Curriculum and Courses

Curriculum

All Summer Immersion students enroll in two classes from the list below. When completing the application, students will rank their top three course choices. These hands-on classes explore the diverse disciplines available at Pratt and are taught by Pratt faculty using state-of-the-art equipment and facilities across campus. The courses are modeled after Pratt’s undergraduate curriculum and award 4 college credits accepted at most colleges and universities.

Students are in class four days a week from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Students should anticipate spending 2-4 hours each evening working on class assignments. Co-curricular programming includes guided studio hours with Pratt degree students who help with class assignments and provide feedback before critiques.

Commuter students can choose to attend studio hours or expect to spend an equal amount of time completing homework at home. Please note that some assignments may require special tools available only during scheduled studio times.

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NOTE: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through May 30. Enrollment is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, and some classes may reach full capacity. Please consult the list below to verify current availability.

The Courses

All PreCollege students are automatically enrolled in two classes. Please note that some classes require a foundation course as the second concentration.

Reimagine the structures in which we live and work. Develop solutions to a series of architectural problems through hands-on work; producing sketches, drafting plans, and building models. Students will gain familiarity with architectural concepts and build skills through hands-on lessons. Please note: Students taking architecture will automatically be enrolled in an architecture foundation course and cannot take a second concentration.

“I loved having Studio Hours. It was a chance to explore and practice independence.”
– Sofia B.
Summer 2024 Architecture Student

A young woman with light skin and long, wavy brown hair stands against a white background. She wears a white tank top with lace trim and a dark gray skirt. She holds a small architectural model in her hands, which features a modern, angular structure made of thin wooden sticks and translucent material, set on a sandy base with miniature greenery. She looks directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

A meticulously crafted architectural model of a modern multi-level home is displayed on a white surface. The model features an open-concept design with terraces, staircases, and landscaped green spaces. It is surrounded by miniature trees, a reflective blue water element, and small human figures to provide scale. The materials used include wood, foam, and transparent sheets to represent windows.

Explore the art of pictorial storytelling; combining images and text to create visual narratives for single panel illustrations, comic strips/books, and graphic novels. Investigate all aspects of this art form: from drawing techniques, lettering, and inking, to composition, perspective, panel sequences, and developing original stories. The skills acquired provide a foundation for creative processes such as: children’s book illustration, storyboards for film and television production, and animation.

“The PreCollege experience galvanized her. She came into her senior year ready for college applications.”
– Danny N.
College Counselor

A group of students in a gallery space examines a wall filled with black-and-white comic strips, hand-drawn illustrations, and colorful digital artwork. One student, wearing a black crop top and shorts, points at a piece while discussing it with another in a light blue dress. A third student, wearing a black graphic t-shirt and headphones, observes quietly. The exhibition space features a minimalist design with white walls and a polished floor.

Analyze how popular culture, media, and everyday practices shape and reflect social differences. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine how institutions and economic forces influence culture. Students develop critical awareness as consumers, critics, and creators of culture while experiencing NYC’s diverse cultural landscape through site visits. Students will learn to critically analyze why some forms of culture are valued over others and discover how engaging with culture—from books and films to music and social media—can be a powerful tool for social change.

Craft compelling written compositions. Focus on the fundamentals of creative writing while developing writing skills in one or more genres or styles (poetry, essay, fiction, writing for theatre, film, or magazines). Students will examine written language, voice, and the composing process through reading /writing assignments, critical reviews, and peer review/critique.

“I am hung up like a cross and ignore like
A Sunday paper, and I’ve never quite
Found comfort in observing the instability
In which you live”
– Matilda T.
Summer 2024 Creative Writing and Traditional Illustration Student

A classroom setting with students seated around a table, engaged in writing and drawing activities. In the foreground, a student with hoop earrings and multiple bracelets is focused on a notebook, legs pulled up on the chair. Others around the table are also absorbed in their work, some with laptops and headphones, suggesting a creative or design-focused class.

This class is fully booked for Summer 2025 and is not accepting any more students

Create both hand-crafted and digital approaches to the art of animation. From early optical toys, through drawing frame by frame on paper, to creating digitally composited layers of movement for a fully realized project with sound and color. Daily exercises range from traditional character animation to more experimental techniques, allowing students to foster their own vision. Students taking animation will automatically be enrolled in a foundation course and cannot take a second concentration.

