The mission of the department is to enhance the intellectual, ethical, cultural, and professional development of fine arts and communications students. The faculty is committed to preparing students to become competent professionals in music, art, theatre, communication studies, journalism and mass communications.
The University of South Carolina Upstate Visual Arts program is known for its commitment to excellence, preparing students in current technical practices and conceptual foundations within the visual arts.
Founded in 1975 as The Shoestring Players, the Upstate Theatre at has grown from a student group to a dynamic entity within the Department of Fine Arts and Communication Studies. Committed to inclusiveness and social awareness, the organization stands against racism and celebrates cultural diversity in its performance facilities, including the 450-seat Proscenium Theatre and the Studio Theatre.
