Ceramics & Glass BA (Hons)

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Ceramics & Glass course at UCA Farnham equips students with the skills and knowledge to design and make their own masterpieces. Through a combination of hands-on practice and contextual study, students develop a comprehensive understanding of ceramics and glass, their role in history, and their place in contemporary society. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, industry engagement, and a collaborative learning environment, preparing graduates for successful careers as studio artists, designers, makers, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• The BA (Hons) Ceramics & Glass course at UCA Farnham is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to design and make their own masterpieces.
• This forward-thinking and dynamic course builds on a strong tradition of craft practice, providing students with a unique blend of traditional and modern techniques.
• With access to world-class facilities at the Farnham campus, students can gain firsthand experience working with glass and clay under the guidance of expert staff.
• Through a combination of hands-on practice and contextual study, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of ceramics and glass, their role in history, and their place in contemporary society.

Description:

• This three-year undergraduate degree course is ideal for students with a passion for working with materials and exploring their creative potential.
• Students will learn a range of techniques, from traditional hand-building and throwing to more advanced processes like glass blowing and 3D printing.
• The program also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and contextual awareness, ensuring that students can articulate the meaning and purpose behind their work.

Outline:

Year One:

• Focuses on the fundamentals of ceramics and glass, including hand-building, throwing, mold-making, and basic glasswork.
• Students will explore a variety of materials and processes while developing their technical skills and design thinking.
• They will also be introduced to the history and theory of ceramics and glass, gaining a broader understanding of their role in art and design.

Year Two:

• Students will build upon the skills and knowledge gained in year one, focusing on more advanced techniques and exploring experimental approaches.
• They will have the opportunity to specialize in either ceramics or glass, depending on their interests and goals.
• This year also includes an industry placement or live project, providing students with valuable real-world experience and networking opportunities.

Year Three:

• Students will undertake a major project, which allows them to showcase their individual creativity and technical expertise.
• They will also complete a professional practice module, preparing them for a successful career in the field.
• This final year will culminate in a public exhibition of students’ work, providing them with a valuable opportunity to showcase their talents and receive feedback from the art and design community.

Structure:

• The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars, and independent study.
• Students will have access to dedicated studio spaces and workshops, where they can experiment and refine their skills.
However, the outline suggests a range of modules covering various aspects of ceramics and glass, including:
• Introduction to Ceramics
• Introduction to Glass
• Hand-Building
• Throwing
• Mold-Making
• Glassblowing
• 3D Printing
• History and Theory of Ceramics
• History and Theory of Glass
• Design Thinking
• Critical Analysis
• Professional Practice

Assessment:

Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Practical work
• Written assignments
• Presentations
• Portfolios
• Exhibitions

Criteria:

• The assessment criteria will vary depending on the specific module and assessment method.
• However, general criteria may include:
• Technical skill
• Creativity and originality
• Concept development
• Communication skills
• Historical and theoretical knowledge
• Professionalism

Teaching:

Methods:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Demonstrations
• One-on-one instruction
• Group critiques
• Guest lectures
• Workshops

Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced and passionate professionals, including practicing artists, designers, and academics.
• Faculty members have extensive knowledge and expertise in their respective fields, and they are dedicated to providing students with guidance and support.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a hands-on approach, encouraging students to learn by doing.
• It also promotes a collaborative and supportive learning environment, where students can share ideas and challenge one another.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Upon completion of the program, graduates can pursue various careers in the field of ceramics and glass, including:
• Studio artist
• Designer
• Maker
• Educator
• Technician
• Curator

Opportunities:

• The program prepares graduates for a range of opportunities, including:
• Establishing their own studio practice
• Working for established studios or companies
• Participating in exhibitions and competitions
• Pursuing further studies

Outcomes:

• The program aims to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a competitive and evolving industry.
• Graduates are known for their technical expertise, creativity, and professional demeanor, making them highly sought-after by employers.

Other:

• The program enjoys close links with a range of professional organizations, providing students with networking opportunities and access to industry resources.
• The program offers study abroad opportunities, allowing students to gain international experience and broaden their perspectives.
• Graduates have a strong track record of success, with many going on to exhibit their work internationally and establish successful careers in the field.

UK

Tuition fees - 2024/25 entry Integrated Foundation Year: £9,250 BA course: £9,250 If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, for 2024 you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee of £1,850. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year.

EU

Tuition fees - 2024/25 entry Integrated International Foundation Year: £9,250 (see fee discount information) BA course: £9,250 (see fee discount information) If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, for 2024 you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee of £1,850. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year.

International

Tuition fees - 2024/25 entry Integrated International Foundation Year: £16,950 BA course: £17,500 If you opt to study the Professional Practice Year, for 2024 you will be required to pay a reduced tuition fee of £3,390. You will also incur additional travel and accommodation costs during your Professional Practice year.