The Ceramics program provides a dynamic and supportive environment for the personal, professional and artistic growth of each student through a thoughtful and challenging inquiry into all aspects of ceramics. Studio work is coupled with reading, research and discussion of historical and contemporary issues. Functional, sculptural, conceptual and mixed media formats are investigated and encouraged. Our close proximity to New York City (90 minutes) affords easy access to major museums, collections, galleries and private collections.
The undergraduate degree is offered in the larger context of the liberal arts college. General education requirements depend upon which degree program the student has chosen. Students in the Art Department may choose between the BA, BS, and BFA degree options.
BA and BS Programs
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual Arts is geared towards the Liberal Arts degree with a concentration in Art.
The Bachelor of Science (BS) is either a Liberal Arts or Education Degree. It has a focus in, and allows for, a concentration in ceramics (or other studio area).
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a professional degree in Art, with a major emphasis in studio ceramics.
Many students choose to "double major" in Art Education and the BFA program in ceramics. Several of our alumni have competed successfully for great teaching positions overseeing the ceramics, sculpture or 3-D programs in K through 12 schools. Administrators have indicated that the BFA gives them an "edge".
BFA Program
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) is a professional degree that provides the skills and knowledge to succeed in one's professional life. We work with students to foster creative thinking and problem solving skills. These skills, coupled with such qualities as initiative, discipline and integrity, are essential for student success. We expect each individual to aspire to a high standard of professionalism and studio practice.
Each student ultimately chooses the direction their work takes and is free to choose whatever clay, glazes and firing processes that supports it. This is expressed in the BFA senior studio exhibition. In addition, they will have experience in all aspects of ceramics. This includes ceramic history (with a cultural context relative to their own work); technical skills which include firing gas, wood, electric and other primitive firing methods; a broad range of fabrication and construction techniques; glaze and clay formulation; equipment maintenance and repair; and both wheel and hand construction.
We work with BFA students to identify, create, and secure working experience in the field. Through internships, apprenticeships, studio assistantships, and workshop experiences, BFA students are able to experience life and work as a studio ceramist. BFA students begin to look ahead early, planning for the future, so as to create options for a successful work-life as studio practitioners, teachers or as other creative professionals.
