Pre-College Programs
Pre-college programs are designed for high school students interested in developing their artistic, interpersonal, and critical thinking skills through a wide range of classes. Participants will learn with other creative students under the guidance of our acclaimed faculty at the oldest Art Academy in the United States.
Our classes help to develop strong traditional fine art making skills in combination with contemporary practices, enabling students to experiment and find their own personal voice. All students enjoy museum access, including the ability to study directly from artworks in the museum galleries.
Teen and Pre-College Programs at PAFA are generously supported by the Pincus Family Foundation, PECO, the Hamilton Family Charitable Trust, and FJN Charitable Foundation.
AFTER-SCHOOL STUDIO ARTS PROGRAM
You can build foundational art skills in a supportive studio environment through this free program designed for students from diverse backgrounds.
FIELD TRIPS
When you explore PAFA’s American art collection through a guided tour, you’ll build visual-thinking skills and connect classroom learning to art through engaging discussions and hands-on creative activities.
SATURDAY STUDIO ART CLASSES
PAFA offers dedicated studio art programs for high school artists, where you can strengthen your portfolio, advance your skills, and experience college-level techniques. For middle school students, visit Saturday Studio Art Classes for Middle School Students.
SUMMER ACADEMY
You’ll push your abilities in this rigorous four-week, college-level art-making program designed for motivated high school students at the nation’s first fine art school.
YOUTH COUNCIL
As part of PAFA’s free, paraprofessional after-school program, you’ll help shape youth engagement at the museum while building leadership and creative skills.
YOUTH & FAMILY PROGRAMS
You and your family can explore hands-on art-making, interactive gallery activities, and creative workshops that bring kids and parents together through imagination, learning, and play.
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.
Contact Us
PAFA offers programs for artists and art lovers of all ages and skill levels who want to learn about and make art.