Bachelor's Degree in Crafts/Craft Design, Folk Art and Artisanry
This four-year bachelor's degree in Crafts, Folk Art, and Artisanry teaches traditional and contemporary craft techniques, preparing students for creative careers in artisan industries and cultural heritage sectors.
About
This bachelor's degree in Crafts, Folk Art, and Artisanry is designed for students interested in developing skills in traditional and modern craft techniques. It is suitable for those who enjoy hands-on creative work and want to explore cultural heritage through artistic expression. The program combines artistic design with practical craftsmanship, enabling graduates to work in various artisan fields or continue their studies in related areas.
- The degree lasts four years and leads to a bachelor's level qualification (EQF 6).
- It is aimed at students who appreciate both artistic creation and manual skills.
- Graduates can pursue careers as craft artists, designers, or cultural heritage workers.
- The program fosters creativity while teaching traditional techniques from different cultures.
- It helps students understand the value of artisanry in contemporary markets and cultural preservation.
What you study
The curriculum covers a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills across the four years. Early courses focus on foundational craft techniques and art history, while later years emphasize design projects and professional practice. Students learn about materials, tools, and methods used in various crafts, including woodworking, textiles, ceramics, and folk art traditions.
- First years develop basic craftsmanship and artistic techniques through workshops and studio work.
- Intermediate years introduce design principles, cultural studies, and project management.
- Advanced courses focus on personal projects and professional preparation, including portfolio development.
- Practical work represents a significant part of the program, with regular hands-on sessions.
- Students often collaborate on group projects reflecting real artisan challenges.
How to get in
Admission to this bachelor's degree in the United States generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates apply through the university's standard admission process, which may include submitting a portfolio of creative work. The program welcomes students with a passion for crafts, art, and cultural heritage.
- Applicants must have completed high school (secondary education).
- Universities may require a portfolio demonstrating artistic skills and creativity.
- Standard application procedures include transcripts and possibly letters of recommendation.
- Motivation for artisanry and craft design is important for selection.
- Some programs may offer interviews or practical tests as part of admission.
Day to day
During the academic year, students balance studio workshops, lectures, and project work. The schedule often includes practical sessions where students create and experiment with materials. Internships or fieldwork may be part of the curriculum to gain real-world experience in artisan settings.
- Students typically spend significant time in workshops practicing craft techniques.
- Lectures cover theory, history, and design concepts.
- Projects encourage individual creativity and teamwork.
- Internships or placements in artisan businesses or cultural institutions are common.
- Some programs may offer alternance (work-study), but this varies by institution.
Careers this degree leads to
Graduates can work as craft artists, designers, or cultural heritage professionals. They often find opportunities in artisan workshops, galleries, cultural organizations, or start their own craft businesses. The job market values both creative skills and knowledge of traditional techniques.
- Possible jobs include craft artist, artisan designer, and cultural heritage worker.
- Sectors hiring graduates include handicrafts, artisanal production, and cultural tourism.
- The insertion into the job market is generally linked to the ability to combine creativity and craftsmanship.
- Self-employment and entrepreneurship are common paths.
- Networking and portfolio quality influence career opportunities.
Careers after further study
These careers require a higher level of study than this degree.
Continuing your studies
After this bachelor's degree, students may continue their studies in related fields such as fine arts, design, or cultural management. Some choose to specialize further in craft techniques or heritage conservation. Others may reorient towards broader art or design programs depending on their interests.
- Possible further studies include master's degrees in arts, design, or cultural heritage.
- Students can pursue specialized training in artisan techniques or entrepreneurship.
- Reorientation towards art education or museum studies is also possible.
Where to study this degree (29)
Liste des 29 établissements
- Malone UniversityCanton
- California College of the ArtsSan Francisco
- Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond
- Hazard Community and Technical CollegeHazard
- Western Piedmont Community CollegeMorganton
- College for Creative StudiesDetroit
- Haywood Community CollegeClyde
- Maine College of ArtPortland
- University of the ArtsPhiladelphia
- Holy Apostles College and SeminaryCromwell
- Massachusetts College of Art and DesignBoston
- Columbus College of Art and DesignColumbus
- University of Arkansas at Little RockLittle Rock
- Montserrat College of ArtBeverly
- Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community CollegeHayward
- Hocking CollegeNelsonville
- Buffalo State UniversityBuffalo
- Maryland Institute College of ArtBaltimore
- University of Alaska SoutheastJuneau
- Kent State University at KentKent
- University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignUrbana
- Bemidji State UniversityBemidji
- University of New Mexico-Valencia County CampusLos Lunas
- Pacific Northwest College of ArtPortland
- University of BaltimoreBaltimore
- Yuba CollegeMarysville
- SUNY Corning Community CollegeCorning
- Kutztown UniversityKutztown
- University of New Mexico-Taos CampusRanchos de Taos
Frequently asked questions
What kind of skills will I learn in this program?
You will learn both practical craftsmanship skills and creative design techniques. The program also teaches about folk art traditions and cultural heritage.
Is previous experience in crafts necessary to apply?
While not always required, having some experience or a portfolio showcasing your creativity can improve your chances of admission.
Can I work while studying this degree?
The program involves many hands-on workshops and projects, so balancing work can be challenging. Some institutions may offer part-time options.
Are internships part of the curriculum?
Yes, many programs include internships or practical placements to help students gain real-world experience in artisan environments.
What jobs can I get after graduation?
Graduates often work as craft artists, designers, or in cultural heritage sectors. Self-employment and running artisan businesses are common.
Can I continue my studies after this bachelor's degree?
Yes, you can pursue master's degrees in arts, design, or cultural heritage, or specialize further in artisan techniques.
Is this degree recognized internationally?
As a bachelor's degree from the US, it is generally recognized internationally, but specific recognition depends on the country and institution.
Does this program include digital design tools?
Some courses may introduce digital tools for design, but the focus remains on traditional and manual craft techniques.


























