Degree in Visual Arts - Fine Arts
Degree & Certificate Programs
Program Details
The Visual Arts program provides students with the basic technical and intellectual foundation necessary to pursue a career as either a fine artist or graphic designer.
The Department of Visual Arts, guided by a faculty of experienced professional artists, offers two options: Art and Graphic Design, and Fine Arts. In each option, students are expected to develop an individual aesthetic within their discipline. The Visual Arts program is dedicated to encouraging and nurturing the pursuit of independent interests and personal vision while preparing students for careers in the visual arts field.
Graduates of the Visual Arts program will demonstrate competency in:
- Basic technical skills in the visual formats of drawing, color, and design (Fine Arts and Graphic Design)
- Basic technical skills in computer generated formats (Graphic Design)
- Basic technical skills in elective subjects such as painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, photography and/or graphic design (for transfer as a junior to a baccalaureate degree program)
The Fine Arts Option provides the study of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media with tracks in painting, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture. This option allows for a dedicated route in Fine Arts and offers elective courses in graphic design and photography.
Graduates earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree.
Program Outcomes
To prepare fine arts & graphic design students for entry-level positions in graphic design and/or advanced study beyond the Associates Degree by:
- Providing faculty who are experienced professionals dedicated to meeting the needs of community college students by creating a supportive environment necessary for learning visual communication.
- Providing lecture based and didactic instruction in art history and core curriculum studies.
- Providing studio instruction in drawing, color and design, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, photography and graphic design.
- Providing computer laboratory instruction in graphic design, animation and web site design.
- Providing individual and group critiques to discuss specific solutions to visual problems.
- Providing student outcomes that demonstrate an understanding of the vocabulary of artistic and creative expression and competency in the technical skills necessary to express an artistic vision.
Academic Map
Degree in Visual Arts - Fine Arts
A minimum of 20 classes and 60 credits is required. At least 15 credits of your program must be taken at Massasoit. Note: Each course completed and passed can only fulfill one program requirement. The same course cannot be used to satisfy multiple program requirements.
Semester 1
3 Credits in ARTG 107
Drawing I
3 Credits in ARTG 113
Color and Design I
3 Credits in ARTG 263
Sculpture I
3 Credits in Art elective
3 Credits in ENGL 101
English Composition I
Semester 2
3 Credits in ARTG 108
Drawing II
3 Credits in ARTG 114
Color and Design II
3 Credits in ARTG 221
Painting I
3 Credits in Printmaking elective
3 Credits in ENGL 102
English Composition II
Semester 3
3 Credits in ARTG 101
History of Art I
3 Credits in ARTG 205
Three-Dimensional Design
3 Credits in Art electives
3 Credits in either PSYC 101 or SOCI 104
(General Psychology or Principles of Sociology)
3 Credits in Math elective - Contemporary Math or higher
Semester 4
3 Credits in ARTG 102
History of Art II-High Renaissance to Present
3 Credits in Art electives
3 Credits in Art electives
3 Credits in Science elective
3 Credits in Liberal Arts elective
This academic map is a suggested semester-by-semester guide to keep you on a clear path to program completion. Please note that some classes are offered only in certain semesters, have prerequisites, or minimum passing grades. Winter and/or Summer Session classes may be available for some classes. Your academic advisor will provide you with clear direction needed to stay on course and discuss scheduling options with you. Taking courses not reflected on this map may result in courses not counting toward the completion of your requirements.
Advisory Committee
This committee brings together artists, educators, gallery professionals, and community arts advocates who collaborate to ensure the program remains vibrant, relevant, and responsive to the evolving landscape of the visual arts. By offering insight into artistic trends, exhibition opportunities, and professional practices, the committee plays a key role in shaping a curriculum that nurtures creativity, technical skill, and critical thinking. Together, we are committed to supporting student growth and fostering a strong connection between academic study and the broader arts community.
- Ellyn Moller
Director
Milton Art Museum - Amy Montague
Director
Audubon Visual Arts Center