Art

Program Description

Visual Arts studies include an intensive series of studio, art history, and general education courses that prepare students for transfer, professional work, or life-long learning.

The Visual Arts curriculum is designed around the basic skills and knowledge needed by artists preparing for work in the fields of fine or commercial art and also for those considering careers in education.

Degrees/Certificates

Merced College offers the following degrees/certificates in Art and Studio Arts:

  • Art (AA)
  • Studio Arts (AA-T)

See Degree Requirements & Course Descriptions

Career Opportunities

  • Advertising
  • Animator
  • Arts Administrator
  • Art Critic I Writer
  • Art Gallery/ Museum - Staff, Manager, Director, Curator
  • Art Historian
  • Art Instructor
  • Art Therapist
  • Cartoonist
  • Ceramicist / Potter
  • Film and Story Board Illustrator
  • Graphic Designer
  • Illustrator
  • Painter
  • Printmaker
  • Photographer
  • Sculptor
  • Designer
  • Digital Media Artist
  • Color Consultant
  • Fashion Design
  • Floral Design
  • Furniture Design
  • Interior Design
  • Jewelry Design
  • Landscape Design
  • Product Design
  • Sign Painter
  • Set and Lighting Design - for TV, Film or Web
  • Stage Design
  • Television
  • Textile Design
  • Typographer
  • Web Design

About Visual Art Disciplines

Visual Art Faculty

Name Position Email/Phone
Louisa Benhissen Professor of Fine Art louisa.benhissen@mccd.edu, (209) 384-6063
Alana Perlin Professor of Digital Art alana.perlin@mccd.edu, (209) 381-6592
Matthew Warner-Davies Professor of Sculpture and Art History matthew.warner-davie@mccd.edu, 
(209) 384-6060
Adjunct Visual Art Faculty