Glaze Theory and Practice (Level 5)
Visual Arts
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Study the impact of heat on materials used in the production of ceramic glazes. Delivered online, this Level 5 short course lets studio ceramic practitioners explore the chemistry of materials and take control of finishing processes through glaze design and firing.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
It will take a total of 9 months
Core skills this course teaches
Understand the chemistry of ceramic glazes
Demonstrate knowledge of the simple chemistry involved in the formation of glazes and how heat impacts raw materials.
Apply various finishing processes
Research, select, and apply appropriate finishing processes and glaze techniques to ceramic works.
Analyse historical glaze types
Identify and experiment with patterns and chemistry in well-known historical ceramic glazes.
What You're Signing Up For
This short course introduces the theory and practice behind ceramic glazes, revealing the secrets of the firing transformation process and exploring the simple chemistry of raw materials. The programme covers the application of glazes to clay objects, kiln firing up to 1300°C, investigation of historical glaze chemistries, and allows students to research and apply finishing processes that are of personal interest. The course is delivered online, but students must have access to a PC, the internet, and a mid-high fire ceramic kiln for hands-on completion.
Course Content
- Basic chemistry of ceramic glaze raw materials and their firing
- Firing processes for ceramics, including temperatures up to 1300°C
- Patterns in the chemistry of historical glaze types
- Research and experimentation with finishing processes for ceramics
- Application of glazes to clay objects
- Materials sourcing (dug or industrially refined)
- Online learning combined with practical kiln work
What you need to know first
Open entry; must have access to a PC, internet, and a mid-high fire ceramic kiln.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Arts and Culture
Ceramics
Future employment opportunities might be
Studio ceramic practitioner
Ceramics artist
Art educator with ceramics focus
Art making for personal or professional practice
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.