The ceramics program encourages students to explore a variety of materials and techniques in developing their own artistic voice within the craft traditions of ceramics and pottery. The coursework at the various levels encompasses wheel thrown, hand-built and molding processes; clay and glaze materials; firing processes; history and design. The greatest instructional emphasis is on functional forms but includes decorative and sculptural expressions in clay as well. The curriculum focuses on command and appropriate choice of technique, an applied understanding of ceramic technology, and a general knowledge of ceramic art history.
The studio includes electric and kick wheels, extruders, a slab roller, three electric kilns, three gas reduction kilns, a raku kiln and a temporary wood-fired kiln. Beginning students fire their own bisque kilns while upper-level students mix their own clay and glazes, as well as load and fire kilns.