AP and IB art courses are equally as valuable, helping you make a professional looking portfolio while preparing for college. However, both fill different needs depending on what you want to learn, so its important to know the pros and cons of each before definitively signing up for AP or IB art for junior/senior course selections.
AP Art and Design Course
What is it?
The AP course is a one year course for artists who are really passionate about a specific form of art, allowing you to focus in on what you’re really passionate about. There are three pathways you can go down if you choose the AP course: 2D design, 3D design, and mark making. 2D design is focused on illustration, digital art, storyboards, etc, which are good for those wanting to work in an animation studio like Disney or Pixar. 3D design is focused on photography, sculpture, ceramics, and anything that occupies a 3 dimensional plane. Mark making is focused on painting and realism. Throughout the course, you will produce 5-6 art pieces that will go into your portfolio.
What requirements do I have to meet?
Those interested in taking AP art and Design must have at least taken two art classes by the end of their Sophomore year (preferably two levels of the same class like Ceramics 1 and Advanced Ceramics), and you must have at least a B+ in both art classes to be considered. Also, it’s important to note that juniors don’t always get picked for AP art as seniors get put into classes first, then juniors. IF you get into AP art junior year, it is possible to apply for AP art again for senior year.
Wait, my Portfolio can be seen by the AP College Board???
Yes, In an AP class, you have the option to have your portfolio (that you will make throughout the year in class) shown to the AP college board for critique. Having your portfolio critiqued requires $100 payment by October; AP art teachers/ Mrs. O’Connell will be very clear about dates and times for payments! And, if you’re unable to make the payment for whatever reason, the school can pay the fees.
∗Something important to note is that you can pay this fee and show your art portfolio to the AP college board WITHOUT doing the AP art and design course, you can put together artwork that you have made in your free time and that can be your art portfolio.
AP courses are college courses taught in high school classrooms, IB courses are meant to prepare you for college
-Mrs. O’Connell
IB Art Course
What is it?
IB Art is perfect for artists who are interested in many different kinds of art, multimedia, and art history. You will be required to create art from a wide array of mediums and inspirations, as well as learning about influential artists. IB is a 2 year course, so obviously you have to get in for junior year course selections.
What requirements do I have to meet?
Those interested in taking IB Art must have at least taken two art classes by the end of their sophomore year (preferably two different art classes, such as drawing and illustration), and you must have at least a B+ in both art classes to be considered.
IB is good for early college applications
Since IB is a two year course instead of one, you’re guaranteed to make 10-12 pieces total for junior and senior year, but because AP isn’t guaranteed for junior year, its possible that you’d have to wait senior year to work on your portfolio at all. So, if you’d like to send your art portfolio to colleges/IB Examiners as early as possible, then IB might be the better option.
Your college portfolio shouldn’t just include work from AP or IB Art. Any art you do in other classes or on your own at home can make your portfolio stronger and show more of your skills.
-Mrs.Devita
Credits: Image by StockSnap on Pixbay
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