Art

If you're a creative person who enjoys drawing, painting and other artistic pursuits, you might consider pursuing a degree program in art. Although this can lead to a number of career opportunities, art programs aren't for everyone. Continue reading to learn about the educational and occupational options available to determine if it's a good fit for you.

Inside Art

If you have a creative streak, you may want to consider becoming an art major. As an art major, you'll explore your craft by learning to work with different forms of media. Art programs are available at the certificate, associate's, bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. You can also take individual art classes, some of which are available online. Most colleges and universities offer art degree programs, and many schools are dedicated solely to turning out accomplished art students.

In an art degree program, you may paint, sculpt, draw and learn the intricacies of digital design. Most programs start by training you to understand the basics of color and design. You can select a specialization or a major in a specific area, such as photography, sculpture, painting, graphic design, illustration, animation, printmaking or fabric design. Each program has separate courses that train you to become a proficient artist in the area of your choice. Studio classes allow you to put what you're learning into practice and put together a portfolio.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that the demand for all artists would increase by 12% between 2008 and 2018, but that demand would vary based on the specific career (www.bls.gov). For instance, the demand for art directors and craft artists was predicted to increase by 12%. The demand for fine artists, such as painters, illustrators and sculptors, was predicted to increase by nine percent, and demand for multi-media artists, including animators, was predicted to increase by 14%. As of May 2010, the median annual salary for all artists was $58,840. For craft artists, it was $26,930. Fine artists earned a median salary of $44,850, and animators earned $58,510. The median salary for graphic designers was $43,500 and $80,630 for art directors.

Learn More About Art

Art programs are diverse and teach a wide variety of styles and techniques. Whether you want to learn about the degree programs available, online learning options or a specific career, Education-Portal.com has the resources to get you started.

Degree Options

Art programs are available at all levels of study. Many programs allow you to specialize in the artistic area you are most interested in.

Distance Learning Options

Some schools offer online art programs that allow you to complete your studies on your own schedule. Many distance learning art programs include on-campus requirements.

Career Options

Many careers will let you put your art skills to use. The following pages are a sample of the positions you can pursue, along with their academic and training requirements.

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