Top Art Degree Programs

Find out what kinds of art degrees are available, how much you can expect to earn with each degree, and the length and cost of the programs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the creative field is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country. And with good reason: we all need creativity in our lives. Whether it’s coming up with new ideas at work or simply dreaming up a new recipe for dinner, creativity makes life more interesting and enjoyable.

But what if you want to make a career out of your creativity? How do you go about choosing the right art degree? What are the expected salaries for different degrees? How long does it take to earn a degree? And how much does it cost? Read on to find out.

Different Types of Art Degrees Available

There are many options and paths to choose from when considering a degree in art. Whether you’re interested in fine arts, visual design, digital media or any other form of art-related studies, there is an art degree that can help you reach your goals. Here are some of the most popular art degrees available:

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) – This is usually the go-to option for those who want to pursue a career in the arts. It typically requires 120 credit hours and takes four years to complete. With a BA, you will develop artistic skills, but also gain valuable knowledge about the business side of art.

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) – Different than a BA, this degree is more focused on fine arts and design. To get a BFA, you will need to earn at least 60 credit hours of art-related courses and pass a portfolio review. This degree provides the student with hands-on training in their chosen field.

  • Master of Arts (MA) – This type of degree is for students who wish to pursue an advanced level of artistic knowledge or career advancement. It usually requires two years to complete and can lead to higher salaries once you have completed the program.

At many universities, students may also choose to enroll in individualized semester schedules or flexible online courses if they are unable to commit full time or would prefer a different schedule than traditional classroom learning. Whatever your individual needs are, there is an art degree that can help you reach your career goals. Familiarize yourself with the different types of art degrees available and choose the one that best fits your interests and professional objectives. Once you have chosen an art degree, you will be well on your way to a successful career in the arts.

How to Choose the Right Art Degree for You

Choosing the right degree for you is a very personal decision. You should consider your career goals, artistic interests, and any budget or time constraints you may have when making a decision. Consider how much money an art degree will cost you, how long it will take to complete the program, and what type of salary you can expect with different degrees. Once you have these parameters sorted out, then begin researching different degree programs so that you can make an informed decision about which one best fits your needs.

Cost of an Art Degree

The cost of an art degree will vary depending on where you attend school and what type of degree program you choose. Generally speaking, four-year degrees tend to cost more than two-year degrees; however, there are several different degree options to consider.

You may wish to pursue an Associate’s Degree in Art or a Bachelor’s Degree in Art, both of which can set you on the path toward becoming a professional artist. If you are looking for more flexibility and convenience, you might want to consider an online degree program. These programs often feature individualized semester schedules and flexible online courses so that you can continue pursuing your dreams without having to disrupt your existing schedule.

Expected Salary With Different Art Degrees

The amount of money that you can earn in the field of art depends largely on the type of degree you hold and your level of experience in the industry. The following are some of the top art careers you can get with a degree in art and their expected salaries:

  • Graphic Designer – A graphic designer typically earns an annual salary of $44,000.

  • Interior Designer – Interior designers earn an average salary of $50,000 per year.

  • Industrial Designer – Industrial designers make an average salary of $64,000 annually.

  • Fine Artist or Artisan – Fine artists and artisans can expect to earn about $36,000 per year on average.

  • Animator – Animators bring in a median yearly salary of $48,280.

  • Multimedia Artist or Graphic Animator - With a median salary of $62,240 per year, multimedia artists and graphic animators are among the top earners in the art industry.

  • Art Director - As an art director, you can expect to make around $83,000 each year on average

No matter what type of degree you choose, it is important to research the salary expectations associated with each degree level before making a decision. Depending on where you live, the cost of living, and other factors, salaries will vary; however, those who hold higher degrees in art tend to earn more money than those with lesser degrees.

Ultimately, it is important to choose the type of degree that best suits your goals and lifestyle when deciding which art degree program is right for you. Consider all of your options carefully before making a decision so that you can get the most out of your education and career in the field of art.