Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics)

Hours: 120 On-Campus

About

At Fort Hays State University, students in the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs receive comprehensive training that integrates artistic expression, technical craftsmanship, business principles, and materials science. This multidisciplinary approach provides a solid and practical foundation for sustained creative success.

These programs emphasize hands-on learning in all aspects of ceramics, including clay preparation, hand building, wheel throwing, firing techniques, and glaze development. Through this immersive experience, students cultivate their individual artistic voices by developing a cohesive body of work suitable for professional presentation.

In addition to studio practice, students gain real-world experience through active engagement with the local arts community and professional opportunities such as gallery exhibitions and studio management. These experiences help prepare graduates for successful careers as artists, educators, or creative professionals.

Why pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) at Fort Hays State University?

Students passionate about clay, sculpture, and the ceramic arts will find FHSU’s B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs to be uniquely comprehensive and forward-thinking. These programs provide in-depth instruction in traditional techniques such as hand building, slip casting, and wheel throwing, while also incorporating emerging technologies in ceramic materials and processes.

A strong emphasis on professionalism equips students with practical skills in areas such as product photography, marketing, exhibition design, and entrepreneurship. This well-rounded approach is further enhanced by connections to a broad and accomplished alumni network, creating valuable opportunities for internships, employment, and artistic collaboration after graduation.

Who is this program for?

The programs are ideal for creative individuals who are passionate about ceramic arts and aspire to build professional careers in creative industries. These programs offer a supportive and enriching environment for students who appreciate traditional ceramic methods while actively exploring contemporary techniques and innovations in the field.

Students seeking careers as professional ceramic artists
Individuals passionate about material science and ceramics techniques
Future art educators in K-12 or community education settings
Students interested in pursuing undergraduate study in fine arts
Those who wish to integrate artistic creation with community engagement

Learning Outcomes

The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs ensure that students graduate equipped with a comprehensive range of technical, conceptual, professional, and historical skills in the ceramic arts. The learning outcomes foster artistic development, personal growth, critical thinking, and practical application in real-world contexts.

Technical Mastery of Media

Students develop creative works that reflect a thorough and nuanced mastery of ceramic techniques. They engage deeply with hand building, wheel throwing, slip casting, glaze formulation, and kiln operation. Through the creation of diverse functional and sculptural pieces, students demonstrate proficiency with various firing methods, clay bodies, and surface treatments.

Development of Personal Artistic Identity

Students create cohesive bodies of work that reflect a clear and unified artistic vision alongside a distinct personal style. Through ongoing reflection and critique, they identify and refine their core conceptual interests, enabling their unique ideas to emerge with clarity. The programs emphasize the importance of clearly articulating artistic intent through the creation of professional portfolios and active participation in exhibitions.

Professional Communication and Public Engagement

The curriculum incorporates professional practice, enabling students to develop essential skills such as creating marketing materials, artist statements, resumes, and applications for exhibitions or graduate programs. Students also gain expertise in managing social media campaigns, submitting work to competitions, and handling tax preparation for artists, preparing them to engage audiences effectively both in person and online.

Critical Thinking in Art, Historical and Contemporary Contexts

Students develop a strong historical framework by comparing their work with that of both contemporary and historical artists. Through critical thinking exercises, written reflections, and presentations, they evaluate how their art relates to broader social, political, and aesthetic movements. This process helps students contextualize their practice within the wider field of ceramic arts.

Real-World Applications

Students acquire practical experience grounded in ceramics materials, community engagement, and business practices to prepare for professional careers. These programs emphasize essential skills such as marketing artwork, managing a business, and mastering product photography techniques.

Active involvement with the local creative community and real-world opportunities—such as participation in the Hays Arts Center, Salina Arts Center, and internships during winter break enables students to apply their classroom knowledge in professional settings.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs stay current with the latest advancements by blending traditional techniques with contemporary innovations in materials and processes. Students explore experimental approaches such as raw clay manipulation, slip dipping, body casting, and mold making, while also learning innovative methods like print on clay, which incorporates printmaking skills into ceramic art.

