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Art and the Creative Process

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About the Art and the Creative Process Program

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Information Session

Find out more about the program in a free, online information session.

Art Programs Information SessionINFO-70157

Units: 0.00

Free

Learn more about the Art Programs at UC San Diego Extended Studies! This free, twenty-minute on-demand information session is for those interested in learning more about our available art courses and ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Required Courses

Drawing I: Focus on PerceptionART-40166

Units: 3.00

$325

Drawing I: Focus on Perception 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassLearn basic drawing techniques through a variety of instructor demonstrations, guided in-class exercises and homework projects. Topics include...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Drawing II: Refining TechniqueART-40253

Units: 3.00

$325

Drawing II: Refining Technique 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassDrawing is the most basic instinct for an artist. The act of drawing is the physical manifestation of all concepts, beliefs and visions no m...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter, Spring

Introduction to PaintingART-40180

Units: 3.00

$325

Develop a Strong Foundation in Painting!10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassExplore basic painting techniques while developing visual awareness and artistic self-expression through this in-person class. Princip...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter, Spring

Creative Process IART-40191

Units: 3.00

$325

Creative Process I 9 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassIn the supportive atmosphere of this studio class, you will explore a variety of art materials and techniques with stimulating projects that will spark you...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter

Creative Process IIART-40181

Units: 3.00

$325

Creative Process II 9 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassTap your creativity through a variety of art-making projects designed to spur your imagination and broaden your abilities. Projects include 2 3 dimensio...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Art History

Minimum of 2 units required. Topics vary.

Architectural History of San DiegoART-40436

Units: 2.00

$195

San Diego offers many noteworthy examples of domestic, commercial, entertainment, industrial and roadside architecture, as well as designed landscapes. This course provides a historical overview of Sa...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Art through the Ages: Prehistory to Ancient EgyptART-40420

Units: 1.00

$115

In this art historical survey, the first of several parts, students will be introduced to the Paleolithic cave paintings of Lascaux, sculptures of the ancient Sumerians, and the magnificent pyramids o...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Art through the Ages: Ancient Greece and RomeART-40426

Units: 1.00

$115

Explore the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, from the legendary King Minos palace on the island of Crete to the colossal portrait of Emperor Constantine among Rome s ancient ruins. I...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Art of the Medieval WorldART-40434

Units: 1.00

$115

Explore the art and architecture of the medieval period in this third course of our nine-part Art Through the Ages series. From meticulous illuminated manuscripts to soaring Gothic cathedrals, this c...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Art of the Late Gothic and Early RenaissanceART-40444

Units: 1.00

$115

Towards the end of the 13th century, Europe is consumed by a profound metamorphosis and artists are increasingly influenced by nature, humanism, and antiquity (Roman times). In the North, artists meti...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Art of the High Renaissance & the Baroque AgeART-40450

Units: 1.00

$115

Do you wonder what inspired Leornardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo and other significant artists of 16th Century Europe? In this class, we will examine the major social and theological shifts that ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Art through the Ages: Rococo to ImpressionismART-40461

Units: 1.00

$115

Did you ever wonder what happened in Europe after the Sun King Louis XIV died? In this class, we will explore how the European political, social cultural landscape changes after the demise of absolu...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Introduction to Modern Art: Impressionism to World War IIART-40472

Units: 1.00

$115

After the decline of Impressionism, a wealth of European and American artists and movements start to appear not adhering to standard categories. In the 7th installment of our 9-part Art History serie...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Summer

Contemporary Art 101ART-40480

Units: 1.00

$115

Contemporary Art 101This class examines major themes and practices of visual art produced since the 1960 s.Looking at such key movements as Pop, Minimalism, Feminism and Conceptualism, students explor...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Summer

Art NowART-40695

Units: 1.00

$95

Art NowIn the final installment of our 9-part Art History course series, students examine a sample of contemporary art pieces made since 2000 and how they fit into art historical themes, practice, and...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Drawing Electives

Please note, Drawing I: Focus on Perception is a pre-requisite for most courses. Minimum of 9 total elective units required, 3 of which must be painting elective units.

