Fine Arts

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About Fine Arts

The ability to see the world differently, to translate an idea into something visual, tactile or experiential, is a skill that never goes out of demand. CCC's Fine Arts program gives you the technical foundation and creative confidence to pursue work as an artist, continue your education at a four-year university, or bring a creative perspective to whatever field you enter.

Program Options

Fine Arts at CCC is a transfer degree, meaning the courses you take here count toward a bachelor’s degree at any Arizona public university. Whether you are just beginning to explore your creative potential or you already know you want to pursue a career in the visual arts, this is where that journey starts.

Associate of Fine Arts: Visual Arts (AFA) Degree
Fine Arts Electives

What Can I Do within Fine arts?

Build your skills as a working artist or prepare to transfer and pursue a career in art education, art history, gallery work or photography. CCC’s Fine Arts program develops the foundational studio skills and art history context that four-year programs expect you to have, and that working artists rely on throughout their careers.

Fine Arts graduates pursue include:

Studio Artist
Photographer
Art Educator (with further education)
Art History or Museum Professional (with further education)
Gallery or Exhibition Coordinator
Illustrator

What Will I Learn?

The AFA curriculum develops both the technical skills and critical thinking expected of students entering a university fine arts program. Coursework develops:

Drawing skills including rendering form, light and shade, texture, and expressive mark-making across a variety of media
Composition skills in two and three-dimensional media, including balance, rhythm, contrast, emphasis, and unity
Color theory and the use of color as both a structural and expressive element
Art history from prehistoric through contemporary periods, examined in their social and cultural context
The ability to analyze and critically evaluate the form and content of works of art
Studio practice in one or more concentrations including drawing, painting, photography, ceramics, and sculpture

Program at a glance

Credential: Associate of Fine Arts
Total credits: 60 to 64
Program length: Approximately 2 years full time
Course delivery: In-person, studio-based instruction
Campus: Lone Tree
Financial Aid eligible: Yes

Transfer Options

The Associate of Fine Arts is designed specifically for students planning to transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree. CCC works directly with Arizona’s public universities to make sure your credits count when you get there, so you are not starting over or losing ground on your way to a bachelor’s degree. Requirements may differ among universities, so it is strongly advised that you meet with an academic advisor before enrolling to confirm which institution and program you are targeting and to make sure your coursework aligns with their specific requirements.

Please meet with an Advisor to discuss options.

Career Outlook

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior art experience to enroll?
No. CCC’s Fine Arts courses welcome students at all experience levels. Whether you’ve been making art for years or you’re picking up a brush for the first time, you’ll find a place to learn and grow.
Is the Associate of Fine Arts only for students who want to become professional artists?
Not at all. Many students pursue Fine Arts to develop creative skills that support other fields, including design, education, architecture, marketing, and communications. The program builds visual thinking and problem-solving skills that are useful across a wide range of careers.
Will my credits transfer to a university?
Yes. The Associate of Fine Arts in Visual Arts is a transfer degree designed to apply toward a bachelor’s degree at Arizona public universities. CCC works directly with Arizona’s public universities to make sure your credits count when you get there. Meet with an advisor to confirm how your coursework applies to your intended institution and major.
Can I take Fine Arts classes without pursuing the full degree?
Yes. Fine Arts electives are open to any student who wants to explore studio art, build creative skills, or simply enjoy making something, regardless of your program of study.
Will I build a portfolio?
Yes. Developing a body of work is an important part of a Fine Arts education at CCC. Your coursework will help you build the technical skills and artistic voice that four-year programs and professional careers expect.
What materials or supplies will I need?
Supply requirements vary by course. Your instructor will provide a detailed list at the start of the semester.