<p>PAFA (Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts) and Lyme Academy offer both a BFA and Certificate Programs. Does anyone know how this impacts your future as it relates to job search, continuing education, and preparedness as an artist? It seems to me that the certificate programs are very focused, and, for the right kid, a perfect fit. I relate it to a trade school experience in that the student is learning what is necessary to advance their skills without spending more time and money on classes that do not interest them. I am looking for other wonderful painting programs that offer studio concentrations and the opportunity to earn a BFA as well.</p>
<p>SMFA + 5th year looks good if I could pay.
It changed name from Diploma to Studio program this year, suppose sounds better that way…
or you are saying you want BFA with it???</p>
<p>If you think there is a possibility that you will want to pursue and advanced academic degree beyond undergraduate school (ex. MFA), you should have a degree… BFA, BA, BM, BS, rather than the certificate. Most graduate schools will not accept the certificate as a pre-requisite for admissions.</p>
<p>I think you hit the nail on the head when you said it would be a good match for the right kid.
Art schools/universities aren’t the right place for everyone, neither are certificate programs.</p>
<p>The clear advantages of a BFA would be the rounded education. You aren’t just learning technical skills like you would in a certificate program, you’re learning in-depth skills that foster the ability to conceptualize and innovate. Also, BFA programs give students academic exposure that will not only enable them to be more creative in the art world but also develop educated, intelligent adults. </p>
<p>I think many people are realizing that it’s not enough to know one skill, or even have just one degree. BFA and masters addresses this problem, but it is not the only way to get an education. A certificate program would be a good solution for a student wishing to refine their technical skills while allowing them time and space to grow outside of the classroom.</p>
<p>In the end, it’s the brain and the hand that are most important, not what’s written on a certificate or diploma :)</p>