Glass Option - Studio Arts BFA
Glass Option
Studio Arts BFA
Overview for Glass Option - Studio Arts BFA
Through a rigorous and diversified curriculum, the glass option cultivates artists who are as versatile in their making as they are in their thinking. Studio instruction in glassblowing, flame-working, hot and kiln casting, cold-working, kiln-forming, glass imaging processes, and three-dimensional digital technologies help inform each student’s creative potential with glass. An emphasis on research, idea development, material exploration, execution, and presentation equips students with the skills needed to succeed as professionals. This option is part of the studio arts BFA program.
Studio Residency Program
The glass option also offers a Glass Studio Residency Program for artists interested in pursuing glass-related research at RIT.
Industries
Careers and Experiential Learning
Typical Job Titles
| Artistic Director | Creative Director |
| Independent Artist | Small Business Owner/Operator |
| Professional Artist Assistant | Professional Designer |
| Professional Gaffer | Professional Fabricator |
| Freelance Artist Assistant | Freelance Designer |
| Freelance Fabricator | Freelance Gaffer |
| Gallery Director | Gallery Preparator |
| Exhibition Curator | Studio Technician |
| Studio Technician Assistant | Professional Hot Shop Employee |
| Professional Kiln Studio Employee | Professional Cold Working Employee |
| Education Director | Glass Education: High School Teaching |
| Glass Education: Undergraduate/Graduate Teaching | Glass Education: Public Access Studio Teaching |
| Glass Education: Public Demonstration/Narration for Museums, Art Centers, Education Centers | Glass Education: Material Study Workshop Teaching |
| Glass Education: Registrar/Administration | Glass Industry: Architecture |
| Glass Industry: Scientific Instrumentation | Glass Industry: Equipment/Tool Manufacturing |
Cooperative Education and Internships
What’s different about an RIT education? It’s the career experience you gain by completing cooperative education and internships with top companies in every single industry. You’ll earn more than a degree. You’ll gain real-world career experience that sets you apart.
Co-ops and internships take your knowledge and turn it into know-how. Your art and design co-ops will provide hands-on experience that enables you to apply your artistic capabilities in dynamic professional settings while you make valuable connections between classwork and real-world applications.
Students in the glass option are strongly encouraged to complete a cooperative education or internship experience.
Featured Work
Faculty featured in 'New Glass Review'
David Schnuckel, Suzanne Peck
RIT glass faculty Suzanne Peck and David Schnuckel were both selected for the 42nd issue of New Glass Review, the Corning Museum of Glass’ flagship publication showcasing 100 timely, innovative glass...
Rewriting the language of glass art
Suzanne Peck
Suzanne Peck, lecturer of glass, was featured in "New Glass Now," a group exhibition organized by the Corning Museum of Glass that features innovative works by artists and collectives around...
Distinction in Contemporary Glass
RIT’s Glass programs were well represented in New Glass Review 41, Corning Museum of Glass’ annual publication highlighting innovative works from around the world. In 2020, six BFA and MFA alumni of...
Featured Profiles
Molten Glass 3D Printer
RIT's glass program hosted the artist/designer/engineer team behind Evenline as artists in residence for the spring 2023 semester. The innovative company stationed its only-one-of-its-kind molten...
Pre-College Portfolio Prep Workshop 2022
RIT's annual Pre-College Portfolio Preparation Workshop offers students an engaging and rewarding experience. The course, taught by our School of Art's drawing and painting faculty, is a visual arts...
Glass-Color Science Collaboration
A hallmark of RIT's Glass BFA option and MFA program is forming enriching multidisciplinary partnerships — including with the Munsell Color Science Lab on campus.
