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 and courses. 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. College credit and college admissions portfolio building are available for the majority of the classes.
Saturday Studio Art Classes
Saturday classes in the fall and spring are an opportunity for high schools students to develop their studio art skills with the support of outstanding PAFA faculty while earning college credit. All levels welcome.
After-School Studio Arts Program
This free program gives students from diverse background the opportunity to develop foundational art skills.
Youth Council
PAFA's Youth Council is a free, paraprofessional after-school program that offers interested teens a chance to create a prominent place for young audiences in the daily life of the museum.
Summer Academy
Summer Academy is a rigorous, four-week, college-level art-making experience for talented and motivated high school students at the nation's first and premier school of fine art.
One-Week Summer Intensives
Summer intensive courses are open to teens of all skill levels who have completed grades 8-12 and provide a valuable opportunity to develop their skills under the guidance of stellar PAFA faculty.
Student Docent Program
PAFA partners with local schools to allow students grades 7–12 to train with professionals to become museum guides. Students earn a PAFA membership and develop critical leadership skills. This program is now virtual, enabling students to safely keep learning about the arts and leadership.