Figure Drawing IART-40006

Units: 3.00

$395

Figure Drawing I 10 Weeks | $395 Gain greater confidence in your ability to compose and render the human form. This course provides an in-depth study of how to draw the human figure using live nude m...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer

Figure Drawing IIART-40167

Units: 3.00

$395

Figure Drawing II 10 Weeks | $395 | In-ClassEnhance your drawing strengths through direct observation of a live model and classroom practice using a variety of materials, including charcoal, pencil, ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Playing with Pen & InkART-40661

Units: 3.00

$325

Playing with Pen Ink 10 weeks | $325 | In-Class Playing with Pen and Ink is an introduction to ink drawing and its unique effects. We will explore the broad variety and versatility of pen and ink...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Digital Illustration Using a Graphics TabletART-40651

Units: 3.00

$325

Digital Illustration Using a Graphics Tablet 9 Weeks | $325 | OnlineLearn to maximize the drawing and painting tools inside professional art and design programs while using a graphics tablet. Graphic...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Drawing Ideas: Developing Your SketchbookART-40447

Units: 3.00

$325

Drawing Ideas: Developing Your Sketchbook 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassDrawing in your sketchbook regularly is one of the best ways to improve your drawing skills and to exercise your creativity, as wel...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Introduction to IllustrationART-40428

Units: 3.00

$325

Introduction to Illustration 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassLearn the fundamentals of illustration by exploring the link between language and image. Translate ideas, text, or narrative into pictures that ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter, Summer

Animal IllustrationART-40162

Units: 3.00

$325

Animal Illustration 10 weeks | $325 | Live Online Learn how to capture the spirit of animals in your artwork with a focus on using watercolor. This course will introduce the fundamental skills of d...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter, Summer

Animation I: Introduction to Disney's 12 Principles of AnimationART-40557

Units: 3.00

$495

Animation I: Introduction to Disney s 12 Principles of Animation 10 Weeks | $495 | OnlineUsing the simplicity of basic 2D animation, students will become familiar with Disney s 12-Principles of Anim...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring

Travel SketchingART-40155

Units: 2.00

$225

Add to your travel memories by adding creative and colorful illustrations to your journal. In this condensed-format course, students learn to train the eye and hand to record--quickly and with flair--...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Summer

Painting Electives

Please note, Introduction to Painting is a pre-requisite for most courses. Minimum of 9 total elective units required, 3 of which must be painting elective units.

Abstract PaintingART-40194

Units: 3.00

$325

Abstract Painting 10 Weeks | $325 | In-classDiscover the beauty of abstract language. Using acrylic paint, we will explore formal elements of line, shape, value, form, color, texture and pattern. You...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter

Abstract Painting IIART-40304

Units: 3.00

TBD

Abstract Painting II (Advanced) 10 Weeks | $325 | In-classDiscover your own creative language through the use of acrylic or oil paint and the formal elements of design. In Abstract Painting II, you w...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter

Oil Painting IART-40002

Units: 3.00

$325

Oil Painting I 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassDevelop your paint handling skills and enhance your perceptual abilities in Oil Painting I. This class is designed for beginners as well as anyone looking to ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Watercolor I: Basic Techniques and MaterialsART-40625

Units: 3.00

$325

Watercolor I: Basic Techniques and Materials 10 Weeks | $325 | In-Class/Live OnlineWatercolors are a brilliant, versatile and a fascinating medium to work with! Develop basic painting skills in trans...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Intermediate WatercolorART-40239

Units: 3.00

$325

Intermediate Watercolor 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassDo you have paints, brushes and paper, but don t know what to do next? In this class, those with some prior experience with watercolor will learn new...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter, Summer

Acrylic Painting IART-40242

Units: 3.00

$325

Acrylic Painting I 10 Weeks | $325 | In-classExplore acrylic painting through exercises designed to help you gain confidence in your work. Learn the ins and outs of this amazing and multi-use medium ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Plein Air Painting: A Working MethodART-40483