Curriculum for Glass Option - Studio Arts BFA
Studio Arts (glass option), BFA degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| ARTH-### | Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Artistic Perspective) |
3 |
| ARTH-### | Any 100-level ARTH course (General Education-Global Perspective) |
3 |
| FDTN-111 | Drawing I This course is an introduction to the visualization of form, thought and expression through the drawing process. Concepts are introduced by lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research, and assigned projects. Designed to provide a broad introductory experience, students will experiment with a wide variety of media, tools, techniques and subjects to develop drawing expertise and problem solving skills related to design and composition. Course work will be assessed through critique, facilitating self-assessment, and the growth of both a visual and verbal vocabulary. The focus of the course is to provide awareness of the full range of ways in which drawing is used as a tool for both self-expression and communication. (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| FDTN-121 | 2D Design I This course is a structured, cumulative introduction to the basic elements and principles of two-dimensional design. Organized to create a broad introductory experience, the course focuses on the development of both a visual and a verbal vocabulary as a means of exploring, developing and understanding two-dimensional compositions. Concepts are introduced through lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research, assigned projects and critiques. The course addresses a wide variety of media, tools, techniques both traditional and technological, and theoretical concepts to facilitate skill development and experimentation with process. Visual comprehension, the ability to organize perceptions and horizontal thinking that crosses other disciplines and theories, are key foundational components to the development of problem solving skills. Accumulative aspects of the curriculum included the exploration of historical and cultural themes and concepts intertwined with aspects of personal interpretation and experience. (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| FDTN-131 | 3D Design I This course presents a progressive study over two-semesters in terminology, visual principles, exploration, concept generation, process, and techniques of three-dimensional design. Using hands-on problem solving, student will develop an informed understanding of the 3D form and space with an emphasis on the elements and principles of visual design and their function as the building blocks and guidelines for ordering a 3D composition. A heightened awareness of form and space will be developed through lecture, assigned projects, and critiques. Students will also develop a personal awareness of problem seeking and solving, experimentation, and critical analysis. **Note: May be taken as a one-semester offering** (Undergraduate Art and Design) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| FDTN-112 | Drawing II This course is an introduction to the visualization of form, thought and expression through the drawing process. Concepts are introduced by lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research, and assigned projects. Designed to provide a broad introductory experience, students will experiment with a wide variety of media, tools, techniques and subjects to develop drawing expertise and problem solving skills related to design and composition. Course work will be assessed through critique, facilitating self-assessment, and the growth of both a visual and verbal vocabulary. The focus of the course is to provide awareness of the full range of ways in which drawing is used as a tool for both self-expression and communication. (Prerequisites: FDTN-111 or ITDI-211 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
|
| FDTN-212 | Drawing II Workshop: Topics This course is an investigation of the visualization of form, thought and expression through the drawing process. This workshop provides students with the opportunity to learn more about a particular experience in drawing while still covering required foundation elements. Different topics may be taken in the same semester. Topics may only be taken once. Concepts are introduced by lectures, discussions, demonstrations, research and assigned projects.. The focus of the course is to provide awareness of the full range of ways in which drawing is used as a tool for both self-expression and communication. (Prerequisites: FDTN-111 or ITDI-211 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring). |
|
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
| FDTN-132 | 3D Design II This is the second-semester of a sequential course. The focus is on composing three-dimensional form and its relationship to space. Students will build on their prior term experiences, which include the introduction to 3D principles, materials, and building processes. Students will develop the sophisticated skill of conceptualization. More advanced problems will be assigned and students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of material and process possibilities for their resolution. A heightened awareness of idea development and design research will be explored. Inclusion of 21st century themes in the arts of social cultural and community. (Prerequisites: FDTN-131 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring, Summer). |
|