“Pratt PreCollege helped me gauge both the level and amount of work I would have to produce in college. It gave me good insight into the college environment as well as experience with critique and grading.”
– Elli P.
Summer 2024 2D Animation and Foundation Student

Students sit in a darkened classroom or studio facing a large screen that displays a digital animation of a girl in a blue sweater with a distressed expression, surrounded by floating abstract symbols. The scene suggests a critique or final presentation of student work in an animation or digital media course.

A student with medium-length dreadlocks is seated at a digital drawing station, using a stylus to illustrate a character on a large screen tablet. The screen displays Adobe Photoshop with multiple layers and toolbars visible. The drawing in progress features the outline of a figure with long hair and detailed clothing. The environment suggests a digital art or design classroom.

Learn to create 3D images and short animated videos, by creating engaging narratives, characters, and environments. Using industry standards, develop technical modeling, animation, and rendering skills while applying basic art and animation theory such as color, composition, and movement principles. Students learn Maya and Adobe Premiere.

A classroom scene where students work at digital drawing stations. One student receives individual guidance from an instructor standing beside her, as they review artwork on the screen. Another student in the background works independently. The room is filled with natural light and equipped with multiple computers and pen display tablets, fostering a digital art learning environment.

Explore creative possibilities using cutting-edge digital tools. Students experiment with a variety of technologies including augmented reality (AR), AI/machine learning platforms, and interactive audiovisual experiences, creating portfolio-quality works. All the software used in the course is free and user-friendly, and no prior experience with coding is required.

A student sits at a digital art workstation, using a stylus on a large pen display tablet while wearing wired earphones. The screen shows a character illustration in progress, and the student leans in closely, focused on detailing. The room is softly lit, with another workstation visible in the background, creating a quiet and concentrated atmosphere.

Unlock your creative potential in Game Arts, where you’ll explore the fundamentals of game design and create your own prototypes! This hands-on course covers key game mechanics, narrative design, and the iterative development process, teaching you how to bring your ideas to life using industry-standard tools like Godot and Bitsy. By the end of the course, you’ll have built prototypes, including a digital platformer, board games, and narrative-driven experiences, while developing a critical vocabulary to analyze and discuss game design.

Discover the trans-disciplinary nature of fashion design. From sketching and illustration to crafting and creating, students will experiment with designers’ techniques and build basic skills in collection development. Students will be instructed in draping, patterning, and hand sewing in Pratt’s cutting edge fashion studio. Please note: sewing machines are not used in this class.

A student sits in a fashion design studio, carefully cutting a large piece of sheer leopard-print fabric with a pair of scissors. The student is focused and precise, holding a measuring tape along the fabric. Surrounding her are industrial sewing machines and ironing equipment, indicating a workspace dedicated to garment construction. Natural light streams in through large windows in the background.

Explore the aesthetic and craft of filmmaking through hands-on projects. Using digital video, students will produce short film projects designed to develop both technical competencies, and an appreciation of the power and creative potential of the moving image. Cameras and editing equipment will be provided.

Two students are engaged in a media production activity inside a classroom or studio. One student with long red hair operates a DSLR camera equipped with a shotgun microphone, while the other student stands beside them, observing. The camera screen shows a preview of the recorded footage. The setting includes a computer monitor and speaker in the background, indicating a digital media or film production workspace.

Translate the three-dimensional world onto a two-dimensional surface. Develop perceptual and aesthetic awareness and improve technical skills through the creation of fine art. Students will use different drawing and painting techniques, media, and subject matter to create a body of work with an emphasis on developing an effective studio practice and producing works to include in a competitive portfolio. Please note: Nude figure drawing is included.

“The experience of living and working on a college campus was very helpful in preparation for the real deal in a year. Having this experience, I feel more ready for college life.”
– Jazzy M.
Summer 2024 Painting and Drawing and Sequential Art Student

A photograph of an art exhibition showcasing an eclectic mix of paintings, drawings, and mixed-media pieces on white walls. A large pink canvas featuring surreal, cartoonish characters in bright colors serves as a focal point. Surrounding it are detailed charcoal sketches, colorful still-life paintings, and conceptual pieces incorporating text and collage elements. The wooden floor and bright lighting create a welcoming gallery atmosphere.