Units: 2.00

$215

Plein Air Painting: A Working Method 6 Weeks | $215 | In-ClassLearn how to capture the landscape in front of you! This six-day workshop will provide you with a step-by-step working method to tackle t...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall, Winter

California Impressionism: Plein Air PaintingART-40556

Units: 2.00

$295

California Impressionism: Plein Air Painting 6 Weeks | $215 | In-ClassCapture the essence of the California landscape using the impressionist techniques of rapid wet-in-wet painting! Rather than focu...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Color Fields: An Exploration in PaintingART-40451

Units: 2.00

$245

Color Fields: An Exploration in Painting 6 Weeks | $245 | In-ClassLearn how to create captivating composition with color! This short workshop is designed for novice artists eager to use color more ef...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Painting alla PrimaART-40656

Units: 2.00

$245

Painting Alla Prima 6 Weeks | $245 | In-classPainting alla prima, or the direct painting method, is a fast-paced, centuries-old painting technique that coaxes the painter to be bold and decisive....

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Summer

Mixed Media Electives

Check back regularly for new course listings. Minimum of 9 total elective units required, 3 of which must be painting elective units.

Introduction to Mosaic ArtART-40354

Units: 3.00

$325

Introduction to Mosaic Art 10 weeks | $325 | In-ClassCreate mosaic art by employing different methods and working with a variety of materials in this introductory course. Explore methods for creating...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Winter, Summer

Introduction to Mosaic SculptureART-40385

Units: 3.00

$325

Introduction to Mosaic Sculpture 9 meetings | $325 | In-ClassLearn basic mosaic skills and advanced techniques to create 3-dimensional constructions and mosaic surfaces in relief. Create unique artwo...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Spring

Introduction to Curvilinear Mosaic SculptureART-40676

Units: 3.00

$325

Introduction to Curvilinear Mosaic Sculpture 10 weeks | $325 | In-Class Learn basic mosaic skills and advanced techniques to create a curvilinear 3-dimensional constructions. This class includes dem...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Creative Process IIIART-40183

Units: 3.00

TBD

Creative Process III 9 weeks | $325 | Schedule VariesAnchor the creative thought process and art in your life and work place. Continue the paths of learning and exploration begun in Creative Process ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Color Theory for Fine ArtistsART-40697

Units: 3.00

TBD

Color Theory for Fine Artists 10 Weeks | $325 | In-ClassColor Theory for the Fine Artist will focus on understanding the properties of color and the visual relationships between colors. The Artist s ...

Upcoming Start Dates:
Typically Offered: Fall

Certificate Guidelines

The program consists of earning at least 26 quarter units (9-11 courses) including 15 required course units (5 courses), minimum of 2 art history units (1-2 courses), and a minimum of 9 elective units, 3 of which must be a painting course (3-4 courses). Students should be able to complete the entire certificate program in 2.5 years.
 

Required Program Materials

Materials and software requirements vary by course. Before enrolling in a course, please refer to the course description for exact material and software requirements. If you have any additional questions about course materials, please reach out to us at ahl@ucsd.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All

Will I get any hands-on experience in the program?

Most courses combine theory with hands-on exercises. Our courses are taught by professionals who work in the field they teach, and will bring real-life projects and examples to your course.

If I work full-time, will I still be able to complete this program?

Yes. Our programs are designed to be working-student friendly and most of our students are working professionals. The courses vary between two and three units, which amount to approximately 18-20 hours of class time for a two unit course and 27-30 hours of class time for a three unit course.

How long does it take to complete this certificate?

You officially have five years to complete all requirements for the certificate, although students can usually complete the entire program in 15-24 Months (5-8 quarters) by taking 1-2 courses per quarter.     
 

How much does this program cost?

While the final cost will vary based on what classes you choose and how you pace your program, the approximate total is $4,620 including certificate fee, and course fees. Estimate does not include textbooks, equipment, or supplies. Students pay as they go when they register for classes, not in one lump sum.

Is the program accredited?

UC San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies — like all other UC San Diego schools, colleges, and departments — is accredited by WASC through the University. All courses and certificate programs offered by UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies have been developed and are administered in accordance with Extension policy and the regulations of the Academic Senate of the University of California.