Field trips to major art fairs and urban art centers in cities like Denver, Kansas City, and Wichita offer students valuable exposure to current trends and professional opportunities in the ceramics field, ensuring they remain competitive after graduation.

Hands-on Activities

Hands-on experience is central to the B.A. and BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs. Students have opportunities to lead and organize exhibitions, participate in gallery walks, and actively engage with the vibrant local arts community. Through involvement in the Ceramica Clay Club, they develop leadership skills by coordinating professional artist workshops, managing travel arrangements, and planning industry events.

The programs also offer practical experience through partnerships such as the Speedball Art sponsorship and winter break internships. Additionally, students gain valuable professional exposure by presenting at conferences like the Kansas Clay Conference and NCECA, experiences that directly enhance their professional practice.

What You’ll Learn:

Develop strong ceramic techniques
Understand clay bodies and glazes
Build professional practice skills
Explore innovative and traditional firing techniques
Cultivate a personal artistic voice

How You’ll Learn:

Practice slip casting and wheel throwing
Engage with the community through exhibitions
Operate traditional and digital kiln technologies
Attend artist-led workshops and conferences
Create sculptural and functional clay artworks

Courses

The B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs begin with a core curriculum that includes Drawing I and II, 2D Design, 3D Design, and Survey of Art History I and II. These foundational courses provide essential skills in composition, design, and art historical analysis, establishing a strong base for advanced study. The curriculum emphasizes an understanding of artistic development from the Paleolithic era through contemporary art movements.

Specialized ceramics courses build on this foundation by deepening students’ knowledge of wheel throwing, hand building, slip casting, glaze chemistry, firing techniques, and clay bodies. Advanced coursework further prepares students for professional and academic careers by covering marketing, writing for artists, social media for creatives, and professional portfolio development, ensuring a smooth transition beyond undergraduate studies.

ART 260: Ceramics I

In this course, students will explore techniques and methods of ceramics.

ART 360: Ceramics II

Intensive study of ceramic form and technique.

ART 665: Problems: Ceramics I

This course offers students individual study for a major concentration in ceramics.

Discover the full Bachelor of Arts in Art (Studio Art) and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-equipped to pursue a wide range of rewarding careers both within and beyond the traditional arts sector. Alumni benefit from strong critical thinking abilities, advanced technical skills, and a high level of professionalism, all of which prepare them for successful futures.

Studio Artist

Studio artists create original ceramic works for exhibitions, sales, or commissions, showcasing their pieces in galleries, online shops, art fairs, and installations. Many supplement their income through workshops, community events, and collaborative projects to build sustainable careers.

Ceramics Educator

Ceramics educators teach in public and private schools, community centers, or private studios, working with students of all ages. They share their expertise in clay bodies, firing techniques, glaze application, and professional practices, inspiring and guiding the next generation of artists.

University Professor

With additional graduate study (typically an MFA), graduates can pursue careers in teaching and research at colleges and universities. University professors lead foundational and advanced ceramics courses, exhibit their own work, and contribute to scholarly and creative research, enriching the academic and artistic community.

Art Therapist

Graduates interested in the healing power of creativity can pursue advanced studies in counseling and art therapy. Ceramics-based art therapy uses hands-on clay work to support emotional well-being, providing meaningful therapeutic interventions in hospitals, schools, and community health settings.

Arts Center Administrator

Graduates with strong leadership and communication skills can pursue management roles in arts organizations and community centers. Administrators plan exhibitions, coordinate programs, manage budgets, and promote community engagement through the arts.

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a range of complementary programs for students seeking to broaden their skills and expand career opportunities beyond ceramics. Fields related to 3D art, technology integration, and visual storytelling align well with the competencies developed in the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) programs:

FAQ

How can students use the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) to start their creative careers?

