Ceramics: Introduction to Principles, Processes and Practical Techniques
This accredited short course equips students with essential knowledge and skills to explore and demonstrate key ceramic design principles and production processes. Focusing on both practical and theoretical aspects, it covers material research, problem-solving, form development, practical workshop techniques, and effective communication, with an emphasis on creative & critical thinking throughout.
This course introduces essential ceramic design principles and production processes, blending theory with hands-on practice. Students will explore material properties, making techniques, and creative development while gaining a comprehensive understanding of contemporary ceramics.
Aims of the course
The course aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to explore ceramic design, from research and material exploration to practical making and presentation, while demonstrating a range of fundamental design principles and understanding production processes specific to ceramics.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Apply research methodologies to inform and support creative practice within ceramics.
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of material properties and making techniques relevant to contemporary ceramic practices.
- Communicate design concepts through physical making and visual presentation (e.g., sketchbooks/portfolios).
- Critically engage with historical and contemporary perspectives in ceramic design and making situating personal practice within a broader cultural and material context.
- Solve design challenges through 2D and 3D development, using hand-building, throwing, and mould-making techniques.
Course delivery
The course blends practical workshops with theoretical learning, providing demonstrations and hands-on experience in material exploration, design, making techniques, and creative development, all underpinned by group discussions and constructive critiques.
Learning methods
The module provides a comprehensive exploration of both the practical and theoretical aspects of ceramic design, focusing on essential skills and methodologies for contemporary practice. Students will engage with project briefs, material research, problem-solving, and the development of 2D and 3D forms. Practical workshops will cover hand-building, throwing, and mould-making techniques, as well as physical 3D visualization, creative thinking, and critical problem-solving strategies.
Workshops will take place on campus in our dedicated ceramics workshop and will include in-person demonstrations, one-on-one support, and critique sessions.
The module also integrates online learning resources, via our online virtual learning environment, Moodle, which provides you with course materials such as videos, reading lists, seminars and presentations, allowing you to continue your studies from any location. Emphasis is placed on creative thinking, material experimentation, and the use of drawing, sketching, and prototyping to support both research and concept development throughout the process. Students will need access to an electronic device and a Wi-Fi connection in order to access the online content associated with the course.
Activity summary
- Seminars - 5-10 students per group, 2 x 2 hour sessions
- Practical class or workshop, including demonstration - 5-10 students per group, 1 x 3.5 hour workshop and 11 x 2.5 hour workshop sessions
- Independent Study - 9-10 hours per week, total of 115 hours
Timetable
- Week 1: Monday 7 April, 17:30 21:00, 3.5 hours (Induction)
- Week 2: Monday 14 April, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Monday 21 April - RGU closed /public holiday
- Week 3: Monday 28 April, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Monday 5 May - Tutor not available
- Week 4: Monday 12 May, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 5:
- Monday 19 May, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Wednesday 21 May, 18:30 20:30, 2 hours - evening seminar/critique
- Week 6: Monday 26 May, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 7: Monday 2 June, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 8:
- Monday 9 June, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Wednesday 11 June, 18:30-20:30, 2 hours - evening seminar/critique
- Week 9: Monday 16 June, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 10: Monday 23 June, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 11: Monday 30 June, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
- Week 12: Monday 7 Jul, 18:30-21:00, 2.5 hours
Independent study
This short course is largely self-directed, with guidance provided from the outset. Learning materials and support will be accessible through Moodle, RGU’s virtual learning environment (VLE). The indicative student workload includes 115 hours of independent study, alongside 35 hours of contact time during in-person sessions held in our ceramics workshop. In total, you are expected to commit a minimum of 150 hours to the module, including the preparation and submission of your assessment.
Assessment
- 1 portfolio
The submission for this module will consist of completed 2D and/or 3D design project work, along with a supporting portfolio that documents all research and development efforts undertaken. This portfolio may include workbooks, visual diaries, drawings and visualizations, digital files, online resources, samples, models, maquettes, documentation, and any other relevant materials.
Staff delivering on this course
Matthew Wilcock is a ceramic maker based in Northeast Scotland, lecturing at Gray’s School of Art. Raised in a family of potters, he works primarily with traditional hand-making techniques, focusing on post-Arts and Crafts ceramics, particularly The Leach Tradition and its influence on British Studio Pottery.
Students who earn 15 credits upon completing this short course may apply these credits towards the BA (Hons) in Product, Ceramics and Jewellery Design, provided they meet the entry requirements.
Find out moreRGUflex
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
It is designed to support individuals planning to pursue an undergraduate course at Gray's School of Art starting in 2025/2026 or 2026/2027, particularly those interested in studying BA (Hons) Product, Ceramics and Jewellery Design
This course is suitable for beginner - intermediate level.
Required age
All students are required to be at least 16 years of age on the commencement of the course.
English language requirements
English is the language of instruction at Robert Gordon University. Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
For Academic Year 2024/2025
Fee-waiver places
If you are domiciled in Scotland, you may be eligible for a fee-waiver place, meaning you can study for free.
To be eligible for funding, you need to have 'settled status' in Scotland, with no restrictions on how long you can stay here. For example, this can be from birth or Right to Remain visa.
Eligibility is assessed on application and further evidence may be required.
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
Studio Fund
Students are required to contribute £120 per person towards a studio fund before joining the course. This fee helps cover the cost of essential core materials needed during workshops. While students will be provided with the necessary tools and materials for in-person sessions, they may choose to purchase their own additional tools or materials, such as clay or glazes, to support their independent study.
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with the Engage Team and we'll do our best to help.