Blending tradition + technology
in contemporary ceramics.
Ceramics is an area of exploration within the Visual
Arts Major. Blending art and design with form and function, ceramics intersects with multiple creative disciplines, offering expansive possibilities in a dynamic and evolving field.
What You’ll Learn
Take studio courses covering wheel throwing, hand building and
mold making. Explore digital applications like 3D printing, merging classical methods with innovative technology.
The curriculum centers on ceramics while encouraging experimentation across related art forms, including sculpture and design, offering a clear understanding of ceramics’ role in both contemporary art and design worlds.
Program Highlights
- Explore ceramics in combination with contemporary art practices
- Build technical skills and material knowledge through studio-based learning
- Work in studios with traditional tools and modern digital technologies
- Learn from practicing artists renowned in the ceramics field
- Participate in exhibitions and projects that prepare you for a career in the arts creative industries.
Program Structure
Ceramics is a discipline within the Visual Arts Major. In your first year, you’ll complete the Foundation Year alongside all other majors.
Starting in second year, you can tailor your studies by choosing from a range of Ceramic courses that match your interests and goals.
Sample Ceramics Courses
CRAM 206: Ceramics Sculpture CRAM 207: Ceramic Design CRAM 223: Surface Design CRAM 324: From the Ground to the Table CRAM 314: Architectural Ceramics CRAM 308: Large Vessels and SculptureShops + Studios
Studio culture is at the heart of your educational experience at Emily Carr University, with spaces where you can create, learn, collaborate, experiment, and play.
Ceramics students work in spacious, well-equipped shops and studios.
Ceramics students have access to:
- Ceramics Studio
- Metal Shop
- Scanning labs
- Photography Studio
- and more
Expert Technical Staff
Each space is maintained by expert technical staff who collaborate with faculty and staff to provide students with instruction and guidance.
Technical staff ensure safe and accessible working environments and lead instructional workshops to enhance your learning.
Faculty
Beyond the Classroom
We’re Canada’s #1 art and design university, known for creative excellence that extends from your academic and studio experience into opportunities outside the classroom and after graduation.
You’ll be part of a dynamic arts community both locally and internationally. The Ceramics program is designed to give students as many opportunities as possible, such as:
- On-campus exhibition space to present your work to the public
- Regular speakers and events
- Conferences and residency opportunities, including the Medalta International Artists in Residence program, run through a partnership between ECU and the North-West Ceramics Foundation
- Networking events with notable artists
- Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant and apprenticeship opportunities with faculty
- Industry experience and work-integrated learning opportunities facilitated by our Careers team
- Connections with local studios, shops, and labs outside ECU
Opportunities after Graduation
Graduates bring many in-demand skills to the job market, from advanced technical abilities to critical knowledge. Many pursue careers as artists or find creative and commercial work while continuing with their own craft.
Upon graduation, students follow a variety of career paths and roles:
- Graduate studies in Fine Arts
- Visual artists
- Self-employed designers and potters
- Art teachers and administrators
- Art therapists
- Landscape architects
- Entrepreneurs