Ceramic Arts (Certificate)

Program Overview

Exploring processes, building skills

The program emphasizes universal design principles and development of technical proficiency. Faculty who are themselves accomplished ceramic artists teach techniques, treatments and properties associated with clay, as well as forming, texture, color, surface decoration, glazing, firing and more. Outstanding facilities include a kiln pavilion that has five atmospheric kilns: exploratory research, production soda, large-scale sculpture, hybrid gas/soda/wood, and a Sanderson ECO wood train.Through study and studio work, and hands-on experience with these kilns, students produce a comprehensive body of work.

Career focused

Secondary art teachers find the program ideal for obtaining continuing education credits or adding a ceramic arts focus to their teaching. Working artists and those considering a career in the field — perhaps in a gallery, production, a supply house or as an independent artist — benefit from courses in art management and marketing. The capstone project makes further career connections as students explore and define how their personal aesthetics communicate and connect with people in a way that is professionally viable.

Concentrated format, accelerated completion

Courses are concentrated in a series of intensive weekends throughout the year or in rigorous one-week and two-week sessions during the summer, allowing students to complete the program in as little as a year if they wish. Credits may be applied toward Hood’s M.A. or MFA in Ceramic Arts.

Workshops and events

The Hood College Graduate School also offers workshops, studio courses and events designed to allow ceramic artists, both experienced and aspiring, to gain specialized knowledge in the field. 

Program Contact