Study sculpture abroad

As a sculpture student, you’ll learn how to communicate ideas and emotions through two and three-dimensional objects. You’ll develop the creative flair, originality, and technical expertise needed to shine in an array of art-related careers.

As well as studying the processes and masterpieces of established sculptors, you’ll experiment with different materials and tools until you find your own style and approach. Taking classes in woodcarving, ceramics, glasswork, digital design, and metalwork will craft you into a versatile artist with a vast skill set.

Studying overseas is a priceless opportunity to visit some of the world’s most famous sculptures first-hand. More than this, it’s a chance to learn from international experts, appreciate the influence of culture on sculpting, and have the adventure of a lifetime.

At the undergraduate level, most sculpture programs are offered as three or four-year BA degrees. However, if you take your degree in the US, you’ll likely study a bachelor of fine arts (BFA). Unlike traditional American degrees, BFAs have a more intensive arts focus and include fewer general education classes.

After finishing your bachelor’s degree, you might consider enrolling in a master’s program. MA degrees usually require one year of full-time study, whereas master of fine arts (MFA) programs can take between 18 and 24 months to complete.

If you’re excited by the prospect of conducting an original, academic research project, you could pursue a doctoral degree. PhDs can take up to eight years to finish, but most students complete theirs within four or five.

Although you’ll have theoretical lectures, you’ll spend most of your time in studio-based seminars, workshops, tutorials, and critiques. Some universities also arrange visits to galleries and sculpture sites, as well as guest presentations from field experts.

The content of sculpture programs varies from university to university, but most will include core modules in the following areas:

• Understanding materials and processes
• Collaborative and collective practices
• Traditional material practices
• Contemporary sculptural methods and approaches
• Self-reflection and evaluation
• Understanding the audience
• Research methodologies for sculptors

Throughout your program, you’ll have built up an impressive technical and theoretical toolkit. Your expertise will be transferable across countless creative roles, including:

• Sculptor
• Fine artist
• Industrial designer
• Art teacher
• Exhibition designer
• Community arts worker
• Conservator
• Art gallery/museum manager

Art scenes are notoriously overcrowded, so it’s important to do everything you can to get your work noticed. Entering competitions, exhibiting your work, and participating in work experience opportunities will help to attract the attention of future employers and clients.