A young woman with long, dark hair and light skin stands against a neutral gray background, holding a large acrylic painting in front of her. The painting depicts a shattered plate on a tiled kitchen floor, with red sandals visible at the bottom of the composition. A grocery store bag labeled

Transform ideas into tangible forms. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the diverse world of three-dimensional art. Students explore various sculptural forms and techniques, gaining hands-on experience from carving and modeling to assemblage and installation. Through the lens of contemporary sculpture and artists, students develop their own creative voice and produce unique works of art.

“Learning from and talking to practicing artists helped me to further understand what it means to be an artist and how to go about entering that world as a job.”
– Oonagh M.
Summer 2024 Sculpture and Painting and Drawing Student

A young woman with curly brown hair and light skin stands against a neutral gray background, holding an intricate wooden sculpture. The sculpture consists of interwoven dark wood loops, metal figurines, and a suspended human face mask with closed eyes. She wears a patterned short-sleeve blouse and black pants, and she smiles warmly at the camera.

A conceptual mixed-media sculpture displayed on a white pedestal against a gallery wall. The artwork consists of a vertical wooden structure with two realistic, sculpted hands emerging from it—one from the top and the other from the base. The hands are connected by delicate strands of thin wire, resembling an intricate web. The piece conveys a sense of tension, connection, and fragility. Shadows from nearby curved elements add depth to the scene.

Immerse yourself in the fundamentals of art and design. This dynamic studio course, based on Pratt’s first-year curriculum, challenges students to think critically and creatively about visual expression. Through hands-on projects and exploration of diverse media, students gain a deeper understanding of color, shape, line, and movement, while developing essential skills for artistic growth. Please note: Nude figure drawing is included.

“The program taught me the importance of getting my work done in time and what I should expect from a job in the art industry.”
– Olivia L.
Summer 2024 2D Animation + Foundation Student

A photograph of an art exhibition space with a wooden floor and white walls, showcasing a diverse collection of student artwork. The walls are filled with paintings, charcoal portraits, and mixed-media pieces arranged in a salon-style display. A white ladder leads up to a ceiling fixture, adding an element of depth to the scene. In the background, another room filled with more artwork is visible, along with a chair near the entrance.

A black-and-white charcoal drawing diptych on beige paper, depicting two expressive nude female figures. The left drawing shows a woman seen from the back with her hair tied up, adjusting it with one hand while the other rests on her hip. A pentagram tattoo is visible on her shoulder blade. The right drawing features a reclining woman with a curvaceous form, her head missing from the composition, emphasizing the fluidity of her torso and draped fabric. The artwork has bold, gestural strokes, capturing the human figure with an expressive and raw energy.

Design for a changing world. This course delves into the power of graphic design to shape our experiences and communicate ideas. Master essential tools and principles—typography, photography, illustration, and computer graphics—to create impactful and memorable visual solutions for today’s challenges.

A student sits at a digital art workstation, holding a stylus and smiling toward the camera. The screen in front of them displays a digital painting of a flower, with the same image also visible on a phone propped up beside the monitor. Another student in the background works intently on their own project using a similar setup. The workspace includes large pen display tablets, keyboards, and headphones, indicating a design class.

Explore the creative potential of digital illustration for editorial and commercial applications. Students master industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator as well as learn techniques to produce professional-quality images. Through experimentation with drawing, scanning, digital photography, and photo editing, students develop a unique visual voice.

A digital painting of a woman with long, flowing dark green hair lying on a reflective surface inside a glowing blue crystal cave. She wears a flowing white dress and rests her head on her arm with a melancholic expression. Large, luminescent blue crystals surround her, casting a soft glow throughout the cavern.

A digital illustration of three stylized humanoid figures with stitched-together patchwork skin in shades of purple, green, and yellow. They have exaggerated facial features, bolts in their necks, and wear modern tank tops. One figure in the foreground raises a hand with mismatched fingers, while the other two pose in the background. Floating hammers surround them, and the background is a deep blue gradient.

Develop a comprehensive foundation in traditional illustration techniques. Students will explore drawing and painting, developing your artistic voice and learning to create compelling visuals for the commercial world. Through life drawing, experimentation with various media, and cultivating a creative vision, students gain the skills to produce professional-quality work. Nude figure drawing included.

“I really enjoyed my courses and I think I got a deeper understanding of art through this program. By fully learning the fundamentals I feel like I can build a stronger basis for my personal style.”
– Avani P.
Summer 2024 Traditional Illustration and Painting and Drawing

A student stands against a plain studio backdrop, holding two illustrations. One shows a woman playing a sitar framed by an orange motif; the other is a watercolor painting titled “Cream” inspired by Haruki Murakami, showing a person with flowers seated on a bench.

