Purpose

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The Certificate in Fine Arts (CFA) certifies completion of approved work and is suitable for students currently working in art, but it is not a transfer certificate. The CFA serves as a halfway point, and pathway toward the Associate of Fine Arts degree (AFA). Students with a bachelor’s degree may choose the CFA for additional certification in art. Students seeking a BA or BFA should see the NSC Associate of Arts degree requirements and the graduation requirements of the university at which they intend to enroll.

Learning Outcomes

  • Use form, organization, structure and tools appropriate to the discipline
  • Understand and use the language and vocabulary of the discipline
  • Make aesthetic judgments and decisions
  • Understand the history and traditions of the discipline
  • Connect the arts with the cultures and societies that they are a part of
  • Integrate the arts into one’s life as a member of the community
  • Function as a citizen and lifelong learner through attitudes, skills, and knowledge gained in courses in areas of knowledge outside of one’s are of focus.

Advising

Work with your primary advisor to begin planning your class schedule, get help registering for classes, and work on your Educational Plan. They will have an annual schedule for the program and classes you will need to take to complete your certificate/degree.  If you have questions about the coursework or projects for a specific class, please contact the instructor of that class for more information. The following procedure outlines the process for this achieving this award.

Although it may be possible to complete this program in one year, it is suggested that it be spread over more time to allow better assimilation of skills and more flexible scheduling. Art courses require out-of-class time, high energy and personal involvement for truly effective learning. The art faculty, therefore, highly recommend that students consider taking no more than two studio courses per quarter.

CFA candidates must complete 45 credits college-level courses (numbered 100 or greater) with a minimum GPA of 2.0. At least 15 credits must be earned at NSC, and the final quarter must be completed at NSC.

Some art courses are offered only once a year, so students should consult with their adviser and plan accordingly.  Substitution may be made only with the approval of the art advisor and the dean.

See printer friendly PDF file at top of this page for the complete requirements, a recommended sequence of courses, and a course planning worksheet