Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Ceramics

INCLUSIVE PROGRAM


GEA University of San Marco – Florida

Online Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Ceramics

Inclusive Program for Students with Mental Disabilities


Program Vision

To cultivate expressive, therapeutic, and professional ceramic artistry in students with mental disabilities through an inclusive online learning environment, while promoting independence, community, and artistic excellence.

📌 Program Highlights

  • 100% online (kits to pay apart)
  • Adaptive curriculum with mental health supports
  • Faculty trained in inclusive and trauma-informed teaching
  • Virtual demonstrations and guided projects
  • Local studio partnerships for optional in-person practice
  • Individual learning plans and flexible pacing

🕒 Program Duration, Credits & Format

  • Length: 4 Years (Full-Time or Part-Time Options)
  • Credits: 120 Credit Hours
  • Format: Synchronous & Asynchronous Online Learning


🎓 Curriculum Breakdown

Year 1 – Foundations in Art & Clay

  • Introduction to Drawing & Visual Thinking
  • History of Ceramics (Global & Adaptive)
  • Ceramics I: Hand-building & Pinch Methods
  • Creative Thinking and Mindfulness in Art
  • General Education: English & Visual Math

Year 2 – Technical Growth

  • Ceramics II: Slab & Coil Techniques
  • Introduction to Wheel-Throwing (Virtual Demos & Optional Studio Visits)
  • Surface Decoration and Glaze Theory
  • Introduction to Digital Design for Ceramics (AR/VR models)
  • Life Skills for Artists with Disabilities

Year 3 – Voice & Community

  • Ceramics III: Functional & Sculptural Forms
  • Community Ceramics Project (Virtual Mural or Collaborative Pieces)
  • Accessible Arts Marketing
  • Internship Prep & Mentorship
  • Career Paths in the Ceramic Arts
  • Adaptive Art Criticism & Presentation

Year 4 – Capstone & Professional Development

  • Ceramics IV: Advanced Studio Practice
  • Capstone Project: Thematic Ceramic Series & Online Exhibition
  • Internship or Supported Apprenticeship
  • Grant Writing (study a list of Grants for Artists and how to apply) & Artist Residencies (Optional)
  • Inclusive Business Practices & E-commerce

💡 Inclusive Learning Supports

  • Weekly coaching and check-ins
  • On-demand teletherapy access (to pay apart)
  • Simplified and multimodal lessons (audio, visual)
  • Captioned video tutorials and screen-reader friendly modules
  • Sensory accommodations and self-paced assignments
  • Optional guardian academic coordination

  📥 Admission Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED or equivalent (accommodations considered)
  • Personal Expression Submission (written, visual, or recorded)
  • Portfolio of 5–10 creative works (can include craft, clay, or sculpture)
  • Optional: IEP, 504 Plan, or disability documentation
  • Interview with Inclusive Arts Coordinator

🛠 Technology, Materials  & Studio Access

  • GEA TV to see the video Lessons
  • Studio kits to buy apart (clay, tools, glazes, safety materials) 
  • Optional partnerships with local ceramic studios for glazing/firing

Career Pathways

  • Ceramic Artist or Studio Potter
  • Teaching Artist for Community Programs
  • Functional Pottery Seller (Etsy, Local Fairs)
  • Ceramic Technician or Assistant
  • Art Therapy Assistant
  • Ceramics Content Creator / Instructor

Contact & Application