Ceramics

Overview

Material, process and form. Transforming earth into expression.

Ceramics connects tradition with innovation through tactile exploration, technical skill and conceptual development. In our program, you’ll join a dynamic community of artists working across hand-built, wheel-thrown and sculptural forms—supported by a strong culture of exchange, experimentation and collaboration.

We offer a rigorous studio environment grounded in material knowledge and aesthetic inquiry. You’ll be encouraged to work across disciplines, push your ideas and find new meaning through one of the oldest—and most versatile—mediums in art.

Undergraduate degrees

As an undergraduate ceramics student, you’ll build a solid foundation in both traditional techniques and contemporary approaches to clay. You’ll explore forming processes like hand-building, wheel-throwing and mold-making alongside concept development, design and surface aesthetics.

The curriculum includes:

Technical processes (electric, gas, wood, raku and vapor firing)
Two- and three-dimensional design in vessel and sculptural forms
Historical and contemporary ceramics, artists and ideas

You’ll also gain real-world experience through H.O.T. Clay (Handbuilt Or Thrown), our student organization that hosts exhibitions, visiting artists and an annual ceramic sale.

Graduate Degrees

As a graduate student in ceramics, you’ll pursue focused, personal investigations in form, process and meaning. Our program supports deep exploration through individual studio practice, critique and active engagement with contemporary issues in the field.

You’ll meet weekly for critical dialogue and topical seminars and work closely with all ceramics faculty through rotating tutorials. This shared-learning model helps you build a voice not only in your own work—but within a broader conversation about art-making today.