Students with an interest in glass blowing as an artistic medium can enroll in individual glassblowing courses or bachelor's and master's degree programs in fine arts, with a focus on glass.
Schools with Glass Programs
The following public and private schools offer programs in the field:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition (2018-2019) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temple University | Philadelphia, PA | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's | $16,970 (In-state) $29,066 (Out-of-state) |
| Ball State University | Muncie, IN | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $9,896 (In-state) $26,468 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison, WI | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's | $10,555 (In-state) $36,805 (Out-of-state) |
| University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's, Master's | $10,496 (In-state) $26,533 (Out-of-state) |
| Boston University | Boston, MA | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Elective art coursework | $53,948 |
| Central College | Pella, IA | 4-year, Private | Bachelor's | $37,296 |
| Tulane University | New Orleans, LA | 4-year, Private not-for-profit | Bachelor's, Master's | $54,820 |
| Illinois State University | Normal, IL | 4-year, Public | Bachelor's | $14,516 (In-state) $26,040 (Out-of-state) |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics, School websites
School Selection Criteria
Some important considerations for choosing a school include:
- Consider the characteristics of available facilities such as the size of the studio, different rooms for working with hot and cold glass and flame working rooms to select the best space for you.
- Look for programs that emphasize professional development to help secure a job after graduation.
- Students may consider programs with experienced faculty members to learn the best techniques and tips of the trade.
- The financial differences between a public and private art school may be something a future student needs to consider and prepare for.
Glassblowing Courses
Glassblowing for the scientific field is often offered as a single course through a school's chemistry department. Many universities have a glassblowing facility on campus where students learn to fabricate a variety of scientific apparatuses, including distillation equipment, laser tubes and condensers. Alternatively, some community colleges offer individual courses in glassblowing for aesthetic purposes in which students are introduced to the techniques of heating and manipulating glass.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Glass
Bachelor's degree programs cover a variety of uses for glass. Students may check the courses available to ensure a glassblowing course is included in a program's curriculum. In the final year, students typically work to develop a coherent body of work. Graduates may work as artists, designers, business owners and educators or in art galleries.
Master of Fine Arts in Glass
Those in Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs can expect to engage in artistic critique and develop a portfolio. Graduate students might also have the opportunity to experience professional development through assistantships. Courses include studios in which students can develop their aesthetic senses and seminars in which students learn design forms and review the works of other artists.
Courses, bachelor's degrees and master's degrees with a focus on glass blowing are available from several 4-year institutions throughout the country. Students may want to consider campus facilities and professional development opportunities while selecting a school.