Ceramics

About the ceramics major

Herron’s ceramics curriculum develops your understanding of the medium in the context of contemporary society and historical tradition. You'll gain skills in analysis of specific works of art that are developed through courses in art theory, art history, research methods, and the uses of materials and tools needed to create works of art. You'll also study specific periods, cultures, styles, and themes that exist in the field of art. The ceramics program is supported by lavish space and equipment in the heart of 16 Tech, an innovation community in Indianapolis.

Skills and abilities this major develops: understanding historical contexts, analysis, fine art skills, and cultural competency (Herron School of Art and Design, 2017).

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Student organizations

Herron’s student organizations will help you build professional and personal relationships within your discipline.

Career services

Guidance from Herron Career Services is tailored to your needs at all levels throughout your journey—including internship and networking with alumni.

Study abroad

Herron's study abroad programs are a powerful way to discover the historical impact of art and design in the world and over time while making memorable friendships.

Opportunities after graduation

Employment of craft and fine artists is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 5,900 openings for craft and fine artists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as retirement (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022).

According to the IU Indianapolis First Destination Survey in 2021, the average starting salary reported for Herron graduates was $34,677, and the median was $35,000.

The national median annual salary for craft and fine artists was $49,960 in 2021 (Occupational Outlook Handbook).

(This section is intended for informational purposes, not prediction of actual salary.)

Ceramics majors often pursue advanced degrees in the following areas:

Art education
Art history
Art therapy
Arts administration
Fine arts
Museum studies

Quick facts

Sample coursework

Art history
Drawing
Hand building
Studio
Understanding contemporary art
Visual communications
Wheel throwing

Possible careers

Art teacher*
Freelance artist
Gallerist
Nonprofit program coordinator
Production designer
Visual artist

*This career requires additional training or education.

Where could I work?

Art museums and galleries
Commercial art
Education
Indianapolis Art Center
IU Indianapolis or Ivy Tech
Operations

Complementing interests

AArtistic

EEnterprising

RRealistic

Get your interest code

Where to get more information

Herron School of Art and Design

College Art Association (CAA)

Herron Career Services

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools.

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

Schedule an appointment