Independent Study

a spacious ceramic art studio with high ceilings and people working on their artwork, viewed from outside looking through the windows

Independent Study

The Independent Study opportunity provides studio access to qualified individuals who wish to use the studio without enrolling in an instructor-led course. This opportunity is intended for those who have consistently participated at an advanced level in the Harvard Ceramics program since our move to 224 Western Avenue in 2013 and have the skills required to process their own work and navigate the studio independently. 

Eligibility

To apply for this opportunity, you should meet the following criteria:

  • you have registered for and completed at least four Intermediate-Advanced level courses OR Independent Studio at Harvard Ceramics since 2013.
  • you have completed the electric kiln certification orientation and passed the test.
  • you are able to work independently in the program, navigating how to have your work fired and where to find space to store your works in progress.
  • you prefer not to enroll in a course led by an instructor.

Application and acceptance into the Independent Study program occurs before general registration, and those who accept a place in the Independent Study program will not participate in our new lottery registration. There are a finite number of spaces in the Independent Study program, reserved for those who have applied and been selected. 

Fall 2026 Independent Study opportunity 

Dates: 14 weeks of studio access from August 31 - December 4, 2026

  • Independent Study applications will be accepted beginning Wednesday, July 8th at 10 am. The Fall 2026 course preview is expected to be online Wednesday, July 8th.
  • The application deadline is Sunday, July 12th at 11:59 pm.
  • Successful applicants will receive an email from Ji Eun Kim, Administrative Manager, with a link to complete their enrollment on Tuesday, July 14th.
  • Payment for the Independent Study program must be made by Monday, July 20th by 4:00 pm.
  • Cost: $1,195 for Adult Community; $555 for Harvard Graduate Students; $150 for Harvard College Undergraduates, and $580 for TAP-eligible Harvard employees and $540 for TAP long service. There is no fee to apply for Independent Study.
  • If you aren't selected for Independent Study, you can participate in the Lottery Registration process from Tuesday, July 21st to Friday, July 24th, for a chance to register for a course. 

Application process: 

  1. Complete the Google Application form linked below.
  2. Upload 3 images of recent work to the file request link below. All images should be saved in JPEG format at 300 dpi. 

Please direct any questions or concerns to Director Kathy King at kking@fas.harvard.edu. 

Independent Study Application Form Upload 3 images of recent work