Envision. Engage.
Expand. Evolve.

Cliffe College of Creative Arts

Artistic and Academic Excellence

Cliffe College of Creative Arts is a dynamic component of YSU’s campus and a major regional arts resource. Our community of artists, educators, and scholars is engaged in nationally accredited programs and innovative, immersive experiences. Exhibitions and performances include more than 250 events annually that feature our talented students, faculty, and guest artists from across the globe. 

Explore Cliffe College and learn more about all we have to offer. Our nearly 40 graduate and undergraduate degrees and minors explore a vast range of disciplines within the arts. Extraordinary facilities include state-of-the-art technology, theaters, art studios, concert halls, the McDonough Museum of Art, and more. Let us position you for success, no matter where your career path takes you!

Department of Art

For nearly a century, we've empowered students to follow their passions and develop skills to thrive within the dynamic field of the visual arts. Our graduates—Emmy® Award winning designers, studio artists, educators, and more—work in every area of today's creative industries. The possibilities and opportunities are endless, and we'll help you define your journey.

Dana School of Music

For over 150 years, we've furthered the goals of students—like you—who aspire to careers as performers, educators, composers, and more. Our alumni perform on the world's finest stages, earn GRAMMY® Awards, and teach in classrooms across the globe. We'll prepare you for a successful career, no matter where your aspirations lie.

University Theatre

For half a century, we've inspired students who wish to pursue a career in the theatre and entertainment industries. Alumni perform on stage and screen, from Hadestown to Days of Our Lives, and earn nominations and awards from The Tony's to The GRAMMYS!® Whether in the spotlight or behind the scenes, we'll prepare you for success!

Explore our majors

No matter the degree you’re seeking—from traditional to cutting-edge—there’s no better place to determine your own path than in the Cliffe College of Creative Arts. With nearly 40 majors and minors, you can choose the undergraduate or graduate degree that will help you fulfill your unique aspirations and goals. Wherever your journey takes you, you’ll be prepared for an enduring career.
The Department of Art is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
The Dana School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music.
the impact of cultural arts and performance

Student voices

Student and Faculty Spotlight

Graduate Student & Faculty

String Quartet

Graduate student Erick Ramos and Dana School of Music Faculty perform an excerpt from Ravel’s only string quartet, String Quartet in F Major.

Explore Bliss Hall

In Bliss Hall, imagination and inspiration are front and center—our facilities encourage exploration and innovation. You’ll utilize a diverse complement of spaces and equipment that support your creative activityfrom galleries and theaters to industry-standard digital labs and technology. Production and performance halls feature Ford Theater, a 400-seat proscenium space; Spotlight Theater, a 120-seat black-box theater; and the 250-seat Bliss Recital Hall. Galleries include the John J.  McDonough Museum of Art and Judith Rae Solomon Gallery. Teaching/learning facilities encompass spacious studios, distinct rehearsal spaces, costume design and scenic shops, state-of-the art recording studio, and more. Whether you’re creating, performing, rehearsing, or studying, you’ll have outstanding facilities at your disposal.

What's next?

Talk to Us

We know you have questions about your future in the Cliffe College of Creative Arts and you can contact an advisor to help answer any questions you may have.