The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Ceramics program emphasizes professional skills and achievements and fosters personal direction, diversity, technical proficiency and professional presentation. The Ceramics program offers a highly progressive curriculum that considers ceramics as a broad-based, interdisciplinary practice while providing a strong foundation in the history of the discipline and fostering technical mastery of the material. The individual direction of each student is further developed and focused through intensive time in the studio, group interaction across disciplines and periodic critical reviews. Diversity of working methods and aesthetic define the work that emerges from the Ceramics Department, work ranging from sculptural to functional, formal to conceptual, traditional to innovative is embraced. Sensitive handling of material, integrity of craftsmanship and depth of inquiry are the unifying characteristics of work made in the ceramics M.F.A. program. The program emphasizes individual tutorials, group seminars and critiques to provide a variety of settings for the development and exchange of ideas relevant to the arts in general and ceramics in particular. The curriculum addresses the broad range of perspectives found in contemporary ceramic art, from sculpture to vessel-reference work, to pottery. Historical and contemporary references are examined through two unique art history courses specific to the area of ceramic art. In the final two semesters of the graduate program, the student completes a creative project, usually in the form of a thesis exhibition, and writes a supporting thesis paper. A strong component of the graduate program involves assistantships in either studio work or in teaching undergraduate-level courses. Students are encouraged to teach a variety of courses during their studies, from 3D Design to wheel-throwing and hand-building skills. These experiences in conjunction with the acquisition of professional skills such as resume writing, job application skills and self-promotion prepare the student with the tools to be a professional artist once studies are complete. Students also gain the experience of organizing events and marketing through their involvement with the student organization, Student League of Independent Potters. The organization is responsible for managing a budget, participating in fundraising through two annual sales of work and coordinating two annual visiting artist workshops.