Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts
Total graduates
81
2025 · 8 schools
International share
18.5%
15 international students
Bachelor's degrees
68
16.2% international
Master's degrees
11
36.4% international
Overview
Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts is a specialized field that explores the creative and technical aspects of fiber-based materials and their applications in art, design, and functional textiles. This discipline encompasses a wide array of techniques, including weaving, knitting, dyeing, and surface design, allowing students to experiment with various fibers such as cotton, wool, silk, and synthetic materials.
Students pursuing this major gain a comprehensive understanding of the history and cultural significance of textiles, as well as contemporary practices in textile art. The curriculum typically includes courses in design principles, color theory, textile science, and digital fabrication methods, enabling students to develop both their artistic vision and practical skills.
Through hands-on projects and studio work, students learn to create original pieces, ranging from functional textiles like clothing and home décor to conceptual artworks that challenge traditional perceptions of fiber arts. They also explore sustainable practices in textile production, addressing the environmental impact of the fashion and textile industry.
Graduates of Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts can pursue diverse career paths, including textile design, fashion design, art conservation, and education. Many find opportunities in the art world, working as independent artists or collaborating with galleries, while others may enter the fashion industry, home textiles sector, or even product development for textile companies. Overall, this major offers a unique blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural exploration, making it an enriching choice for those passionate about the art of textiles.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2002 to 2025, graduates fell 49% and the international share went from 9.5% to 18.5%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 8 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #109 | Temple University | Pennsylvania | 9 | 1 |
| — | Rhode Island School of Design | Rhode Island | 34 | 11 |
| — | Maryland Institute College of Art | Maryland | 12 | 2 |
| — | Kansas City Art Institute | Missouri | 10 | 0 |
| — | Massachusetts College of Art and Design | Massachusetts | 8 | 0 |
| — | California College of the Arts | California | 3 | 0 |
| — | Cranbrook Academy of Art | Michigan | 3 | 1 |
| — | Haywood Community College | North Carolina | 2 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | 93,560 | — | $94,700 |
| Craft Artists | 4,580 | $23.91 | $49,740 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.