Foundation Year

Foundation Year

Grow Your Artistic Roots

At DCAD, we believe that the strongest artists understand and appreciate the value of diverse media. That’s why each of our new students takes part in the foundation year, where each student is encouraged to experiment in liberal arts and build essential artistic groundwork.

The mission of the foundation year is to strengthen each student’s craft through foundational courses that provide life-long artistic skills. For their first two semesters at DCAD, all students are introduced to higher arts education through a selection of courses from all disciplines of the arts. Through both studio and liberal art discussion courses, students receive a valuable base education in art history, drawing, design, and principles of the visual arts.

What You’ll Learn

Studio Techniques

Apply the principles of art and design to create works that visually organize form, space, and time.

Concepts of Design

Study the history and theories behind artwork that has inspired generations of creators.

Critical Thinking

Develop critical awareness and appraisal of artwork in a variety of media and processes.

Personal Expression

Experiment with your artistic style in a safe, encouraging environment.