Jewelry

At Western Colorado University, our jewelry degree offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with an Emphasis in Jewelry, providing hands-on experience in metalsmithing, fabrication, and contemporary jewelry design. As a leading jewelry program in Colorado, this emphasis helps you develop both technical expertise and a strong artistic voice within the field of jewelry and metal arts.

As part of Western’s BFA in Art, this jewelry design degree in Colorado builds a foundation in traditional and contemporary metals techniques, including forming, soldering, stone setting, and finishing. You’ll explore both historical and modern approaches to jewelry design while gaining the skills needed to create original, professional-quality work.

Our jewelry program emphasizes studio-based learning, where you’ll work directly with tools, materials, and processes used in professional jewelry design and fabrication.

Through coursework and studio practice, you will:

• Develop technical skills in metalsmithing and jewelry fabrication
• Experiment with metal and alternative materials
• Explore conceptual approaches to wearable art
• Build a cohesive portfolio of original work
• Refine your personal artistic style and creative direction

Students have access to Western’s dedicated metals studios, featuring specialized equipment such as torches, polishing tools, and fabrication workspaces, along with guidance from experienced faculty and shop technicians.

Most professional jewelers earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Art with an emphasis in jewelry or metalsmithing. A jewelry degree provides hands-on training in fabrication, design, and materials, along with the creative development needed to build a professional portfolio.

Jewelry design can be a rewarding career for those interested in combining creativity with hands-on craftsmanship. Many jewelers build independent businesses, work with established brands, or create custom pieces for clients. A jewelry degree helps you develop both the technical skills and artistic perspective needed to succeed in this field.

Yes. Western’s jewelry degree program is highly hands-on, with extensive studio time focused on metalsmithing, fabrication, and finishing techniques. Students work directly with tools and materials to create completed pieces and build a professional portfolio.

In a jewelry degree program, you’ll develop skills in:

• Metalsmithing and fabrication
• Stone setting and finishing techniques
• Jewelry design and concept development
• Working with metal and alternative materials
• Visual communication and portfolio development

These skills prepare you for both creative practice and professional work in the field.

Western’s jewelry program in Colorado offers hands-on studio access, specialized metalsmithing equipment, and opportunities to build a professional portfolio through real-world projects and exhibitions.