Students learn to market, exhibit, and sell their works professionally, ensuring they are ready for careers as studio artists, educators, or administrators.

What steps are necessary to open a ceramics business or private studio?

Courses covering marketing, taxes, social media, and business practices prepare students for entrepreneurship and help them launch independent studios.

What options are available after earning the B.A./BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics) to continue education?

Graduates may pursue Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs to deepen their expertise and qualify for university teaching or advanced professional roles.

How do these programs prepare students for community engagement and public art?

Students engage in gallery walks, public exhibitions, and internships that connect artistic work with local communities and real-world audiences.

What kind of technical support and studio access do students have?

Students have 24/7 access to modern ceramics studios with cutting-edge equipment, which provides them the freedom to complete complex projects and experiment with materials.

What are the differences between the B.A. and the BFA in Art (Studio Art: Ceramics)?

The Bachelor of Arts degree offers a broader liberal arts education in ceramics. The Bachelor of Fine Arts provides an intensive studio art experience emphasizing portfolio development and technical mastery.

Information about the School of Visual and Performing Arts

At FHSU’s School of Visual and Performing Arts, creativity thrives in a supportive and passionate community. Our programs in Art, Design, Music, and Theatre offer students the opportunity to develop their talents and prepare for rewarding careers in the arts. Whether you aspire to create visual masterpieces, perform on stage, or educate the next generation, our expert faculty provides hands-on learning experiences that inspire and challenge you.

With access to state-of-the-art facilities and personalized mentorship, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your chosen field. From local exhibitions and major performances to internships and professional development opportunities, our programs equip you with the tools to make your mark in the world of visual and performing arts.

Student Organizations

While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.

American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA): Connect with industry professionals and fellow graphic design students, attend conferences, and expand your network.
Arts for Social Change: Use art as a catalyst for positive social change through lectures, workshops, and public events.
Ceramica Clay Club (CCC): Participate in ceramic workshops, art events, and interdisciplinary projects that spread art into the community.
FHSU Theater: Dive into acting, writing, and directing through performances and peer education programs.
Fe Sculpture Club: Explore metalworking and host art events both on campus and in the community.
Interior Design Student Organization (IDSA): Prepare for a career in interior design through networking, field trips, and professional development.
Creative Arts Society (CAS): Enhance diversity and culture through guest-artist lectures, workshops, and community art projects.
Collaborative Art Project (CAP): The Collaborative Art Project is a collaboration between Amy Schmierbach, professor of art at Fort Hays State University, students of FHSU, and Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas. Schmierbach and students are providing workshops to the DSNWK individuals to provide structured art experiences centered around weaving, drawing, and photography. The goal of this project is to expand the arts in the Hays community to help reach more individuals, specifically creating more opportunities in the arts.
Art Eaters Art History Club: The Art Eaters Art History Club is a community dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of art across cultures and throughout history. Open to all, regardless of expertise, the club provides opportunities for members to explore art movements, artists, and forms through lectures, gallery visits, workshops, and discussions. With a mission to inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of the arts, the club also connects members with key figures in the art world and helps develop valuable skills like curation. Through collaboration and dialogue, we cultivate a deeper understanding of art’s cultural significance.
Tiger Marching Band: This group is open to all students who enjoy marching band and want to be a part of the Tiger Marching Band tradition.
Pep Band: The FHSU pep band provides musical entertainment for FHSU Basketball games. Open to all students.
Collegiate National Association for Music Education (CNAfME): This student organization is dedicated to developing music education professionals, including workshops, training, field experiences, and annual participation in the Kansas Music Educators Association state conference in Wichita.
Student National Association of Teachers of Singing (S-NATS): Vocalists participate in workshops, trainings, and attendance at the regional NATS workshop and competition each fall.
Music Theatre: Participate in a fully-realized stage production produced each year, from a stage role to back-stage positions and technical support.

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