| FDTN-232 | 3D Design II Workshop: Topic This workshop provides students with the opportunity to learn more about 3D compositions within a more open and experimental realm while still covering the core Foundation concepts. Different topics may be taken in the same semester. Topics may only be taken once. The focus is on composing three-dimensional form and its
relationship to space. Material exposure will be determined by the topic’s instructor. (Prerequisites: FDTN-131 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring). |
|
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections RIT 365 students participate in experiential learning opportunities designed to launch them into their career at RIT, support them in making multiple and varied connections across the university, and immerse them in processes of competency development. Students will plan for and reflect on their first-year experiences, receive feedback, and develop a personal plan for future action in order to develop foundational self-awareness and recognize broad-based professional competencies. Lecture 1 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
General Education – First-Year Writing (WI) |
3 | |
CAD Studio Elective† |
3 | |
General Education – Social Perspective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| CGLS-206 | Molten Glass Practice This course will introduce students to basic glass working processes in the hot glass studio. Solid and blown techniques are introduced as ways to activate ideas through molten glass. Students will learn introductory processes of finishing and further manipulating annealed glass in the cold shop. Students will build technical understanding and material comprehension in the application of these skills through assigned projects motivated by current themes in contemporary art. **Fee: A course fee applied via student account. ** Studio 6 (Fall). |
3 |
| CGLS-211 | Mold and Kiln Glass Practice This course will introduce students to basic mold making and glass working processes in the kiln studio. Fusing, slumping, and casting techniques will be covered as ways to activate ideas through kiln-formed glass. In addition, basic processes of finishing glass in the cold shop will also be introduced. Students will build technical understanding and material comprehension in the application of these skills within self-directed projects motivated by prompted themes found within contemporary art. There is a required out-of-class work time in glass studio at a minimum of 6-9 hours per week. **Fee: A materials fee is required for this course and an additional course fee will be applied via student account** Studio 6 (Fall). |
3 |
| CGLS-307 | Hot Phenomena Glass Practice This hot glass course will allow students to discover and/or rediscover fundamental solid and blown techniques through a fresh lens of instruction and ideas. The cold shop will be an additional studio where students will learn to use the equipment to further their projects. Contemporary themes surrounding material experimentation, problem-solving and making a mess will be the springboards for prompted assignments. **Fee: A course fee applied via student account. ** Studio 6 (Spring). |
3 |
| CGLS-312 | Kinetic Glass Practice This course will introduce students to basic flame working processes. Solid working techniques with borosilicate glass will be covered as ways to activate ideas about making glass move. Basic processes of finishing and further manipulating annealed glass in the cold shop will also be introduced. Students will build technical understanding and material comprehension in the application of these processes. Students will develop projects motivated by themes regarding mechanics, the experimental, and absurdity. ** Fee: A course fee applied via student account** Studio 6 (Spring). |
3 |
| FDTN-141 | 4D Design 4D Design introduces students to the basic concepts of art and design in time and space. The course explores elements of moving images such as continuity, still and moving image editing, transitions and syntax, sound and image relations, and principles of movement. Computers, video, photo, sound and lighting equipment are used to create short-form time-based work relevant to students in all majors and programs required to take this course. The course addresses the both historical conventions of time in art and recent technological advances, which are redefining the fields of Fine Art and Design. In focusing on the relations between students' spacing and timing skills, 4D Design extends and supplements the other Foundation courses, and prepares students for further work with time-based media. (Undergraduate Art and Design) Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| STAR-503 | CAD Drawing |
3 |
Art History Elective‡ |
3 | |
General Education – Ethical Perspective |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 1 (WI-GE) |
3 | |
| Choose one of the following: | 3 |
|
General Education – Natural Science Inquiry Perspective |
||
General Education – Scientific Principles Perspective |
||
General Education – Mathematical Perspective A or B |
||
| Third Year | ||