Two students stand in front of a gallery-style wall filled with colorful artwork. The works include abstract and representational pieces, arranged in a grid. One student wears a white shirt and the other a black T-shirt with anime-style characters.

Become a creator of functional and meaningful objects. This course examines the role of industrial design in meeting the evolving needs of our society and planet. Gain practical experience in drawing, model making, and design thinking to create innovative products that improve everyday life.

“The PreCollege Program helped me budget my free time so that I could complete the work while balancing my social life with new friends”
– River T.
Summer 2024 Industrial Design and Digital Photography Student

A person stands in a photography studio holding a pendant light fixture made of intricately cut cardboard pieces that surround a glowing bulb. The individual wears a white pinstripe shirt with rolled sleeves and colorful patterned pants. The light hangs in front of a curved white backdrop, with studio lighting equipment visible on either side. The fixture casts a warm light, highlighting the layered, ornate cardboard design.

Shape the spaces where life unfolds. Master the principles of light, color, materials, and spatial arrangement. Discover how to create interiors that are both functional and transformational. Students bring design concepts to life through hands-on projects in drafting, 3D modeling, and rendering. Discover how to create interiors that are both functional and transformational.

“Pratt PreCollege allowed me to step out of my comfort zone with different materials and ideas.”
– Chessa C.
Summer 2024 Interior Design and Graphic Design Student

A young person smiles while holding an architectural model made of thin wooden sticks and cardboard. The model features a geometric, angular structure with an open frame, along with miniature furniture and a multi-level tower. The individual wears a white short-sleeved shirt over a black top and dark shorts, standing in front of a plain white background.

A classroom scene with several students seated at large tables, actively working on art and architecture projects. The room is filled with sketchbooks, cutting tools, rulers, and small-scale models. The back wall is lined with large brown paper art pieces, including abstract figures, floral designs, and textured mixed-media works. The space is bright and filled with creative energy.

This class is fully booked for Summer 2025 and is not accepting any more students

Push the boundaries of form and function. This course is an introduction to basic, direct metal, fabrication techniques for metal objects and wearable art pieces. Students will research and develop design concepts and execute finished pieces using non-ferrous metals combined with alternative materials and current technology.

“There’s a big difference between highschool and college; you’re thrown out into an environment where you’re expected to be an adult. PreCollege is a safe space to explore that change.”
– Shauna Burke
Jewelry / Metal Arts Faculty

A group of students in a metalworking or jewelry studio receive hands-on instruction from a teacher operating a large industrial press. The students wear safety gear, including face shields and goggles, while observing and assisting. The space is filled with heavy machinery, metalworking tools, and ventilation systems, creating a busy, workshop environment. One student holds a rod while the instructor carefully demonstrates the machine’s function.

Capture life in the moment. Students study 35mm camera operations, lighting techniques, and darkroom procedures to achieve a broad-based knowledge of black and white photography. Instruction includes exposing and developing film, making contact prints, enlarging and finishing photographs. Students are required to provide their own 35mm camera for this course.

“I think this was truly one of the best times in my life.”
– Chloe M.
Summer 2023 Analog Photography and Graphic Design Student

A young woman with long, wavy auburn hair and light skin stands in front of a white exhibition wall covered in black-and-white photographs. She wears a light gray, textured sweater and carries a black shoulder bag. She smiles brightly at the camera. The photographs on the wall are arranged in a collage-like format, featuring portraits, urban scenes, and candid moments. A red frame highlights two specific images, adding a striking contrast to the monochromatic display.

Develop a comprehensive introduction to digital imaging. Learn to capture and edit impactful images using industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Explore key concepts in art and design while developing a strong foundation in image manipulation techniques. Students are required to provide their own digital camera for this course.

Curriculum and Courses

Curriculum

The Courses

Architecture

Comic Book / Sequential Art

Cultural Studies

Creative Writing

Digital Arts: 2D Animation

Digital Arts: 3D Animation

Digital Arts: Art and Technology

Digital Arts: Game Arts

Fashion Design

Film/Video

Fine Arts: Painting and Drawing

Fine Arts: Sculpture

Foundation Art

Graphic Design

Illustration: Digital

Illustration: Traditional

Industrial Design

Interior Design

Jewelry / Metal Arts

Photography: Analog

Photography: Digital