School of Fine Arts
Arts Education at PAFA
Fine Arts Certificate Program
The Fine Arts Certificate program at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is a three-year career training program designed to prepare students for entry-level professional roles within the visual arts and related creative industries. This comprehensive curriculum emphasizes sequential skill development, technical mastery, and professional readiness through direct, hands-on instruction in painting, printmaking, digital art, and sculpture.
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Continuing Education Classes
PAFA’s Continuing Education (CE) program is an inclusive studio arts offering for artists of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced creatives. Through in-person and online classes and workshops, CE provides flexible, high-quality instruction designed to support skill-building, creative exploration, and ongoing artistic growth.
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Shop Memberships
PAFA Shop Memberships offer emerging and established artists affordable, self-guided access to professional-grade printmaking, papermaking, and sculpture studios in the heart of Philadelphia. With flexible membership options, artists can work independently in fully equipped facilities while joining a vibrant community dedicated to contemporary studio practice.
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The Legacy of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts: Faculty Recollections
The recently premiered documentary, The Legacy of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts: Faculty Recollections celebrates the personal and professional journeys of six esteemed faculty members, Dan Miller, Jill Rupinski, Al Gury, Tony Rosati, Bruce Samuelson, and Michael Gallagher—faculty whose longstanding dedication and unique contributions have shaped PAFA’s legacy. Created as an independent study project by two students, Nina Byerly (BFA ‘24) and Raffi Zarzatian (BFA ‘24).
America's First Museum and Art School
As the first art museum and school in the United States, PAFA celebrates the transformative power of art and art-making. Through its world-class museum and school, PAFA nurtures and recognizes artists at every turn in their career.
PAFA is licensed through the Pennsylvania State Board of Private Licensed Schools and is a nonprofit institution accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Program structure and details are subject to standard academic and accreditation review and may be updated accordingly.