| CGLS-503 | Glass Practice This course is designed for students to build an intermediate technical relationship with glass process and apply them to prompted studio projects and assignments. Course content will include an informative mix of studio instruction to support skill acquisition in the hot shop, kiln shop, cold shop, and flame shop which will equip the student to generate artwork in support of their personal interests, questions, and curiosities in unique instances of studio crossover. The exploration of technique will also lend way to practices of technical exercise, sample collecting, and failure-spurring experimentation of both material and process to further inform the student what their unique relationship to glass can be as they develop the cornerstones of their making practice and artistic identity. ** Fee: There is a course fee applied via student account** (Prerequisites: CGLS-206 and CGLS-307 and CGLS-211 and CGLS-312 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring). |
6 |
| CGLS-504 | Glass Concepts |
6 |
| STAR-311 | Ideation and Series This course will examine appropriate skills and strategies to generate ideas and develop them effectively. Through personal and group generative idea exercises, journaling and research. Students will explore individual ideas and personal interests a final series of creative works. (Prerequisites: FDTN-141 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall or Spring). |
3 |
Art History Elective‡ |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 2 |
3 | |
CAD Studio Elective† |
3 | |
General Education – Elective |
3 | |
Open Elective |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| CGLS-503 | Glass Practice This course is designed for students to build an intermediate technical relationship with glass process and apply them to prompted studio projects and assignments. Course content will include an informative mix of studio instruction to support skill acquisition in the hot shop, kiln shop, cold shop, and flame shop which will equip the student to generate artwork in support of their personal interests, questions, and curiosities in unique instances of studio crossover. The exploration of technique will also lend way to practices of technical exercise, sample collecting, and failure-spurring experimentation of both material and process to further inform the student what their unique relationship to glass can be as they develop the cornerstones of their making practice and artistic identity. ** Fee: There is a course fee applied via student account** (Prerequisites: CGLS-206 and CGLS-307 and CGLS-211 and CGLS-312 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| CGLS-504 | Glass Concepts |
6 |
| STAR-411 | Business Practices for Artists (WI-PR) This course is devoted to business issues that artists must address including building and maintaining a portfolio, pricing and marketing strategies and public relations. Financial organization and communication skills are highlighted as are networking skills for the advancement of an artist’s work. (Prerequisites: (STAR-311 or CCER-302 or CCER-512 or CWFD-302 or CGLS-302 or CMTJ-302 or equivalent course and completion of First Year Writing (FYW) requirement) or student standing in WOOD-AOS.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
3 |
| STAR-401 | STAR Capstone This course will focus on the production and exhibition of a representative body of artwork. Students will participate in an articulated process of making, engaging in comprehensive research that expands and supports their work, developing a rationale for the use of media and process, creating sketches and models, and the refining work through critiquing and editing. All of this will culminate in the professional presentation of oral, written, and visual work that contextualizes the students’ positions within contemporary artistic practice. Students will also be involved in every aspect of their senior shows from creating the work to installing the exhibition and preparing marketing materials. (Prerequisites: STAR-311 or equivalent course.) Studio 6 (Spring). |
3 |
CAD Studio Elective† |
3 | |
General Education – Immersion 3 |
3 | |
Open Electives |
9 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 120 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
† CAD Studio Electives are any College of Art and Design course with a lab or studio component, per catalog restrictions.
‡ Art History electives are non-studio courses searchable in SIS with the Art History attribute of ARTH.
Admissions and Financial Aid
This option is part of the Studio Arts BFA. Please visit the degree program page for admission requirements.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.
RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships
Latest News
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April 28, 2023
![Michael Stern and Ethan Townsend load their molten glass 3D printer with hot glass to begin the printing process.]()
RIT hosts glass 3D printer for research, multidisciplinary exploration
The first-of-its-kind technology is opening up new creative possibilities at RIT and beyond — it is working to fuel the future of sustainable manufacturing and even space travel.
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December 13, 2022
![A group of artists gather around a table.]()
Innovative rule-breakers: Glass students examine how failure fuels ingenuity
RIT glass students spent the fall producing visual representations of their research into failure and how it relates to their work.
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October 4, 2022
![An overhead view of a student getting their portfolio reviewed by RIT faculty.]()
RIT welcomes prospective students for National Portfolio Day
RIT's College of Art and Design faculty, along with those at 25 other top art and design schools, reviewed students' portfolios as they prepared their artwork for the college admissions process.
