The Master of Arts in Art: Painting and Drawing concentration
In this program, you will build on what you mastered in your undergraduate degree program, refining your technical and aesthetic abilities through guided independent study. The Master’s in Painting and Drawing is geared toward students looking to expand their portfolio at the graduate level, and to further their studio practice in an academic environment. Small class sizes provide for one-on-one relationships with faculty and cohort members.
You can tap into Pittsburgh’s thriving arts scene to facilitate your professional growth and enjoy course visits with industry professionals such as curators, art dealers and artists.
Credits required:
30 credits
Cost per credit:
$957/credit
Time to degree:
As few as 4 semesters
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Master’s in Painting and Drawing curriculum
The curriculum includes six consecutive studio-based seminar courses, an elective in a different medium such as clay or digital art, an art history or contemporary art research study tailored to your studio art practice, and a thesis and graduate exhibition. In optional 1-credit courses, you can learn about professional practice for creative freelancers and develop a project around a field trip to New York City. Full-semester and accelerated options are available.
The graduate program focuses heavily on concept, and you will be encouraged to experiment with multimedia processes and collaborate with peers.
Quick facts
- Tailor your learning experience to your academic and professional interests with one-on-one guidance
- Take evening classes for schedule flexibility
- Connect with faculty and cohort members with small class sizes
- Gain gallery experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Alternate degree completion options
Accelerated
Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Painting and Drawing
With a master’s in Painting and Drawing, career options include instructor or professor, illustrator or animator, and arts administrator.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for multimedia artists and animators is slated to grow 4% over the next 10 years, largely driven by the demand from movies, video games and television.
Admission requirements and application process
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
- Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
- Representative portfolio of your work
- Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
- Current resume or curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.
Painting & Drawing faculty
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
The Master of Arts in Art: Ceramics concentration
You can develop your technical and aesthetic abilities in ceramics while adapting your learning experience to suit your research interest with a master’s in Ceramics. The master’s in Art program is geared toward graduate-level students interested in expanding their portfolio in an academic setting and practicing K-12 teachers. Small class sizes provide for one-on-one relationships with faculty and cohort members. The program emphasizes the pursuit of creativity while also fine-tuning career preparedness.
Credits required:
30 credits
Cost per credit:
$957/credit
Time to degree:
As few as 4 semesters
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Master’s in ceramics curriculum
You will use current and historical theory research to develop a thesis, and combine it with studio practice to develop your MA exhibition for critique by faculty. Advanced studio work in Carlow’s 3D studio space focuses on high-impact practice.
Quick facts
- Increase your studio practice in a structured environment
- Further your education with advanced studio projects
- Enjoy specialized attention in small classes
- Gain gallery experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Alternate degree completion option
Accelerated
Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for MA in Art: Ceramics
Job opportunities exist in a variety of areas, including colleges, universities and professional schools and public relations; the degree also is valuable for independent artists.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth is slated to change little for fine artists over the next 10 years.
Admission requirements and application process
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
- Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
- Representative portfolio of your work
- Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
- Current resume or curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.
Ceramics faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Find your Art & Design degree at Carlow
You can develop your artistic skill in the studio or lab with one of our on-campus art and design degrees. During your undergraduate or graduate studies you can pursue the art and design track of your choice while developing your 2D or 3D skills. You will graduate with a professional portfolio of work.
Program Name
Offered
Degree Earned
Cultivate the artist in you and nurture your aesthetic spirit
Mastery of the elements of form is essential to becoming a great artist. With a Bachelor of Arts in Painting and Drawing from Carlow University, you will cultivate a solid foundation in technique, form and concept.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Painting and drawing major curriculum
You will spend six semesters studying painting in depth, and will examine more advanced issues centered around two-dimensional art and concept development through still life and landscape, figure, street art and illustration.
As you advance in the major, you will be able to participate in a mentorship program and focus your educational experience on your personal interests. On-campus instruction includes access to the 2D studio.
