Post-bac? Certificate?

[polyethylene]

My portfolio needs work before I apply to MFA programs and I'm trying to come up with ways to be in/near a class/studio setting in order to get work done- I don't have much in the way of formal training and only took two studio classes as an undergrad. Another key point here is that I'm trying to do this without spending an exorbitant sum of money (30,000 for a post-bac seems insane to me). So far what I'm thinking is taking classes for a certificate program at a place like RISD, Parsons or SAIC (I'm planning on moving in general so the possible location's flexible).

Any thoughts or experiences on the matter?

[leee]

If your portfolio needs work then you may be best to just take a year or two to totally develop that to your liking. schools want some one I think who knows what they want to do to a certain degree. you don't need a class to get things done, just set up shop in your basement, room, outside, etc. best of luck ! go see as much art as you can in person.

[steve5]

yea I agree. that's what I'm planning to do. There's also so much stuff on the internet if you're ever curious about a technique or a style or something. You can also take classes in a local art school where you pay by sessions. like $200 for 10 sessions or something or life drawing classes where you pay $10 per session. The SAIC/RISD or those big school certificate programs are too expensive, especially if you're gonna follow it up with an MFA from them.

Edited March 27, 2012 by nfrog

[ReallyTall]

I would have to echo the viewpoint that you should just work for a year or two. A post-bacc certification generally costs as much as one year in a Master's program. It's a rather steep price just to get a certificate.