Visual and Material Studies & Post-Baccalaureate Seminars
In addition to intensive studio coursework, seminars are a crucial component of the Post-Baccalaureate experience.
Readings, class discussions, field trips and dialogue with visiting artists focus on current issues in contemporary art and examine how each student's artwork and professional aims fit into that historical context.
Post-Baccalaureate Seminar
The Seminar is a mandatory core component of the post-baccalaureate curriculum during both fall and spring semesters. The Seminar includes professional presentations, student presentations, directed group discussions and writing projects, critiques of work, and visits to museums, galleries, collections, and other sites.
In the Seminar, you'll cultivate professional skills while surveying the landscape of contemporary practice. Through presentations by visiting artists, faculty, and fellow students, you'll explore professional options, hone presentation skills, and clarify direction. You'll engage in grant writing, residency applications, and curatorial opportunities, while building a professional network with gallerists and working artists. In addition, our faculty provide a weekly studio visit during which you'll receive feedback and support for your developing studio practice.
Visual and Material Studies (Art History)
All Post-Baccalaureate students take one 3 credit course in Art History, either in the spring or the fall semester, offered on the SMFA campus through our Visual and Material Studies department.
Sample Course of Study*
The one-year Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program consists of two full-time semesters of studio courses, two Post-Baccalaureate Seminars, plus one Visual and Material Studies course.
Fall Semester | |
Studio Art, including the Post-Baccalaureate Seminar, plus one course in Visual and Material Studies | 17 credits |
Spring Semester | |
Studio Art, including the Post-Baccalaureate Seminar | 14 credits |
*Visual and Material Studies may be taken in Fall or Spring