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Which is better for Graphic Design majors - Bachelors in Fine Arts vs Bachelors in Arts degree

I am looking at a variety of colleges with graphic design programs. Some offer Bachelors in Fine Arts while others offer Bachelors in Arts. Does the degree type make a difference in getting a job when I graduate?

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Thank you comment icon A major in Fine Arts focuses more on the history and literature, while an Art degree is more about actual art and designing. If you are going into graphic design an Art degree would probably be a better option. These degrees will take you in two different directions, they're focusing on two separate things. You can be successful with either degree but it all comes down to your education and the career you want for your future in graphic design!:) McKenzie
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Diana’s Answer

Hello Rebecca,

I do believe classes can help you explore new tools for graphic design and also provide you some good examples of potential future work opportunities. Building a strong portfolio to bring to an interview will be very important. I am not sure you would need a 4-year degree to get a job if you have strong work to show. I believe it is more about the learning you would gain in the program versus the degree.

Best of luck!
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Sadie’s Answer

Awesome question, Rebecca!


The most important thing you can get out of a graphic design education is a strong portfolio! What I would do if I were you is: look that what each of these programs offer at the school(s) you're considering and count how many classes are going to directly contribute to your portfolio. The one with the most points wins! :)


"How do I identify this kind of class?" you may be asking.

Well, a portfolio-related class is a course where you will be spending your class time building a project that looks like a real-life graphic design project.


Examples of this are:

Package design classes

Brand design classes

Typography design classes

Book or magazine design classes

App design or web design classes

These are all classes where you'll come out the other end with a project to put in your portfolio.


Examples of classes that do NOT include portfolio contributions (but are still required) include:

History of graphic design

Principles of graphic design

Color theory

These are all classes where you will not come out the other end with a project to put in your portfolio, but you will have more knowledge about the foundational principles of graphic design.


Good luck, Rebecca!
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Darryl’s Answer

Hi Rebecca,


Another good question! The choice between a BA and a BFA will depend on what you want to study. For me, I chose a Studio Art BFA because it offered way more actual art classes than the BA program. The BA program at my school had a much higher emphasis on academics, and I wanted to take mostly design and illustration classes, so the selection was easy for me.


I would study the course catalog and see how the degree plan is laid out for each path. If there are no clear advantages to either one, then pick whichever allows you to take more of the classes that interest you. In terms of the degree mattering once you graduate, they're both viewed pretty equally. Ultimately, the knowledge you gain and the work you produce while you're a student will matter more than the degree plan you choose. Good luck, and have a great school year!

Darryl recommends the following next steps:

Carefully review the degree requirements for BA and BFA programs at any colleges that interest you. Take note on how the hours are broken down, and see how they line up with what you want to study.
Look for a graphic design program that will expose you to a variety of both traditional and digital art forms. Even though computer skills are definitely needed in today's work place, hand skills in disciplines such as illustration, painting, sculpture, etc. will never go out of style. In fact, because so many designers can't actually draw (or paint or sculpt), skills in these areas can help make you a more valuable resource once you graduate.
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