Saint Michael's College

What you'll study

The programme emphasises studio practice alongside contextual study, allowing students to build a sustained art-making practice while engaging with the histories and theories that inform contemporary art. Course work typically includes foundational studios (drawing, colour, 2D and 3D design), intermediate and advanced studios in areas such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography and digital media, plus courses in contemporary art practices.

• Foundational modules: Drawing, 2D Design, 3D Design, Colour Theory
• Intermediate and advanced studios: Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, Photography, Ceramics, Time-based and New Media
• Contextual and theoretical studies: Western and Global Art History, Contemporary Art Theory, Visual Culture
• Professional practice: Portfolio Development, Exhibition Design, Grant Writing and Arts Entrepreneurship
• Capstone: Senior Seminar and Senior Studio Exhibition or thesis project

Students take elective and liberal-arts courses across the College, fostering interdisciplinary approaches and critical thinking. Small studio classes and critiques are central; students regularly present work in class critiques and public exhibitions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals, and a digital or physical portfolio of recent work that demonstrates creative potential and technical ability. Letters of recommendation and an interview (in person or virtual) may also be requested. Mature applicants with relevant experience are welcome to apply; international applicants must meet the College's language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of creative and cultural careers or continue to postgraduate study. Typical pathways include:

• Practising artist exhibiting in galleries and arts festivals
• Arts education roles (elementary and secondary teaching usually require additional certification)
• Gallery or museum work such as curatorial assistant, collections technician or exhibition preparator
• Arts administration, fundraising and community arts coordination
• Commercial creative roles such as illustrator, designer or visual content creator (often alongside freelance work)
• Postgraduate study leading to an MFA, MA in Art History, Arts Administration, or specialised professional training (for example art therapy)

Why study at Saint Michael's College

Saint Michael's offers a personalised liberal-arts environment with small studio classes, close faculty mentorship and frequent exhibition opportunities in campus galleries. Teaching combines technical instruction with critical inquiry, and students benefit from the College's ties to Vermont's vibrant regional arts community, enabling internships and collaborations with local museums and arts organisations. The curriculum supports both studio skill development and professional readiness through portfolio preparation, public exhibitions and guidance on career pathways or graduate study.