Glass Certificate Program

The mission of the Glass Certificate Program is to cultivate skills in the glass arts: glassblowing, stained glass, lampworking, and neon. We provide instructors who have achieved recognition in the
glass arts to share their passion and expertise in small group settings. Hobby, second income, or retirement business, this program will train and prepare the student so they can proceed to
whatever level they choose.

We have designed a Glass Certificate Program for our students that will:

1. allow them to work in glass independently
2. establish a basis and an incentive for additional formal study
3. promote eligibility for short course study at nationally renowned art centers
4. provide entrée to the community of art, artists, glass collection, and patron relationships
5. engage them in lifelong learning

The Glass Certificate Program includes required courses in each of the following areas:

Level 1: Safety and Introduction to the Medium

• This course reviews all the relevant safety issues concerning the glass artist and their workspace.
• Introduction courses teach the basis or core of all the classes. Examples are used and a manual is given to help guide the student. Sketchbook work, history, self discovery, and team work are all emphasized.
• Experimental hands-on discovery begins.

Level 2: Core classes in chosen field: glassblowing, stained glass, lampwork, or neon.

• Students receive hands on training and begin their formal instruction. At this time a deeper understanding of the medium allows the student to express their personal interest and commitment.
• Review, historical basis, drawing skills, and demonstrations will enhance each level.

Level 3: Art Glass as a Business

• For students wishing to pursue additional income, this class teaches the fundamentals of art fairs, gallery consignment and wholesale, trade shows, and more.
• Students wishing to set up their own studio will benefit from the practical advice and information given in this class.

Level 4: Independent study

• This class allows the student to focus on a particular style or technique until they have perfected it to their satisfaction.
• The advanced student must be disciplined and have a focus with an end result in mind.
• Personal critiques, guidance, and encouragement are given.

The Glass Certificate Program or GCP, has the following requirements:

• Safety and Introduction to the medium: 24 credit hours
• Art Glass as a Business: 18 credit hours
• Core classes in chosen field: 72 credit hours
• Independent study: 48 credit hours

Total Credit hours for the GCP: 162 credit hours