Students working at easels in a life drawing class

The Arts at Centre

Whether you are interested in taking a course or two, or would like to pursue a career in the arts, Centre’s curriculum is right for you.

The arts play an integral role in the college experience for Centre students. Our faculty nurture students’ creative interests through personal attention and meaningful opportunities to participate in vocal and instrumental music, theatre, dance, cinema, art history, studio art, creative writing, and more. The knowledge gained through the study of the arts contributes to Centre graduates’ lives of leadership, learning, and service.

Majors and Minors in the Arts 

The immersive experience at Centre blends the visual and performing arts with a broad-based liberal arts and sciences education. Students who choose to major or minor in the arts are taught creative thinking and problem-solving skills that will be a part of their artistic expression.

Two students at the Louvre Museum in Paris

Art History

Courses in art history cover the a wide range of global and historical movements and traditions, examining artworks and their context from stylistic, historical, and iconographical points of view.

A student writing in class

Creative Writing

By studying Creative Writing at Centre you will be able to engage in writing in multiple genres, develop and strengthen your skills as a writer with the help of experienced writing mentors, and grow as a communicator of all kinds.

Several students work behind the video camera

Film Studies

Dive into immersive storytelling by studying the art of film and the craft of filmmaking—where aesthetics, technology, history, and narrative all come together.

The horn section of the Centre orchestra

Music

With flexible courses, individual lessons in any instrument, and diverse ensemble participation options, the Music program offers multiple opportunities for all students.

student using clay wheel in ceramics class

Studio Art

Explore visual communication and expression through drawing, oil painting, photography, ceramics, hot glass, and more!

students acting in play

Theatre

Whether onstage or behind the scenes, studying and participating in Theatre builds skills to prepare you for life in the arts and beyond!

The Norton Center for the Arts

Norton Center for the Arts at night

 

The Norton Center for the Arts hosts more than 100 world-renowned performers, speakers and musicians every year. This dynamic touring venue gives our students the chance to see, learn from, and even work alongside professionals from all over the world. 

Student performances take place in the Norton Center — in the 1,500 seat Newlin Hall; Weisiger Theatre, a 360-theatre in the round; or recital halls or the black box theatre. 

Learn more about the Norton Center