School of jewelry & Metal Arts
At the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts at Northwest International University, students are immersed in a dynamic learning environment where creativity meets craftsmanship. Under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry professionals, students develop their unique artistic voice while mastering both traditional and cutting-edge techniques.
The curriculum spans a wide range of practices—from classical jewelry-making and metalworking to advanced processes such as laser technology, kinetic mechanisms, mixed media integration, wearable electronics, and 3D digital modeling. Students also gain essential entrepreneurial and business skills tailored for success in today’s competitive design markets.
Graduates of this program emerge with a comprehensive portfolio that showcases their technical proficiency, design innovation, and professional readiness—equipping them for diverse careers in jewelry design, metal arts, and contemporary applied arts industries.
Programs are available through on-campus, online, and blended learning formats.
What We Teach
Transform your passion for wearable art into a meaningful career. At the School of Jewelry & Metal Arts, students explore a comprehensive range of techniques—from traditional jewelry-making skills to cutting-edge technologies including laser cutting, wearable electronics, and 3D modeling and printing.
Our curriculum emphasizes sustainable practices and the responsible use of materials, introducing students to eco-friendly methods and ethical sourcing. You will work with a wide variety of metals and gemstones, gaining in-depth knowledge of their properties, applications, and market value.
As you master both design and fabrication, you will be encouraged to develop your personal artistic voice and create innovative, expressive pieces that reflect both craftsmanship and creative vision.
jewelry Designer
Jewelry designers transform creative vision into wearable works of art. Often driven by a passion for design, aesthetics, and fashion, they bring originality and craftsmanship to the jewelry industry. Designers may collaborate with individual clients to produce custom, one-of-a-kind pieces or work within established companies to develop collections that reflect emerging trends and brand identity.
With a combination of technical expertise and artistic sensibility, many jewelry designers also pursue entrepreneurial paths—launching their own brands and showcasing their unique creations in the global marketplace.
This career demands both creative innovation and an understanding of materials, production techniques, and consumer preferences, making it one of the most dynamic professions in the world of art and design.
Metalsmith
Metalsmithing offers a fulfilling career path for individuals who combine creativity with skilled craftsmanship. A metalsmith masters techniques such as shaping, texturing, forming, and joining metals through processes like fabrication and casting.
Professionals in this field have diverse opportunities including designing custom hollowware, crafting jewelry and wedding rings, performing jewelry repair and stone setting, and collaborating with fashion designers on innovative projects.
Additionally, experienced metalsmiths can pursue academic careers, teaching their craft and techniques at the university level, thereby contributing to the development of future generations of artisans.
Bench Jeweler
Bench jewelers are skilled artisans who work closely with metal and gemstones using a variety of hand and mechanical tools. They employ torches for precision tasks such as joining, cutting, shaping, and polishing metals, as well as setting stones with meticulous care.
Their expertise extends to applying chemical treatments to enhance color and texture on jewelry surfaces. Responsibilities often include assisting with design challenges, fabrication, casting, basic repairs, and cleaning.
Common repair tasks include resizing rings, resetting stones, and replacing damaged clasps or mountings, making bench jewelers essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of fine jewelry.
Curriculum Overview – Jewelry & Metal Arts
The Jewelry & Metal Arts curriculum is designed to equip students with both foundational knowledge and advanced skills in artistic design, metalworking techniques, and contemporary technologies. The program balances traditional craftsmanship with innovative methods to prepare students for diverse careers in the creative industries.
Key Courses Include:
- Introduction to Jewelry Design and History
- Metalworking Fundamentals: Shaping, Forming, and Texturing
- Gemology: Identification and Characteristics of Precious and Semi-Precious Stones
- Casting Techniques and Mold Making
- Advanced Metalsmithing: Laser Cutting, Fabrication, and Welding
- Stone Setting and Jewelry Repair
- Surface Treatments: Patination, Electroplating, and Chemical Finishes
- 3D Modeling and Printing for Jewelry Design
- Wearable Electronics and Mixed Media Integration
- Sustainable Practices in Jewelry Production
- Business and Marketing for Jewelry Designers
- Portfolio Development and Professional Practice
- Programs offered through on-campus, online, and blended learning formats.
