Preguntas frecuentes

Common Questions (& Answers)

How does the diploma program work?

Students in both diploma programs take a minimum of fourteen required and elective courses in one and two-week sessions. These courses cover the foundations of bookbinding and conservation practice and introduce specialized techniques in structure and design. Students are also required to complete ten bindings or projects in class during the above courses and ten more projects/bindings at home. Diploma students receive several benefits during their education, including priority registration, reduced cancellation and transfer fees, monthly student meetings, and ongoing support from a faculty mentor. Once a student has completed all necessary coursework and homework and has been approved by the Program Director, they have one year to complete their Diploma Project. This project is judged by an independent panel of bookbinders/conservators. If the student’s work is judged proficient, the diploma is awarded at that year’s Guild of Bookworkers Standards of Excellence conference.

Can I still take courses without pursuing a diploma?

Absolutely! Our courses are open to any student, provided they meet the prerequisites. Many of our courses, especially master courses, provide professional development and advanced education for practicing binders and conservators. We welcome everyone interested in bookbinding and book conservation to explore our courses and find what study best suits them.

How long will it take to get a diploma?

Short answer: Time varies from student to student, but the diploma can be reasonably completed in 5-7 years.
Long answer: To fulfill the diploma course requirements, each student is required to take a minimum of fourteen courses (nineteen weeks). There is no limit to the number of courses that a student can take per year, and there is no required number of courses per year, so the pace of work is up to each individual student. At least ten in-class bindings/projects must be completed during these required courses. Students can find more information about in-class bindings and projects in the individual course descriptions. In addition to in-class work, students are required to complete at least ten at-home bindings/projects before they can complete their diploma year. Again, the pace of the work is up to the student. If a student takes two courses a year (3-4 weeks) and completes two projects/bindings a year, the required courses and homework could be completed in 5-6 years. Once coursework and homework are complete, the student, with the Program Director’s approval, would begin their final diploma projects. No coursework is required during this year, but students will have one year to complete their work before it is judged and a diploma is awarded.

I want to get a diploma! Where do I start?

Students must take both Fundamentals of Fine Binding (formerly Fundamentals of Full Leather Binding) and Fundamentals of Traditional Binding (formerly Fundamentals of Half Leather) before declaring their intention to complete a diploma. Students are welcome to take any number of courses before declaring their intention to pursue a diploma as long as they meet the prerequisites. A full list of courses can be found on our website.

How much does the diploma cost?

Tuition and fees for a full diploma cost approximately $20,000-24,000. Housing is difficult to estimate and subject to change, but the total cost of student housing is approximately $12,000-15,000 for a private room. Additional costs include travel, food, and the cost of materials and equipment for at-home work. Financial aid and scholarships are available to students throughout their time with AAB.

I’m already proficient in a particular area of bookbinding/conservation. Can I test out of courses for my diploma?

Students with experience in one of the required courses are welcome to test out by sending photos of their work to AAB faculty. Each diploma requires nineteen weeks of courses at minimum, so if a student tests out of a required course, they will replace it with an elective course.

Does AAB accept transfer credits?

AAB does not accept transfer credit, nor does credit for our courses transfer to other institutions.

Can I get financial aid?

AAB offers the opportunity to apply for scholarships and tuition assistance to all students, whether or not they are part of the diploma program. Specific guidelines and qualifications for financial aid can be found on our website. We cannot accept funds from federal grant programs such as Pell Grants.