Program Overview

Art, Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) - Concentration in Ceramic Arts

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with a Concentration in Ceramic Arts is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to foster artistic expression, technical proficiency, and intellectual curiosity. This program is tailored for students who aspire to excel in the field of ceramic arts, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and creative vision necessary to succeed as professional artists or to pursue advanced studies.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Critical Thinking: Art majors will locate, analyze, and synthesize art historical information and context within their own work.
• Degree Program Writing Competency: Students will be able to effectively communicate in writing for purposes of the discipline.
• Direction: Art majors develop a personal direction through their choice of medium, idea, and/or style. Students will demonstrate intellectual and artistic curiosity while committing to improvement.
• Professional Proficiency: Art majors will perceive, discuss, and demonstrate professional proficiency upon graduation by applying their knowledge and skills of fine art.
• Technique: Art majors will demonstrate technical aptitude. The department assesses the technical quality of student production. Each medium varies with its technical demands.

Curriculum Guide

GPA Requirement

• Major GPA: 2.0 or higher
• Overall GPA: 2.0 or higher

Summary

The program requires a minimum of 120 credits, including:

• Rock Studies 2 Requirements: 42 credits
• Other Basic Requirements: 0-3 credits
• Major/Concentration Requirements: 78 credits

Rock Studies 2 Requirements

• Foundations of Academic Discovery
• Critical Writing
• Critical Reading
• Quantitative Reasoning
• Civil Discourse: Theory & Practice, Ethics and Civil Discourse, or Civil Discourse and Democracy
• Integrated Inquiry
• Creative and Aesthetic Inquiry
• Humanities Inquiry
• Social Science Inquiry
• Natural Science Inquiry
• Physical Science Inquiry
• Thematic Thread

Basic Math Requirement

Students must complete a basic math requirement, which may be fulfilled by meeting the required minimum SAT or ACT math score or by completing a course in Beginning Algebra.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Requirement

Students must take and pass a course with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) designation prior to graduation.

Major Requirements

• 39 major credits must be taken at SRU or PASSHE
• 39 major credits must be taken at the 300 level or above
• Required Courses:
  • 2-D Design
  • 3-D Design
  • Basic Studio Drawing
  • Overview of Western Art
  • Overview of World Art
  • Art Seminar
• Art History Electives: Select two from a list of art history courses
• Ceramic Arts Concentration (15 credits): Select 12 credits from basic, intermediate, and advanced studio ceramics, plus a senior project in ceramics
• Additional Studio Requirements: 100-level electives, 200-level electives, 300-level electives, and 400-level electives
• Art Electives: Select from 300-400 level courses

Co-curricular and Experiential Learning

Students are encouraged to explore additional curricular and co-curricular opportunities, including international study programs, High-Impact Practice (HIP) designated classes, student-faculty creative projects, student leadership development, service opportunities, career education and development, internships, student exhibitions, and field experiences.

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

This Curriculum Guide is provided to help SRU students and prospective students better understand their intended major curriculum. Enrolled SRU students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in-progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.

Recommended Four-Year Plan

A detailed four-year plan is provided to guide students through their undergraduate studies, ensuring they meet all requirements for graduation. This plan includes courses in art, general education, and electives, and is designed to be flexible to accommodate different student needs and interests.

Conclusion

The BFA in Art with a Concentration in Ceramic Arts at Slippery Rock University offers a rigorous and comprehensive education in the ceramic arts, preparing students for successful careers as artists, educators, and professionals in related fields. With its emphasis on technical skill, creative expression, and intellectual curiosity, this program provides a solid foundation for students to achieve their artistic and professional goals.