Advanced Program Online Certificate

RISD’s Advanced Program Online is offered on a certificate track for students who want to expand their skill sets and portfolio. The certificate is designed for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who are planning to study art and design at college. All students who register for an Advanced Program Online course will be automatically enrolled in the certificate.

Students who complete the certificate engage in a curriculum that emphasizes learning the fundamentals of drawing and design through a variety of materials that can be applied in new and experimental ways. By understanding the fundamentals of methods and materials, students can more successfully visualize their ideas.

In addition to learning how to use creative tools, students develop the ability to research, iterate and evolve concepts that can set their work apart from the ordinary. Critical inquiry into contemporary artists and issues is fostered along with the vital ability to write, speak about and present your work.

The certificate consists of four courses: The two Essential Fundamentals courses introduce students to RISD’s foundational approach to critical making through drawing and design; the two Concentration courses include a discipline-based featured topic of choice coupled with learning to effectively use visual language. Students who complete the certificate are better prepared to develop portfolio-ready artworks.

Students who are inactive after one year will be removed from the certificate track; alternatively, students may request to withdraw from the certificate track at any time.