A degree in art can open the door to many interesting careers. Students with
an art degree have a wide variety of choices, from hands-on work like painting
and sculpting to careers focusing on knowledge like that of an art
historian.
Because the study of art is so extensive, it’s important for students to
consider what specialty would be best suited to them when choosing a specific
degree to pursue. It might be helpful to research particular areas of interest
by talking to those who have acquired an art degree or even by taking a few
classes at a local art museum.
There are many specialty schools that offer two year degrees or certificate
programs, but it may be best to pursue a traditional four year degree at a
university. Many potential employers are more likely to hire someone with a
broader range of education, as opposed to a student who has focused intently on
only one small area of study.
One of the most interesting areas of art study focuses on studio arts. This
includes the creation of artwork, like painting, sculpting, and crafting pottery
or ceramics. More technical types of art are also included such as photography
and digital imaging. Students who have this expertise often choose to sell their
artwork from their own studio or through an art gallery. They might also work as
a photographer, in a music studio, as an art instructor, or in shops related
specifically to their craft like a florist or pottery store. For people who
prefer a more human touch in their work, a job as a police or courtroom sketch
artist or portrait artist might be an interesting choice.
The study of design arts is one of the most popular when pursuing an art
degree. Students seeking this type of employment can focus on interior design,
graphic design, illustration, architecture, and even game development. Students
might also choose to work in fashion design or marketing, in advertisement,
television, magazine publishing or web development. Opportunities in these areas
are growing quickly due to the increasing demand for high-quality graphics in
video games, movies, and television.
For those who would rather focus on the knowledge of art than its creation,
earning a degree in art history is a wise choice. With this degree, work can be
found as a historian, gallery director, art librarian, art buyer, collection
manager for a museum or gallery, art critic, or as an instructor in art history.
With some additional training graduates holding this degree can even find work
in the legal field focusing on artists’ rights or in law enforcement
investigating art theft. They may also work in government agencies working
with local and state art councils.
An art degree makes it possible for graduates to pursue an incredibly wide
variety of job opportunities. Whether students want a career in art creation or
its history, prefer to be self-employed or work in the corporate world, a degree
in art can make it possible.