Ceramics is part of the larger Spatial Arts program within the School of Art and Design. It is an interdisciplinary program that encourages students at all levels to work with media/materials and faculty teaching in all areas of our program, including ceramics, glass, metals/casting, small metals/jewelry, textiles, performance and installation. Spatial Art strives in all areas to find a balance between the teaching of techniques, media skill/craftsmanship, and tool use with conceptual thinking, imaginative and creative problem solving, and personal aesthetic development. In addition to core classes in spatial art, students are required to take core pictorial art classes that stress the use of color, design, drawing and painting skills.
For more information on undergraduate programs in ceramic arts, contact Stan Welsh, or see Advisement Aids and Programs and Degrees
The MFA is a 60-unit program and is the terminal degree for the studio artist. It is designed for those who wish to pursue a professional career as a visual artist or to teach studio art at the college or university level. It has as its objectives the acquisition of skills, knowledge, and understanding necessary to function at this level. The 60-unit credit requirement for the degree is divided between academic course work in Art History and critical theory and practiced criticism (21 units), and studio work (39 units). Within each area there are specific courses required; the remainder of the program (27 units) is made up of electives which enables the student to choose from a range of classes in their concentration or related fields. The student's program is planned with the help of the student's thesis committee and the Art graduate advisor.
Those seeking admission to the MFA program must possess the equivalent of the BA in Art degree at San Jose State University and pass a portfolio review. The BA Art degree must represent a minimum of 60 units in Art. Of the 60, twelve must be in Art History (six lower, six upper division). The remaining 48 units must be in the appropriate Studio classes. No graduate credit is given to classes taken to make up any undergraduate deficiencies.
The portfolio review consists of an evaluation of the applicant's artwork, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. The review is highly selective; the faculty expects applicants to show high potential for significant professional accomplishment. Typically no more than 30% of those who apply are granted admission.
For more information on the MFA degree in ceramic arts, contact Stan Welsh or Deborah Wijas, or see the Graduate Program Site.