a polished portfolio, reel, or recording—and a network that opens doors. Explore program pages to find your fit.
Music
Northwestern State University’s School of Creative and Performing Arts offers one of the most vibrant music programs in the region, blending tradition with innovation. With nationally recognized faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to perform in ensembles, choirs, bands, and orchestras, NSU provides an environment where musicians thrive. Whether your passion is performance, composition, education, or music industry, NSU equips you with the training, experience, and connections to succeed on stage and beyond.
Fine & Graphic Arts
Northwestern State University’s School of Creative and Performing Arts offers one of the most dynamic art programs in the region, where creativity meets professional training. With expert faculty, modern studio spaces, and opportunities to showcase work through exhibitions and community projects, NSU provides an environment where artists thrive. Whether your passion is painting, graphic design, sculpture, or digital media, NSU equips you with the skills, experience, and portfolio to succeed in today’s creative industries.
Theatre & Dance
Northwestern State University’s Theatre & Dance program is a designated Center of Excellence in the Arts and one of only 150 programs in the U.S. accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre. Offering BFA degrees in Dance, Production & Design, and Musical Theatre, as well as a BS in Theatre, the program blends rigorous training with creative exploration. With expert faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous production opportunities, NSU prepares students for professional success and advanced study.
