Alvernia University and GoggleWorks Center for the Arts announced a new partnership Wednesday that celebrates the arts and provides students with a unique opportunity to learn in a dynamic and creative urban environment.
Through this collaboration, Alvernia University’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) will launch a four-year Bachelor of Arts in Creativity Program and electives that will connect faculty and resources at GoggleWorks’ factory-turned-art center campus.
The partnership represents a unique approach to education that recognizes the value of creativity, innovation, and critical thinking in students, particularly in real-world, interactive environments. The program will allow students to explore across materials and disciplines, collaborate with leaders and social entrepreneurs to launch businesses and gain practical skills for career success. Students will work alongside accomplished artists and educators who will provide mentorship and guidance as they explore their passions and develop their skills.
The program will incorporate hands-on learning experiences, internships, and project-based coursework to prepare students for successful careers in the creative industries. Students will have access to Alvernia’s current art programs and resources, as well as GoggleWorks’ ten studio environments, which are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and tools.
2D Studio Art: Painting, drawing, printmaking, and photography
3D Craft: Ceramics, hot glass, warm and flat glass, jewelry, sculpture, glass, woodworking
Digital and Integrated Arts: Graphic design, virtual reality, and makerspace learning
“We are thrilled to partner with GoggleWorks Center for the Arts to offer students an unparalleled educational experience that emphasizes the arts, creative thinking and entrepreneurship in downtown Reading,” said Alvernia University President-Elect Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “This is another example of how intentional partnerships through the Reading CollegeTowne initiative are driving innovation for our region while providing comprehensive educational and career outcomes to our students.”
The partnership will also offer students the opportunity to participate in exhibitions, performances, and events at GoggleWorks’ campus, which attracts artists and roughly 250,000 visitors annually from around the world. Students will be able to engage with the local arts community and showcase their work to a global audience.
“This partnership with Alvernia University is a testament to the power of the arts to transform lives and communities,” said Levi Landis, Executive Director of GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. “We are honored to work with Alvernia to provide students with a world-class education that celebrates creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Together, we will inspire the next generation of artists, makers, and leaders.”
