College of Arts and Media

Hardin-Simmons University has re-envisioned its fine arts and communication departments with the establishment of the College of Arts and Media, set to open in the fall 2024 semester.

The College of Arts and Media employs the disciplines of communication, musical, theatrical, and visual arts in training student-artists to imagine, create, perform, present, and produce their artistry through the lens of a Christian worldview. The cornerstone of the foundation of the new College will be reimagined curricular offerings which prepare student-artists for successful careers.

Moving from the Cynthia Ann Parker College of Liberal Arts, the College of Arts and Media will house the School of Music, Department of Art, Department of Communication, and Department of Theatre. The Cynthia Ann Parker College of Liberal Arts will continue to offer a robust number of programs.

Faculty and staff who already teach in these departments will shift their designation to the College of Arts and Media.

Lacey Bilyeu, Current Student

“Our music classes have helped me not only grow as a musician but as a person as well. We are blessed to have faculty and staff who are so knowledgeable about the subject but also care about us as well. I know that I now have life-long connections that will always be willing to help wherever I may end up.”

Featured Facts and Information

Students help with digital media at an HSU event.

Digital Media

HSU’s Digital Media degree prepares you for a career in the growing job market for online media. Media is no longer just broadcasting and print. Social media and streaming services have taken over the playing field. Everyone can take part in digital media, from freelancers  to small businesses that want to promote their services.

Explore Digital Media
International chapel band for International Week.

Music, Worship Leadership

Our Music, Worship Leadership degree prepares our students to enter the vast arena of worship ministry including training in worship technology, rehearsal techniques, production elements, service planning, team-building, varied denominational models, worship theology and philosophy, and church administration.

More about Worship Leadership

Musical Theatre

HSU’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre program is one of the leading Theatre degree programs inspired by our Christian faith. Hardin-Simmons University provides unique opportunities to combine your love of theatre with your faith and values. Our Theatre degree graduates are always in high demand both on and off the stage. We focus on skills like accurate communication, building a strong work ethic, and adaptability — traits that are desired in every industry, not just theatre.

Explore our Theatre Program

Victoria Roach ‘22, Anchor & Producer KTAB News Abilene

”The skills that I learned while working in the Media Services department, the creativity that was harvested while assisting in the Theatre department, and the education that I learned from my classes in the Strategic Communications degree program helped in the creation of the journalist that I am today.”

student paintings

Department of Art

As an art major at Hardin-Simmons University, you’ll enjoy intensive study in art, design, and multimedia to prepare you for a variety of careers and graduate programs. From diving into the rich history of art to mastering your specific medium and techniques, our B.F.A. degree will help you discover your strengths and join the centuries-long tradition of creating art.

Explore the Art Program

two students singing

School of Music

Our music students develop lasting personal and professional relationships with each other and faculty members. They also make meaningful connections with others in the music field and around the community. Students have chances to participate around campus in music-related events and programs.

More about the School of Music

Three students in a play.

Department of Theatre

Theatre is an incredibly diverse career field. That’s why we’ve designed a Theatre program with multiple educational tracks to prepare you for the career of your dreams. Choose between the following tracks: Acting, Musical theatre, Stage management, or Theatre design.

More about Theatre at HSU

A professor directs a student in digital media.

Department of Communications

Our Communications Department encompasses our Strategic Communications program and our Digital Media program. Earning a strategic communication degree from Hardin-Simmons University will provide you with the training, experience, and connections to succeed in one of the most fast-paced and exciting career fields. Our Digital Media degree prepares you for a career in the growing job market for online media. Media is no longer just broadcasting and print. Social media and streaming services have taken over the playing field.

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More about Digital Media