CAP_Painting
Career & Academic Pathways >> Visual & Performing Arts
Contact Information
Jamie Dagdigian (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4138
jdagdigian@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Painting
• Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

The study of painting provides an opportunity for artists to connect to others and develop their own expressive voice using a range of traditional and alternative materials. Core classes include painting, two-dimensional design and drawing and composition, while electives range from watercolors to creative digital media. The program is committed to training in a variety of painting techniques and expressive means. Graduates will be prepared to pursue further study and careers in studio arts.

Job Outlook

The Monterey peninsula and the San Francisco Bay Area are home to myriad galleries and fine arts institutions, giving Painting graduates opportunities to both exhibit their work and pursue supporting roles as restorationists, curators, and administrative staff. Painters can also apply their knowledge of color and materials to interior design, work as muralists on large-scale building commissions, or go digital in graphic arts roles.

Potential Careers

Gallery Assistants

$23,966 - $45,741

Painters

$39,820 - $176,460

*Graphic Designers
(may require additional training)

$34,070 – $99,510

*Art Directors
(may require additional training)

$64,100 - $208,000+

*K-12 Art Teachers
(may require additional training)

$53,399 - $107,760

 

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Painting - Associate in Arts (AA) 
  • Painting - Certificate of Achievement (COA) 

Suggested Course Sequence (AA)

Year 1

 Fall  Units  Spring  Units
ENGL 1A
3 Area A2
 4
MPC Elective
 2    Math 10 rec.
  
   ENGL 101A
   ARTB 4
 3
LIBR 50
 1
 ARTS 40B
 3
ARTB 2
3
 MPC Elective
 3
ARTS 10A
3
     ENGL 2 rec.
ARTS 40A
 3
MPC Elective
 1
       PERS 10 rec.
     
  
       
Fall Year 1 Total
 15
Spring Year 1 Total
 14

Year 2  

 Fall Units  Spring  Units
ARTH 4, ARTH 14, ARTS 9A,
 3
 Take 2 from the following:
 6
   16, 30A, 30B, 31, 32
      ARTH 4, ARTH 14, ARTS 9A,
  
   41A-C, 42, 51, or 54
     16, 30A, 30B, 31, 32
  
Area B & Lab
 4
    41A-C, 42, 51, or 54
  
Area F
 3
 Area D
3
   ETNC 4 or 5 rec.
      HIST 4 or 5 rec.
  
MPC Elective
 3
MPC Elective
 3
   ARTS 40C rec.
      ARTS 40D rec.
  
MPC Elective
 3
 MPC Elective
 3
   SPCH 1, 2, or 3
      
       
Fall Year 2 Total
 16
Spring Year 2 Total
 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 

Rachell Hester

I was able to explore various art processes through excellent studio arts, graphic arts, and technology courses taught by faculty who are knowledgeable in their area of expertise and who make learning these skills and tools fun and engaging. As an artist, I had solo art shows based on the knowledge and skills that I gained through courses at MPC.