How do I get my certificate once I have completed the requirements?

When you have paid your certificate fee and successfully completed all program requirements, you will need to request an audit by Student Services. To request an audit:

• In your My Extension account, click on “My Courses.” 

• On the right side of the page under “My Certificates,” click on the name of the certificate. 

• On the right side of the page under “Tools,” click on “Request Certificate Audit.” 

• Complete and submit the form that appears. 

Once you have formally submitted your audit request, your certificate will be mailed to the address we have on file for you within ten business days.

Is financial assistance available?

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies facilitates private education loans through UC Approved Lenders for students officially enrolled in a certificate. Information on these programs can be found at extension.ucsd.edu/financial. State-Funded Training is available through EDD (Employment Development Dept.); more information can be found on their website: www.edd.ca.gov

In what order should I take these courses?

You may take most of the courses in any order you would like. Please check course descriptions for any prerequisites prior to enrolling. We recommend enrolling in Drawing I: Focus on Perception and Introduction to Painting early, as these courses are prerequisites to many other art courses. Creative Process I must be taken prior to Creative Process II.

How do I apply to the certificate program?

STEP 1: If you have a My Extension student account, skip to Step 2.  If you do not have a My Extension account, go to myextension.ucsd.edu, click “Create an account” on the right side of the page, and follow the instructions to create an account. Once you have a My Extension account, continue to Step 2.

STEP 2: Click on the “Apply Now” button on the certificate page. Complete the required fields on the application. Then click the “Save” button. Once you have saved the application, the “Submit” button will appear. Click the “Submit” button to submit your application for review and consideration. Once submitted, your application cannot be changed.  You can track the progress of your application at My Extension.

Is there an application fee for the certificate program?

Current application or certificate enrollment fees, if any, are listed under the “Apply Now” button on the certificate page on our website.

Can I register for the certificate program at any time?

Yes, you may enroll in the program at any time. However, it is recommended that you enroll as soon as possible. The program curriculum may be updated at any time; if certificate requirements change, you must adhere to the curriculum at the time of your enrollment into the certificate. Enrolling in the certificate also gives you access to quarterly, personalized enrollment reminders from the program manager.

Can I take a course without registering for the certificate?

Yes, you may take any course in this program except for the final capstone portfolio course without registering for the certificate, provided you have fulfilled any and all prerequisites for the course.

When should I enroll in my class(es)?

We recommend enrolling as soon as possible. Each quarter we offer an early enrollment discount of $25 on select courses if you enroll by the discount deadline. 

How do I enroll in a class?

To enroll in a class, click on the class link in the course matrix above and that will take you to the specific class page. On the class page you can find additional details about the course such as start date, time, classroom number, instructor and textbook info.  To enroll click on “Add to Cart” which will lead you to complete the registration/payment process. You can also register over the phone with Student Services at 858-534-3400.

Why was my enrollment in a course blocked?

Enrollment in a class may be blocked in the following situations:

  • The class is closed (see FAQ on when enrollment closes). Our capstone UX Portfolio course requires that students reach out to unex-digital@ucsd.edu prior to enrolling.
  • The class is at capacity. If the class is at capacity you will only be able to join the waitlist. Students on the waitlist are contacted in the order they joined the waitlist.
  • The class is cancelled due to low enrollments.
  • The class has prerequisites that the student has not completed yet.

    If you feel that you have fulfilled the prerequisites, please contact ahl@ucsd.edu

What are the grading options?

When students enroll in a class they are given three grading options: Letter grade, Pass/No Pass, or Not for Credit. Students taking a class as part of a certificate need to complete their classes for credit (i.e. Pass/No Pass or Letter grade) and receive a C-/Pass or higher grade.

Grades below a C-, No Pass, and Not for Credit do not count towards certificate requirements.

When is the refund deadline?

The refund deadline for the art courses is typically six (6) days after the first class meeting for in-person classes, or the first Friday of the class for online classes. This allows students to attend the first class meeting to determine if the class is a good fit for them. The exact refund deadline for each section is listed in the section notes.    

