Academy of Art University

Master of Arts (MA) in Jewelry & Metal Arts

Unit Requirements

Degree Requirements

• Successful completion of Final Portfolio Review
• A minimum grade of C in all required 36 units
• Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA and the following Academic Study requirements:
  • 1 Art Historical Awareness & Aesthetic course

Curriculum

Semester 1

• FA 601: Drawing (Major)
• JEM 610: Jewelry & Metal Arts: Design & Fabrication (Major)
• JEM 668: Digital Design: Laser Cutting and Milling (Major)

Semester 2

• JEM 605: Forging & Forming (Major)
• JEM 608: Wax Model Making and Introduction to Casting (Major)
• JEM 620: Jewelry & Metal Arts: Advanced Design & Fabrication (Major)

Semester 3

• GLA 606: Crossing Borders: Art & Culture in a Global Society (Graduate Liberal Arts)
• JEM 635: Modern & Contemporary Design & Techniques (Major)
• JEM 649: Modular Casting for Jewelry and Sculpture (Major)

Semester 4

• GLA 674: Professional Practices for Fine Artists (Graduate Liberal Arts)
• IND 725: Introduction to Digital 3D Modeling (Major)
• JEM 644: Project Development (Major)

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Visual Communication

• Work with advanced level skill in chosen mediums and techniques

Research and Concept Development

• Apply project-related research to design solutions

Critical Analysis

• Critically discuss work using objective criteria: describing facts, analyzing techniques, interpreting content, and evaluating results
• Discuss work within the context of historical movements and contemporary trends

Professional Readiness

• Produce a cohesive portfolio tailored to reflect career goals

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

• Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
• Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
• Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
• Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
• Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
• Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
• Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.

Academy of Art University offers some of the best training and hands-on experience to help you pursue jewelry careers. We pride ourselves in doing an exceptional job preparing you to excel in your future jewelry careers. Our degree programs are designed to equip aspiring professionals with a comprehensive toolbox of marketable skills that lead to success in the industry.

CAD Jewelry Designer

Create jewelry designs using software for 3D modeling and printing. Realize designs using printed wax and plastic models, CNC machines, milling, and laser cutting for use with modern jewelry production techniques. Work side by side with production teams to ensure manufacturing consistency in this dynamic career path.

Casting Specialist

Work with a variety of clients during the design, prototype, and final production stages. Utilize your expertise to provide solutions for intricate designs and challenging concepts. Stay updated on the newest metal alloys and technologies to ensure the best possible metal castings.

Gallery/Museum Curator

Apply your knowledge of the jewelry profession to curate exciting and thought-provoking exhibitions in a gallery or boutique-style space. Inspire and educate the general public about the jewelry and artwork you represent. Introduce collectors and connoisseurs to new and emerging artists from around the world.

Jewelry & Metal Arts Instructor

Teach students to apply traditional hand techniques and modern technology in the production of jewelry and metal arts while encouraging creativity and self-expression. Instruct the next generation of artists and designers in the latest fabrication methods, materials, and aesthetics used by leading jewelers and metalsmiths. Provide a historical context for the student's artistic exploration and practice.

Studio Jeweler/Gallery Artist

Focus on developing a conceptual and technically sound body of work for collectors and exhibitions within a museum or gallery setting. Explore historical, political, or personal narratives while creating one-of-a-kind and limited edition works in your studio. Engage in a dialog with viewers and collectors about the many techniques incorporated into your pieces and the underlying themes represented.

Technical Designer

As a technical jewelry designer, you are a part of the design team creating drawings and digital files for use in production. Plan, iterate, and create maquettes for rapid prototyping in this exciting career path.