Courses – BFA Curriculum
The Department of Craft and Material Studies offers a professionally oriented program that leads to a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Craft and Material Studies with majors in ceramics, fiberwork/fabric design, glassworking, metalsmithing/jewelry or woodworking/furniture design. Within these areas of specialization, courses are designed to assist students in developing concepts, personal direction, and the necessary skills and technical competencies to enable them to pursue a professional career or graduate study. In addition to the major area of study, students have the opportunity for a diverse education in the liberal arts and humanities. Students are encouraged to select courses in other schools on the Monroe Park Campus that will add to their general knowledge. A student may elect a minor area of study in any department or program offering a minor. The minor can be used to fulfill career objectives or to investigate a discipline of secondary interest.
Career opportunities for craft majors include setting up an independent studio or gallery, restoration or repair work, teaching or participating in the Artist-in-Residence programs in the public schools, and consulting and designing for industry.
Please refer to the VCU Course Bulletin for more information
BFA Requirements
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Craft and Material Studies requires a minimum of 123 credits, including 47 in the major. A minimum of 45 of the 123 credits must be 300- and/or 400-level courses. To enroll in an advanced-level craft course, majors must have earned a “C” or better in all courses prerequisite for that course.
* In accordance with the school’s general education requirements, a student who scores at least 550 on the mathematics portion of the SATs or has earned a “B” or higher grade in high school algebra II or geometry is exempted from the mathematics requirement. Students who meet this requirement will select an elective to fulfill three credits.
Sample Curriculum:
Major Requirements
Foundation Program - 14 credits
Basic Craft - 16 credits
Orientation to Craft - 1 credit
Advanced Craft - 28 credits
Painting/Printmaking or Sculpture Studio - 8 credits
Senior Seminar - 2 credits
General Studies
English 101, 200 - 6 credits
Literature - 6 credits
Art History and Theory - 15 credits
Approved electives to include three credits in a social science, three in mathematics,
and four in a laboratory science - 13 credits
Open Electives - 14 credits
Total: 123 credits