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Contact Information
Jamie Dagdigian (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4138
jdagdigian@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Studio Arts
• Connect with a Counselor

Program Overview

Artists not only create unique objects and experiences; they also contribute to a dialog with other creators, past and present. The Studio Arts program prepares students to do both, through courses that offer practical experience as well as theoretical and historical knowledge. Students learn to critically evaluate artwork in a wide variety of media as well as create it, demonstrating critical thinking and competency in visual language.

Job Outlook

Studio Arts program graduates are equipped to work in an array of creative careers. While some go on to create and sell their own work for a living, others pursue further studies in preparation for careers as architects, graphic designers, art therapists, or filmmakers. Jobs in museums as curators, administrators, and educators are all growing faster than average in California. Graduates may also choose to share their love of art as teachers.

Potential Careers

Docent & Museum Educators 

$24,660 - $50,070

*Photographers
(may require additional training)

$24,830 - $95,610

*Art Therapists
(may require additional training)

$33,550 - $118,090

*Graphic Designers
(may require additional training)

$34,060 - $99,510

*Painters, Sculptors, Illustrators
(may require additional training)

$39,820 - $176,460

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Studio Arts - Associate in Arts (AA)
  • Studio Arts - Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
  • Studio Arts - Certificate of Achievement (COA)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3

ENGL 2 

 3

MATH 10 or 16

 4

ARTB 3

 3

ARTB 2

 3

ARTS 10A

 3

Area 4 

 3

Major List B

 3

   US-1 rec

Area 4

 3

UC Elective

 1

   US-2 & 3 rec.
   LIBR 50 rec  

UC Elective

 1  
   PERS 10 rec.  

 

  
       
Total Fall Units
 15
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

Area 1C (CSU req. only)

 3

ARTH 4

 3

ARTH 3 or 8

 3

Major List B

 3

Major List B

 3

Area 4

 3

Area 3B

 3

   ANTH 4 or GWOS 4 rec.

   Hist 4, 5, 6, PHIL 2 or 8 rec.

Area 5B & 5C

 4

Area 5A 

 3

   ANAT 5 rec.
   GEOL 9 rec.

Area 6 (UC req. only)

2-5
        or UC Elective  
       
Total Fall Units
 15 Total Spring Units 15-18

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 that are knowledgeable in their area of expertise and able to make learning these skills and tools fun and engaging. As an artist, I had solo shows based on the knowledge and skills that I gained through courses at MPC.