What are the attendance and participation requirements?

Students are expected to attend all class meetings, participate in class, and complete all homework assignments. Attendance is factored as a part of students’ final grades, and varies by instructor. Typically students can miss one class meeting without it impacting their final grade as long as they still complete their homework. Students who miss a class meeting should always reach out to their instructor regarding late work and homework.

How many hours can I expect to spend studying outside of class time?

Each student has their own learning style so this can vary greatly. As a rule of thumb, expect to spend an average of two hours studying or homework for every hour you spend in-class. 

How do I communicate with a course instructor if I have a question during the course?

Each instructor has his/her own preferred method of communication and response policy, which will be detailed on the course syllabus. If you have a question for the instructor prior to the course start date, contact our office at ahl@ucsd.edu

How long is each course?

Two unit courses run for approximately 6 weeks; three unit courses run for approximately 9 weeks; four unit courses run for approximately 10 weeks. For exact course dates of upcoming sections, visit the webpage of the course you are interested in taking on our website.

Where are the classes held?

All of our in-class courses are held at our La Jolla Extension complex or at our University City Center location. For directions, visit https://extension.ucsd.edu/maps 

Do I need to pay for parking?

If your class is located at our La Jolla campus and takes place on a weeknight, you will need to pay for parking. No parking permit is required at our University City Center (UCC) location.

We recommend purchasing a quarterly night parking permit (~$43). If you are taking a 9-10 week class it is more affordable to buy this permit rather than use the hourly permit machines ($3 per hour). Quarterly night permits can be purchased online at: http://ow.ly/DnTP302mth0. Parking on weekends is free.

What class materials are used in my course?

Materials and software requirements vary by course. For details, check the course page.

Can I transfer in any courses?

Students can transfer in up to two courses that match the content of our required courses. Please email ahl@ucsd.edu for more information about the transferability of previously completed courses.

Are these classes transferable?

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies is not a degree granting institution, however many UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies courses can be transferred to other colleges or universities.

The transferability of credit is determined solely by the receiving institution. Students should discuss how your individual courses will transfer with the Office of the Registrar at the receiving institution prior to enrolling.

Quarter to Semester Unit Conversion

If the receiving institution operates on a semester system, credits will be converted to semester hours during their evaluation. As a general rule, quarter credits are converted to semester credits by dividing the number of quarter credits by 1.5. For example, if the student completed a course worth 4 quarter credits at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, the course would be worth 4 ÷ 1.5 = 2.66 semester credits.

I am in high school. Can I take any of these courses?

If you are interested in taking courses at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, you will need to obtain written approval from your school principal or counselor. The approval must be signed and printed on school letterhead, and must be included with your registration. If you are homeschooled, your approval needs to be signed by your contact in your local school district.

The letter should verify that you, the student, have the maturity and academic readiness to attend a post-baccalaureate level or college-level course.

Approvals can be faxed to 858-534-8527, emailed to unex-reg@ucsd.edu, or mailed to:

                UCSD Diego Division of Extended Studies Student Services
                9500 Gilman Dr., Dept. 0176-H
                La Jolla, CA   92093-0176

We are unable to accept letters signed by your parent, even if your parent is your teacher and/or school administrator. If you have taken community college courses, an official transcript from that college verifying coursework will be accepted in lieu of a letter from your high school or district. College transcripts must reflect a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

**Please note that some courses may address adult themes or use nude models.

Additional questions?

For questions regarding our classes and certificates, please contact us at ahl@ucsd.edu or 858-534-5760.

Advisory Board

Amy Adler

Associate Professor of Visual Arts

UCSD

Mary Livingstone Beebe

Director

UCSD Stuart Collection

Kathleen McCormick

Principle Architectural Designer

Smith + Others

Ernie Silva

Professor of Visual Arts (deceased)

UCSD

Armistead Smith

Principal Architect

Smith + Others

Erika Torri

Executive Director

Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

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Twenty four to forty eight hours after acceptance into the program, you will be able to pay the $95 certificate fee in your MyExtension account under "My Applications". Classes may be taken without being enrolled in the certificate.