Quick Facts
- Tailor advanced classes to your interests
- Be mentored by instructors
- Put your skills to work in our art studios
- Gain professional experience at our on-campus art gallery
Alternate degree completion option
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Painting and Drawing
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, from 2019 to 2029, employment for multimedia artists and animators will grow 4%, largely fueled by demand from the movie, television and video game industries.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Painting & Drawing faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Earn your Media Arts and Animation degree
Passionate about art? Use your drive and polish your skills with an animation major from Carlow University. You will learn the essential skills to work with new media technologies, including animation software and digital storytelling.
Working with faculty who have field experience, you will master advanced principles of 2D and 3D computer animation and become proficient in animation software. You can supplement your education with creative classes like creative writing and gestural studies.
With a program adapted to your own academic interests, you can dive head first into experimental animation, conveying your ideas with mixed media and different approaches to digital technology.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 Credits
Media Arts major curriculum
You will gain a professional edge by working with industry-standard animation software, including Adobe Creative Suite, ZBrush and Toon Boom. Media arts and animation includes graphic design work with digital photography and digital illustration in the 2D and 3D studios and the animation lab.
You will develop and refine a digital portfolio under the guidance of faculty who will help ensure your portfolio demonstrates your unique media arts and animation style. The portfolio will prepare you for entry-level employment in the field.
Required media arts and animation coursework will teach you how to successfully manage your own freelance business. The Creative Freelancer, a required course, involves professional practice and teaches creatives how to market themselves.
Quick facts
- Become proficient in essential software such as Adobe Creative Suite and ZBrush
- Develop and refine a media arts and animation portfolio
- Access facilities like the 2D and 3D studios
- Learn how to successfully manage your own freelance business
- Gain professional experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Career opportunities for media arts and animation
Students have gone on to work for ad agencies, public relations firms and school districts, and to study in graduate programs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, from 2019 to 2029, employment for multimedia artists and animators will grow 4%, largely fueled by the demand from the movie, television and video game industries.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Expand your skill set
Art major James Balsimo ’22 said Carlow’s Media Arts and Animation program gave him the freedom to express himself. Additionally, “I learned the global history of animation as well as the necessary components to navigate the modern animation industry. The program also covers other important aspects such as graphic design and digital illustration that have expanded my skill set.”
Media Arts & Animation faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
The exciting world of advertising, marketing and media awaits you
Gain a competitive edge with a graphic design degree from Carlow University. You’ll develop a mastery of visual concepts and sought-after professional skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving to lay a foundation for success in the field.
Graphic design students work with industry-experienced faculty and industry-standard design software.
You can adapt your graphic design learning experience to suit your personal interests. If you’re planning a career as a freelancer, classes will help you master the skills needed to be successful.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Graphic design degree curriculum
You will learn best business practices and get hands-on experience with such software as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and After Effects in 2D and 3D studio spaces such as the Media Arts and Design Studio. In advanced-level classes, you will adapt your learning experience to your interests. At this stage, a mentorship program is available.
As part of your graphic designer education, you will develop and refine a portfolio and create an online presence on social media. Instructors will provide one-on-one guidance to help you demonstrate your unique skills and style.
Many graphic design students complete professional internships and independent design projects.
Quick facts
- Work with industry-standard design software
- Develop and refine a portfolio
- Tailor advanced classes to your interests
- Intern with a company or work on independent design projects
- Gain professional experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Alternate degree completion option
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Graphic Design
With a graphic design degree, you can pursue a career in such fields as advertising, marketing and communications, and specialized design services. Students have landed jobs with art guilds and county offices, or have become exhibiting artists.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, employment for graphic designers is expected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029. Though this growth is about average, those in the field should keep an eye out for competition in their job search.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Graphic Design faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Minor in Ceramics
You can work with your hands and master the essentials of two-dimensional art and sculpture, supplementing your art education with a minor in Ceramics from Carlow University. You will gain a well-rounded perspective on creativity in ceramics and refine your technical skills by working in the university’s art studio spaces, including three semesters in the Advanced Ceramics Studio working with different materials, techniques and kilns.
