Andria
Is it more beneficial for an art student to attend a general university or an art school?
I'm looking to major in Illustration and just recently got accepted to a few schools; some just regular universities, and others being legitimate art schools. So my question is, is it more beneficial to go to a university that may offer cheaper tuition but isn't necessarily based around the arts or go to a more expensive art school that specifically specializes in providing an artistic curriculum and environment?
#fine-art #illustrator #aspiringgraduate
2 answers
Andy Wang
Andy’s Answer
Hi Andria,
You'e asked a very interesting question. Unfortunately it isn't one with one clear, right answer.
From personal experience I can tell you that I found going to a "general university" to be very beneficial both personally and professionally. I attended the University of California, Berkeley as an undergraduate studying biology. I later attended the Academy of Art University to pursue my Master of Fine Arts in illustration.
Having attended both institutions I feel that for me, personally, I had a much broader and more well rounded education and experience at Berkeley. However, I think that I could have been a better artist earlier had I gone to an art school directly. That isn't to say that I don't use my biology background to help inform my choices as an artist. Critical thinking skills, anatomy, and general knowledge all help to inform creature, character, and environment designs when I'm coming up with new ideas. In my opinion, having that grounded knowledge base makes my creations feel more realistic and appropriate to their settings.
While you will be around other artists with similar experiences and coursework at an art school, there is a great deal to gain from being with other people from different backgrounds and different goals. From my experience, I would recommend attending a "general university" with a decent art program so that you may learn from a much more diverse pool and then, if needed, attend a graduate program later even though that will take longer and won't really be cheaper.
I'm sorry if this is not that helpful or directly answers your question. You will have to find out what it is that you're looking for from your university experience.
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Thank you so much for your insight! This really brings to light a new perspective on the matter for me. As I continue to make my decision I will carefully take into account your feedback, personal experiences, and advice. Goodness, making these types of decisions are so difficult! Someone should really teach this to students early on; that you shouldn't just factor in cost, but the school's programs and overall ambiance as well to make a sound decision in the end.
Again thank you so much for your help, and I'm so sorry this reply is so late! I've been so busy weighing my options that I haven't had the time to reply
Andria
Katrina Carlyon
Katrina’s Answer
First off, you DO NOT need a college degree to be an illustrator (or any field as an artist) since most employees will be looking at your portfolio (demo reel for animators) and barely your resume (like maybe a few sec on average). I say this because most people who go to college are in debt and art college is no different. So unless your filthy rich, won scholarships, grants etc. then go for it. Other wise stick with online classes only like CG Master Academy, animation mentor, schoolism, or try looking up one of your favorite famous artist and see if they can offer a mentorship with you; doesn't hurt to ask. This is up to you but this way you'll save A LOT of money on the long run.
Another option is also watch a bunch of videos online that are free that would give you tutorial and such. But you would need a lot of dedication and effort on that. School and even online classes just helps keep you focus cause it forces you to accomplish it (since its your money and you dont want to waste it). So that is " cheaper" option to go with.