Ceramics
Associate in Arts Art · Butte College · 2026-2027 Catalog
About the Program
Program Goal: Local
GE Pattern(s): Butte Local
Program Code: 11128.00AA
The Ceramics program offers a solid foundation in the technical and aesthetic aspects of the medium. Students are taught the importance of minute details as well as overall excellence. Many specific skills are emphasized including handbuilding, wheel throwing, clay and glaze chemistry, mold making, kiln firings, and the specialized techniques of raku and primitive firings. Students have access to a fully equipped studio and have the opportunity to learn the operational requirements of the facility. Although ceramics as an art medium is emphasized, students also study the inter-relationship between industry, business and ceramics. The program offers a well-rounded art education including the ability to install exhibitions. A working portfolio for employment purposes is developed. The Ceramics Department offers courses which satisfy lower division requirements in many of the CSUs.
Many job opportunities exist for the individual proficient in ceramics. These include, but are not limited to: artist, art teacher or therapist, self-employed craft-person, mold maker, glaze technician, ceramic restorer, industrial ceramist, gallery or art shop manager, museum employee, interior design specialist, tile decorator, dental ceramist, and production designer. Students interested in pursuing a four-year degree are provided with a strong foundation for further coursework.
Program Learning Outcome(s): Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to:
- Employ technical skills, creativity, critical thinking, and conceptual problem solving in completing independent visual art projects in the medium of ceramics.
- Analyze, compare, and synthesize significant global ideas and primary original works of ceramic art from diverse cultures and time periods.
- Produce, present, and describe a portfolio consisting of original ceramic artworks.
- Demonstrate proficient and safe use of a variety of equipment, materials, and tools when creating works of ceramic art.
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required courses: | 26 | |
| ART 8 | Drawing I | 3 |
| ART 50 | Beginning Ceramics | 3 |
| ART 52 | Ceramics II | 3 |
| ART 54 | Ceramics III - Low Fire | 3 |
| ART 56 | Ceramics IV | 3 |
| ART 60 | Sculpture I | 3 |
| ART 70 | Gallery Production/Business of Art | 2 |
| Select one: | 3 | |
| ARTH C1100 | Survey of Art from Prehistory to the Medieval Era | 3 |
| ARTH C1200 | Survey of Art from the Renaissance to Contemporary | 3 |
| Select one: | 3 | |
| ART 7 | 2-D Foundations | 3 |
| ART 9 | 3-D Foundation | 3 |
| Total | 26 | |