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Career & Academic Pathways >> Visual & Performing Arts
Contact Information
Diane Eisenbach (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4220
deisenbach@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
•  Download our Info Sheet
•  Visit MPC Ceramics & Glass 
•  Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

Three-dimensional art – whether thrown on a wheel, shaped in a kiln, or sculpted by hand – is the focus of the Ceramics and Glass program. Students gain hands-on experience while building a conceptual understanding of art and learning the knowledge and skills required for employment, entry into professional studio practice, and becoming a successful artist in the community.

Job Outlook

There are more than 300 clay and glass artists in the state, and the profession is set to grow at a rate of 8% through 2028. Graduates in this field can work as gallery assistants, curators, directors, or studio artists, or join the growing number of independent artists in community studios. They may also undertake further training to pursue careers in industrial design and teaching. And with adoption of 3D, augmented reality, and virtual reality on the rise, the need is growing for artists with the skills to translate physical objects into the digital realm.

Potential Careers

Gallery Assistants

$23,966 - $45,741

*Ceramicists & Glass Blowers
(may require additional training)

$24,770 - $77,270

*Museum Techs & Conservators
(may require additional training)

$27, 940 - $75,010

*3D Artists/Technical Illustrators
(may require additional training)

$52,179 - $98,603

*High School Art Teachers
(may require additional training)

$56,560 - $115,360

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Ceramics and Art - Associate in Arts (AA)


Suggested Course Sequence (AA)

Year 1

FALL
UNITS
SPRING UNITS

ENGL 1A 

3 Area A2 4

MPC Elective

2

 MATH 10 or 16 rec.  


   ENGL 101A rec.

 

ARCE 3A

3

LIBR 50

1

ARCE 7

3

ARCE 1A or 2A

3

ARCE Elective

3
Area F 3

   ARCE 1A or 2A rec.


   ETNC 4 or 5 rec.

MPC Electives

 MPC Electives 1    ENGL 2 rec.
    PERS 10 rec.  
 
       
Total Fall Units
13
Total Spring Units
16

Year 2

FALL
UNITS
SPRING UNITS

ARCE 4A

3

ARCE 1B-1D, 2B-2D, 3B-3D

3

ARCE 11

3

   4B-4D, 5, 6, 8, or 9


ARCE 1B-1D, 2B-2D, 3B-3D

3

ARCE 1B-1D, 2B-2D, 3B-3D

3

   4B-4D, 5, 6, 8, or 9

     4B-4D, 5, 6, 8, or 9

Area B & Lab

4

Area D

3
 CHEM 10 or PHYS 10 rec.
   POLS 1, 10, 26, or 18 rec.
 Area E2 3  MPC Electives 3
   ARTS 10A, 12A, 40A, 41A,
    SPCH 1, 2, or 3 rec.   
   60, or 62A rec.
 MPC Elective 3
       
Total Fall Units
16 Total Spring Units 15

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 


Testimonials 

Quotation Mark

Vanessa Cowdrey

Prior to taking ceramics classes at MPC, I had not previously worked with clay. After a semester of taking introductory hand building and wheel-throwing, I was hooked and quickly sought a permanent position doing what I loved. Currently, I work at MPC as the Ceramic Studio Specialist where I manage the studio, kilns, and student work. This summer I start an MFA program in ceramics & printmaking and I would have never had the opportunity to explore this new creative path had it not been for the Creative Arts program at MPC.