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The ceramics program at UMass Amherst blends traditional pottery techniques with modern innovations in its curriculum.
Core courses like Hand Building, Throwing, and Advanced Throwing introduce diverse technical and artistic concepts, bridging historical and contemporary vessel creation methods.
Students at intermediate levels can choose from rotating offerings such as Figure Sculpture, Ceramic Tile, or Mold Making and Casting. These align with current 3D Studies initiatives, encouraging exploration of object creation, site-specific works, and environmental art practices.
Advanced ceramic studies involve intensive independent research and studio work. Through studio critiques and seminar discussions, faculty provide detailed evaluations of student projects. They also assist those pursuing practical experiences via internships and practicums, both on and off campus.
Every BFA candidate develops a senior thesis project culminating their final year, featuring a unified exhibition or screening, substantial written component, and oral presentation - all guided by faculty advisors. The program further supports students seeking hands-on learning opportunities through university and external internships.