University Park,
PA,
United States
Type
Public
Degrees offered
Bachelor's Degree
MFA in Art- Ceramics in University Park United States | Pennsylvania State University
Pennsylvania State University
|
University Park United States
Visit institution website
for more information
Qualification
Masters Degree
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
USD
44,990
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
42 months
Shaped by hand, clay captures the artist's personal touch. The eye shapes the form while the mind and heart imbue the artwork with significance. This intimate interpretation of elements is what gives each piece its distinctive character. Penn State's ceramics program embraces both functional potters and sculptors, equipping every student with the resources to discover and follow their creative path professionally.
To establish a technical foundation, we instruct in traditional ceramic methods such as clay preparation, hand-building, wheel throwing, mold creation, slip casting, glazing, and kiln firing. As students master these fundamentals, they're progressively empowered to explore their personal artistic significance. This journey is enriched through readings, discussions, slide presentations, and visiting artists. Varied faculty perspectives enhance learning by offering broad reference points encompassing modern theory, working artists, exhibition methods, and critique. Active involvement in relevant conferences and symposiums is strongly promoted. Gradually, the creative process evolves organically, blending craft and artistic traditions, occasionally venturing beyond conventional ceramic boundaries. This interdisciplinary approach expands upon the core skills acquired early in the program.
Throughout all levels, ceramic history and contemporary art critique are taught alongside practical studio techniques, preparing students to graduate as reflective practitioners with a developed artistic identity. Our graduates frequently secure professional opportunities including advanced study, residencies, apprenticeships, and teaching positions, with many continuing their ceramic practice long-term. At its heart, Penn State's ceramics program fosters artistic excellence and professional growth.
Destination of Study
Subjects of Study
Language Requirements
English
IELTS 6.5
Qualification Requirements
Applicants apply for admission to the program via the Graduate School application for admission. Requirements listed here are in addition to Graduate Council policies listed under GCAC-300 Admissions Policies.
The Master of Fine Arts program in art, with its emphasis on professional study, is designed for the mature individual who by previous training and study has sufficiently prepared for the undertaking. It is strongly suggested that applicants have a minimum of 12 credits of art history at the undergraduate level. Any qualified student holding a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution may seek admission. The School of Visual Arts requires a minimum of 3.00 junior/senior grade-point average (on a 4.00 scale) for admission to the master of fine arts program. Exceptions to the minimum 3.00 average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, and interests, at the discretion of the program.
In addition to the previous requirements, all applicants must submit:
A portfolio of his/her work to illustrate his/her preparation for graduate study. A portfolio of digital images, rather than actual work, is required. A selection of no fewer than twenty examples should be presented. The majority should be in the area of the applicant's interest.
A statement of professional aims. This statement should include the applicant's intentions for his/her proposed study. Some indications of his/her philosophy, beliefs, and goals in regard to education and art should give evidence that he/she is prepared to undertake the work outlined for the Master of Fine Arts program.
Three letters of reference attesting to the applicant's scholarship and ability to work independently.
International applicants must take and submit scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), with the exceptions noted below. The minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based test, 213 for the computer-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the internet-based test. a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or
a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution. IELTS- 6.5
The Master of Fine Arts program in art, with its emphasis on professional study, is designed for the mature individual who by previous training and study has sufficiently prepared for the undertaking. It is strongly suggested that applicants have a minimum of 12 credits of art history at the undergraduate level. Any qualified student holding a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution may seek admission. The School of Visual Arts requires a minimum of 3.00 junior/senior grade-point average (on a 4.00 scale) for admission to the master of fine arts program. Exceptions to the minimum 3.00 average may be made for students with special backgrounds, abilities, and interests, at the discretion of the program.
In addition to the previous requirements, all applicants must submit:
A portfolio of his/her work to illustrate his/her preparation for graduate study. A portfolio of digital images, rather than actual work, is required. A selection of no fewer than twenty examples should be presented. The majority should be in the area of the applicant's interest.
A statement of professional aims. This statement should include the applicant's intentions for his/her proposed study. Some indications of his/her philosophy, beliefs, and goals in regard to education and art should give evidence that he/she is prepared to undertake the work outlined for the Master of Fine Arts program.
Three letters of reference attesting to the applicant's scholarship and ability to work independently.
International applicants must take and submit scores for the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System), with the exceptions noted below. The minimum acceptable score for the TOEFL is 550 for the paper-based test, 213 for the computer-based test, or a total score of 80 with a 19 on the speaking section for the internet-based test. a bachelor's degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or
a postsecondary degree that is equivalent to a U.S. baccalaureate degree earned from an officially recognized degree-granting international institution. IELTS- 6.5
Tuition
USD
44,990