The curriculum offers an introduction to all of the visual arts professions offered by the School of Art and Design and helps prepare students to choose an undergraduate course of study. The ceramics program at NIU offers a diverse approach to the materials and processes with aesthetics ranging from functional works to contemporary vessels and sculptural forms. Class instruction includes: Wheel-throwing, Hand-building techniques, Mold making, Clay/glaze formulation, Firing. As a student in the ceramics program, you will develop technical ability and conceptual understanding as well as historical knowledge of ceramics. Through interaction with peers, faculty and individual attention, you will engage in research that leads to the development of your artistic expression and creation. The undergraduate ceramics studio is furnished with electric wheels, working tables, extruders, spray booth, glaze areas and a clay mixing room with clay mixer and ball mill. A large kiln room contains both gas and electric kilns.