Degree Planning
Degree Planning
Planning your coursework early can help you move through your Art, Art History & Design program with confidence. Whether you are preparing to transfer, completing a certificate, or working toward graduation, understanding course sequencing and program requirements will help you make informed decisions each semester.
Because studio courses often build on one another and some courses are only offered during specific terms, students are encouraged to review requirements regularly and seek guidance when planning ahead.
Start with Your Program Requirements
Each degree and certificate program has its own course requirements, credit totals, and recommended progression. Reviewing them early will help you understand which courses build the foundation of your program, how general education requirements fit into your plan, and what to take each semester.
Students should pay close attention to prerequisites, course rotations, and graduation requirements when building each semester schedule.
See requirements, credit totals, and sequencing for every program in our department — the Associate in Fine Arts, our certificates, and our JAA transfer degrees — in the official course catalog.
Still deciding which program fits your goals? Start with Choosing the Right Degree before planning your course.
AFA Degree Planning
The Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) involves more sequencing than many of our other programs — studio courses build directly on one another, and the order you take them in affects your workload each semester and your progress toward graduation.
Before you start mapping out your semesters, review the AFA's specific course list below so you know which classes to prioritize early and where you have flexibility to choose electives.
Plan Semester by Semester
A strong semester plan balances required studio courses, general education courses, and your long-term goals.
When planning your schedule, consider:
-
prerequisite sequences for studio courses
-
fall/spring course availability
-
studio workload and time commitment
-
transfer deadlines and application timelines
Not every art course is offered every semester, so planning ahead can make a significant
difference.
Below is a detailed, interactive sequence checklist for the Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) — the program with the most course sequencing to plan around. If you're in a different Art, Art History & Design program, visit Choosing the Right Degree to review your specific requirements and sequence in the catalog.
When to take Fine Art Seminar
Fine Art Seminar supports portfolio preparation, transfer planning, and degree completion. Most students benefit from taking it after completing several studio courses in the AFA.
See What Course Work Could Look Like!
Review examples of course work from across Art, Art History & Design to better understand the kinds of projects, media, and creative approaches students encounter in different courses.
Questions About Your Art Program?
Have questions about studio course sequencing, transfer pathways, Fine Art Seminar, or choosing courses that align with your artistic interests? Meet with the Department Chair to discuss your academic goals and receive guidance specific to the Art, Art History & Design program.
Connect with Academic Advising
Academic advisors can help you review degree progress, general education requirements, registration planning, and graduation readiness. They can also help ensure you're meeting college-wide requirements while staying on track to complete your program.