Ceramics

An introduction to a wide range of techniques for developing and realising ideas in Ceramics, with the chance to develop individual specialist interests in the final part of the course.

Why study Ceramics?

This course suits adventurous students who want to use Ceramics as part of a broad engagement with art.

As part of the Creative Arts programme this course offers students the opportunity to explore the possibilities of Ceramics as a medium alongside another subject. The interaction of Ceramics with the various other subjects within Creative Arts opens up possibilities for the subject to function in different ways.

You will choose one of the following subjects to study alonside Ceramics:

• Art
• Mixed Media Textiles
• Visual Design
• Creative Writing
• Dance
• Drama
• Music

Ratio of applications to places

No. of applicants - Creative Arts  (2011): 528

No. of places - Creative Arts (2011): 70

National student survey results

Satisfaction with teaching for courses in Creative Arts area (2011): 85%

Course structure

 In Year 1 you will have the opportunity to work in ceramics within a sculptural context, with opportunity to work across more than one discipline if appropriate. You will be introduced to hand-building alongside other construction techniques as well as methods of decorating, glazing and firing, underpinned by drawing and visual research. You will also have a series of lectures introducing you to relevant theoretical and contextual issues.

In Year 2 you will learn more advanced techniques in mould-making and printed surface through a series of short projects alongside students in mixed-media sculpture. As the year goes on you will be encouraged to develop a more individual and self-directed programme of study.

The final year gives you the opportunity to explore and realise your ideas through an in depth study of a chosen area, leading to an exhibition of a body of work and focussing on understanding your practice as an artist within the wider creative community.

Course assessment

Continuous assessment (100% course work)

The course is taught by practising artists and you’ll have access to excellent facilities for all methods of making, decorating, finishing and firing objects in Ceramics, with specialist technical support.

Teaching methods

There is an emphasis on gaining practical knowledge and skills through the experience of learning to make, alongside skills in developing ideas and evaluating results.

The course is taught through practical studio and workshop sessions as well as lectures and seminars. This development of both critical and creative skills enables you to find an individual approach by the end of the course as well as encouraging you to engage with a creative community within the School of Art and Design and beyond.

Application method

All applications are through UCAS.

Course enquiries

For more information please contact Martin Thomas on m.thomas2@bathspa.ac.uk

Entry requirements

260–300 UCAS Tariff points. Preferred subjects – from an Arts subject

Art Foundation course is also acceptable.

Offers may be based on portfolio of work (depending on subject choice).

Career opportunities

Many different careers are possible: establishing studios as exhibiting artists, working as freelance artists to commission, or teaching at all levels of education. Often some of these roles may be combined. Other graduates may go on to postgraduate study or employment with museums, galleries and ceramics companies.

Since 2011 graduates from this course have worked with organisations such as the Roman Baths in Bath, The Maze Studios in Brighton and "Big Brother , Little Brother" mainly as potters, ceramists and freelance designers.