Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art - Ceramics

Most of our students are B.F.A. majors, giving them the greatest opportunity to develop strong portfolios before heading off to their next challenge after graduation. The B.F.A. program is specifically designed to ensure a balance of studio experiences across a range of areas, even in the junior and senior years. Unlike some programs where students can become isolated in their area of emphasis, our curriculum requires continued exploration of alternative approaches throughout all four years. In order to enter the B.F.A. program the student must submit a portfolio of 10 examples of their artwork. Currently, we use the portfolio review as a way of assessing student capabilities as they enter the program. This helps faculty identify strengths and weaknesses of incoming students. While it is necessary to submit a portfolio to declare or switch to the B.F.A. major, portfolio submission status will not keep students from enrolling in individual courses. However, submitting the portfolio as early as possible is the best way to ensure good, accurate academic advising. Students must complete 78 hours in art, at least 16 of which must be at the 300/400 level, with minimum grades of C. Ceramics The Ceramic program at Salisbury University will prepare students for a career in ceramics, enter MFA graduate program, or launch a career as a production potter/designer/clay artist. It is the study of all clay, glazes, materials, kiln firings and ceramic world history. At Salisbury University, Ceramics is made up of five, four credit, core classes, one of which is an option required in the Art Core. Ceramic I introduce students to the basic methods in hand building and throwing on the potter's wheel using varied clay bodies. Loading kilns, glazing techniques and the impact ceramics has on the world as we study its history; Ceramics as a utilitarian craft to ceramics as a Fine Art Sculpture media. Advanced Ceramics courses, Ceramics II, III, and advanced study in ceramics further emphasizes the technical aspect of throwing on the potter's wheel and varied advanced kiln firing techniques. Independent study in ceramics develops expertise in the advanced science of ceramics art.