Visual Art
Create, Explore and Express Through Visual Art
Whether you're looking to expand your creative abilities or complement another major with artistic training, PennWest University's Visual Art Certificate offers hands-on experiences across a variety of visual art disciplines. Through studio courses, art history and experiential learning, you'll build technical skills while exploring the history, theory and practice of visual art. The program emphasizes learning by doing, helping you develop confidence in visual design, graphic design and a range of artistic media.
This program is for you if...
- You want to explore studio art while pursuing another major.
- You're interested in drawing, design or other visual art media.
- You enjoy hands-on, project-based learning.
- You desire to strengthen your creative and visual communication skills.
- You're intrigued by art history alongside studio practice.
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XX Credits for AA
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XX Credits for BS
What You'll Study
You'll begin by building a foundation in studio art through courses such as drawing, 2D design, 3D design or digital art foundations. From there, you'll deepen your understanding of visual culture through art history while choosing studio electives in areas such as ceramics, printmaking, typography, sculpture, painting, jewelry and metals, visual communication or surface design. Throughout the program, you'll learn to analyze and critique artwork, apply artistic techniques across multiple media and complete a capstone portfolio or exhibition that showcases your creative growth.
| Degrees, Certificates, Minors | Offered at... | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Clarion | Edinboro | Global Online | |
| Visual Art, Certificate | Program Offered At This LocationBlended | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location | Program Not Offered At This Location |
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
How You'll Learn
Complete the certificate through blended coursework at PennWest's California campus. Studio classes emphasize experiential learning through creative projects, critical reflection, critiques and portfolio development, giving you opportunities to apply artistic concepts while working in a variety of media.
What You'll Become
You'll graduate with a portfolio demonstrating your creative and technical abilities across multiple artistic disciplines. Whether you apply these skills in your current profession, pursue additional study or continue creating as an artist, the certificate strengthens your understanding of visual communication, design and studio practice.
Career Paths
- Studio art
- Graphic design
- Fine arts
- Arts administration
- Museum and gallery support
- Creative services
- Illustration
- Visual communications
- Community arts
- Arts education support
'Double Take' opens at Manderino Library
PennWest University invites students, employees and community members to explore Double Take: A Closer Look at Contemporary Art, an exhibition drawn from the permanent collection of PennWest Edinboro’s Bruce Gallery and curated by Master of Fine Arts (MFA) students.
How We'll Help You Succeed
At PennWest University, we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
18 Credits
Build a portfolio through hands-on studio art and art history coursework.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.