Continuing Education at PAFA

Wednesdays, 8:30 AM – 11:30 PM (includes option to add afternoons, 1 – 4 PM, for full-day attendance—see description) 
Instructor: Doug Martenson
Fifteen-Week Open Academy Course (45–90 Hours) 
Credit: Non-Credit or 3.0 Undergraduate Credits (See Below)

PAFA's Open Academy courses offer CE and non-matriculated students the opportunity to experience PAFA's comprehensive certificate-level instruction on a course-by-course basis. Credits earned are eligible for transfer into PAFA's Fine Arts Certificate program. Note: Early Bird and Membership Discounts do not apply. For additional course options, please see Continuing Education's regular course offerings.

Students will learn the structure of the portrait, the history of master and contemporary portraiture, and the methods and materials oil painting. Issues of form, spatial concepts, color, and visual and critical thinking will be addressed, as students will be encouraged to develop a personal point of view in their painting practice. Individual and group critiques will be conducted. Course Modality: In-person.

Optional: For the full-day option (morning, 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM, and afternoon, 1 – 4 PM), this course is available for $2,900 non-credit or $3,600 for 3.0 undergraduate credits*. (Credit available for full-day only.) Select the course length and credit option with the tuition adjustment during checkout.

* See the policy guide below for information about transferring credits. 

Register by: August 19 
Materials will be addressed via PAFA's Canvas online platform (if applicable) or on the first day of class.
Please review CE's Fall 2026 Policy Guide, including Withdrawal/Refund Policies, prior to registering.

Notes: Open Academy courses are not eligible for PAFA membership or promotional discounts.

A minimum 10% fee applies to withdrawals, including same-day withdrawals. Students are advised to confirm their schedules before registering.