Seeking AFA in Seattle; evening classes?

September 27, 2007 10:22 PM

Is it possible to earn a Fine Arts degree in the Seattle area taking solely evening classes?

Thanks in part to the many positive answers I got on my question about going back to school in my 40s, I am now attending a local community college and taking classes towards an AFA. The problem is that because the school (Shoreline CC) doesn't offer some of the required classes (specifically, art history) as evening classes, it isn't possible for me to actually finish the degree there.

I've called around to several other community colleges, and so far I've found none that have a program which allows a student to complete the degree taking just evening classes.

Quitting my job, or finding a different one, as the unhelpful adviser at my current school suggested, is not an option. I make good money, and am working toward the degree not for financial but for personal gain. I hope to transfer to the University of Washington after earning the two-year degree and continue my fine arts education, possibly ending with an MFA someday before I turn 50...but I'm constrained by my conventional work hours.

So I'm hoping that some MeFite in the Seattle area will happen to know of a school in this area that does offer a complete evening fine arts program. North of Seattle is preferred. Thanks!

posted by TochterAusElysium to education (2 comments total)

The drawing instructor at NSCC (sorry, I can't remember his name!) is both very good at his job and a very helpful fellow. Call the school and find the guy, then call him and ask him for help. You might be stuck with, "take private lessons," though, so be prepared not to get the answer you want.

Have you tried Art Institute, downtown? They're kind of in it for the money and more graphic design oriented, but they might be able to shed some light on the local late-night scholatic scene.

I'm surprised that SCCC didn't have anything. I remember them being about 50/50 with day and evening classes.

Another, more expensive option would be Cornish College up on Capitol Hill. Lot's of rich kids go there, but they might have evening classes.

Finally, does the U-dub have night classes? More money, sure, but might be more convenient.

Good luck!
posted by Pecinpah at 6:21 AM on September 28, 2007

I spoke with someone recently who was taking classes online (and by mail also, I assume) for an art degree. I don't know where they were taking the class, but this might be a way to get your art history class.

It sounds like you want to transfer schools, but if you only need a class or two you might be able to find an intensive course somewhere, take it on vacation, and transfer the credits to Shoreline. Check on how they deal with transfer credits before signing up for anything.
posted by yohko at 6:40 AM on September 28, 2007