The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts was established on July 1, 1993, to bring a focus to the arts at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. In 2000, the college was officially renamed the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts to recognize a gift of $18 million to the University of Nebraska Foundation by Christina M. Hixson and the Lied Foundation Trust for the college.

The College includes the School of Art, Art History & Design, the Glenn Korff School of Music, the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts, and the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. Affiliated units include the Nebraska Repertory Theatre, the Lied Center for Performing Arts, and the Sheldon Museum of Art.

Our classes are taught by outstanding faculty, and our students have access to internationally renowned guest artists, performers, art exhibits and films. 

Personal attention, global connections and the experience of a Big Ten university are what you’ll get in the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts at one of the best values in American higher education. Scholarships are also available for students in all majors within the college.

University Choir performing in the Sheldon Museum of ArtUNL Chamber Singers perform in the Sheldon Great Hall

Our Mission The Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts will:

  • Offer comprehensive educational programs of study in the arts at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
    • Provide professional preparation for artists, historians, theorists, and arts educators.
    • Sustain a strong commitment to liberal arts education for all UNL students through its course offerings and special programs.
    • Maintain a strong interdisciplinary and continuing education emphasis by creating comprehensive cultural and educational opportunities.
  • Foster creative activity and scholarly research in the arts.
    • Provide opportunities for the performance, collection, preservation, publication, and exhibition of important works.
    • Provide leadership for the understanding and development of the arts in the state and nation.
  • Develop supportive and knowledgeable audiences and patrons for the arts.
    • Support and contribute to collaborative multicultural and intercultural programs.
    • Serve the entire state and region as an important artistic and cultural resource through its exhibitions, performances, and educational outreach programs.