CAP_Printmaking
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 Printmaking
• Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

Printmaking is the art of transferring images from an original matrix onto another surface. Coursework in the Printmaking program gives students a foundation in printmaking, including relief and intaglio methods, along with visual, color, and drawing fundamentals. Electives enable students to delve into specific techniques, from monotypes to photo-based prints, along with coursework specific to book arts.

Job Outlook

The origins of printmaking date to more than a thousand years ago, but the art form is hardly obsolete, with exciting new technologies such as laser cutting and 3D printing giving practitioners tools to innovate. Program graduates are prepared to pursue job opportunities at printing presses, art galleries, and museums as well as to exhibit their own work; they may also undertake further coursework in the studio arts or pursue training as arts educators or administrators. 

Potential Careers

Book Binders

$25,340 - $53,770

Printing Press Operators 

$25,690 - $59,090

Etchers & Engravers

$26,020 - $47,860

*Museum Currators
(may require additional training)

$38,590 - $101,990

 Fine Artists & Illustrators $39,820 - $176,460

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Printmaking - Associate in Arts (AA)
  • Printmaking - 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 rec.
   ARTB 4
 3
LIBR 50
 1
 ARTS 62A
 3
ARTB 2
 3
 ARTS 63A
 3
ARTS 10A
 3
 MPC Elective
 1
ARTS 60
 3
    PERS 10 rec.
  
       
Total Fall Year 1
15
 Total Spring Year 1
 14

Year 2  

Fall Units Spring Units
ARTS 9A, 61A-D, 62B, 63B
 3
 ARTS 9A, 61A-D, 62B, 63B,
 3
   63C, 64A, 64B, 66A, 66B, 69, 70,
      63C, 64A, 64B, 66A, 66B, 69, 70
  
   71, 74, 80, 81, 83, 84, or 85, or ARTH 8
      71, 74, 80, 81, 83, 84, 0r 85: or ARTH 8
  
Area B & Lab
 4
 Area D
 3
Area F
 3
    HIST 4 or 5 rec.
  
   ETNC 4 or 5 rec.
   MPC Elective
 3
MPC Elective
 3
    SPCH 1, 2, or 3 rec.
  
   ENGL 2 rec.
MPC Elective
 3
MPC Elective
 3
 MPC Elective
 3
       
Total Fall Year 2
 16
 Total Spring Year 2
 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 

Karen Cowdrey 

I have tried to take at least one studio art class per semester since 2017 to build my creative/artistic skills and allow for more confident exploration. I will continue using the resources at MPC in my personal artistic journey and can hardly wait for the thrill of “wow” moments when we share completed works with classmates.