School of the Arts

The School of the Arts offers 15 bachelor's and graduate degrees in art, music, theatre and dance, and presents inspiring, thought-provoking, world-class visual and performing arts events year-round.

About the School of the Arts

The School of the Arts is the epicenter of the University of Nevada, Reno's booming performing and visual arts scene and is comprised of the Department of Art, Art History and Design, the School of Music and the Department of Theatre and Dance. Programs, events and course offerings enrich the cultural life on campus and throughout the region. Faculty members are driven to support students on their academic journey and help them refine their artistic potential. Through courses, public performances and exhibitions, the School of the Arts is increasing our community’s access to world-class artists and arts experiences.

Academic units

people working on sculptures

Department of Art, Art History and Design

Studio and lecture-style classes are combined to offer a comprehensive art education with concentrations in ceramics, digital, education, photography and more.

man playing trumpet

School of Music

Students can learn the fundamentals and theory of music while practicing alongside world-renowned artists in instrumental, band, jazz, symphony and choral ensembles.

view of musical cast on stage

Department of Theatre and Dance

In the Department of Theatre and Dance, students study a variety of dance styles and techniques, and immerse in acting, musical theatre and stage production.

Programs and events

Signature events invite world-class art, music, theatre and dance performers, instruct exceptional students and are fun for all to attend.

Reno Jazz Festival The Reno Jazz Festival hosts jazz students, instructors, performers and fans to play, listen and learn at a three-day festival each spring.
Three men play guitar, bass and drums inside a rehearsal room
Performing Arts Series The School of the Arts hosts the signature Performing Arts Series each season with an incredible lineup of guest artists from all over the world.
Two women play a violin and a cello on stage during a performance
Lake Tahoe Music Camp Lake Tahoe Music Camp offers concert bands, jazz bands, chamber ensembles, music classes and its own private beach on Lake Tahoe for middle and high school students.
Young students playing percussion instruments outside

Parking information

General parking is available in the Brian J. Whalen Parking Complex, which is north of the Church Fine Arts building. The main entrance to the Brian Whalen parking garage is located on the east side of N. Virginia Street, between 14th Street and 15th Street. Parking and Transportation Services can be reached at (775) 784-4654 or email parking_questions@unr.edu.

Directions

School of the Arts events take place in the Church Fine Arts buildingUniversity Foundation Arts building, Jot Travis building and Lombardi Recreation Center on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. The University campus is located at 1664 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89557, near the junction of Interstate 80 and I-580/U.S. 395.

 

Visiting Artist Funds

Funded by student fees, Visiting Artist Funds are equally distributed to the Department of Art, Art History and Design, the School of Music and the Department of Theatre and DancePlease direct your request to your department office.

Fund usage requirements

  1. This funding is provided specifically for visiting artist costs that may include honorarium, travel and lodging.
  2. The marketing of your visiting artist activities/events must include CLA, SOTA, ASUN and GSA marketing identifiers.
  3. SOTA audience questionnaires/surveys must be completed by attendees at your activities/events.
  4. Final reports, including audience questionnaires/surveys, are due within two weeks of the conclusion of the project/event.

School of the Arts news

Explore the latest news and updates about the visual and performing arts.

A human hand going to touch a robot hand.

How does AI-generated art contribute to or challenge traditional notions of creativity?

Associate Professor of Art and Head of Digital Media at the University of Nevada, Reno, explores the relationship between artificial intelligence and creativity

A drawing of dog sitting on a rock.

School of the Arts announces “Doodle Dog” by Alisha Fertal as winner of Fall 2025 Sticker Contest

Make art stick, join the next contest

A dancer on stage, performing.

Fall Dance Festival 2025 showcases bold new dances at University of Nevada, Reno

Don't miss out on this wonderful weekend of true student and alumni talent