Ceramics curriculum
A minimum of 18 credits is required, 9 of which must be taken at Carlow.
Required courses include:
- Basic Art and Design
- Sculpture
- Ceramics
Shape your future with a ceramics major
With a Ceramics major, you will learn techniques of two-dimensional art, ceramics and sculpture. The major will prepare you for a studio career or graduate school.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Ceramics degree curriculum
The ceramics degree curriculum allows you to learn high-level skills and develop your artistic voice, focusing on your area of interest in ceramics. In addition to learning ceramic skills such as wheel throwing, handbuilding, glazing and firing, you will study drawing, art history and design, giving you a well-rounded foundation.
Quick facts
- Learn 2D and 3D art fundamentals
- Be prepared for studio practice or a master’s degree
- Gain professional experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Alternate degree completion options
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Ceramics
Graduates with a ceramics degree have been successful in studio practice and gaining admission to master’s programs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, job growth is slated to change little for craft and fine artists from 2019 to 2029. Though an uptick in arts positions and opportunities is largely based on economic factors, many ceramics artists start their own small businesses.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admissions.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Ceramics faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
Minor in Art History
You can explore your interest in humanity’s creative history with a minor in Art History from Carlow University. In this program, you will gain an entry-level understanding of the elements of art and design, as well as an overview of Western art history.
You will create art while becoming acquainted with both the theory and practice of art and understanding art in context, learn how to critically engage with artwork and further develop your appreciation of art.
Art history curriculum
A minimum of 18 credits is required, 9 of which must be taken at Carlow.
Required courses inlcude:
- Introduction to Art/Visual Culture I and 2
- Women and Art
- 3 additional art history courses
Become a museum curator, archivist or art historian
You can use your passion for art and social justice and engage with big ideas with an Art History degree from Carlow University. The bachelor’s in Art History is grounded in the study of contemporary art and critical theory, focusing on the cultural and visual dimensions of social justice, as well as curatorial and museum studies.
You will cultivate skills in visual literacy, critical thinking and writing, explore curating as a form of activism, and learn about undergraduate research and exhibition development.
You will learn professional skills needed to work in museums, galleries and cultural organizations as well as broader fields such as education, law and nonprofit management. You will also be prepared to pursue a graduate degree in art history, museum studies, and conservation and preservation.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery:
On campus, some online
Campus:
Oakland
Transfer credits:
Up to 90 credits
Art history degree curriculum
You will be introduced to the study of visual culture, and cultivate skills in creative problem solving and problem seeking, critical thinking and exhibition making. You will take courses in art history and museum studies, as well as studio and design courses, and complete practicums and internships. Mentorship-model courses are tailored to your interests and post-graduate goals.
You can complete an internship with the Carlow University Art Gallery, working with professional artists, curators and museum professionals; curating exhibitions; developing and leading tours; serving as an attendant; assisting with collection management and artwork inventories; or researching and developing digital curation strategies.
You can engage with contemporary artists and organizations and rich local collections of public art through Pittsburgh’s vibrant art scene and cultural institutions.
Quick facts
- Gain professional experience at the Carlow University Art Gallery
- Explore Pittsburgh’s vibrant art scene and cultural landmarks as part of your education
Alternate degree completion option
Accelerated
Fast track your way to a master’s by taking graduate courses as an undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.
Career opportunities for Art History
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for archivists, curators and museum workers is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029, faster than most other occupations. This growth is attributed to archival information storage needs as well as increased public interest in science, art and history.
Admission requirements and application process
- Submit an application for admission. It is free to apply.
- Request that official transcripts from all current and previous institutions you’ve attended are sent directly to the Carlow University Office of Admission.
Apply
anytime
Start terms:
Fall, Spring & Summer
Art History faculty
Amy Bowman-McElhone, PhD Chair, Program Director, Assistant Professor, Art
Kimberly McMahon, MA Adjunct Lecturer
Contact Admissions
If you are interested in this major, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.
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