Curtis
What ART degrees can go a long way and provide multiple careers?
I have been in college for digital design for 3 years but am not sure if that's the career I want. I do love art and want to continue that education, but I am struggling to find what art degree (s) can take you more places than just one. #college #education #art #design #degree
4 answers
Andy Wang
Andy’s Answer
Hi Curtis,
I wouldn't say that there is a specific art degree that is a catch all. My advice would be to make sure that you have good coursework in the foundations: design, color, composition, lighting, anatomy.
The art industry as a whole is continually shifting and changing so if you have good basics then you should be able to apply that to a variety of careers. As an example, I know of an artist who trained in 3D modeling and sculpture but now does concept art for video games. I also know an architect that now does concept art in video games (though most of his concept art is of buildings). Additionally, I got my degree in traditional media illustration but now work entirely digitally. And I've designed environments, characters, weapons, clothes, armor, user interfaces, and more in styles ranging from the Lord of the Rings and Dead Space to The Simpsons and CityVille.
Of course it's great if you've got a plan and know exactly what you want to do for a career, but life doesn't always cooperate with your plans. So it's best to have a broad, solid foundation that allows you to adapt to the many different opportunities that life presents to you.
Thank you for that information!
Curtis
Henry Ryder
Henry’s Answer
I studied an Art course called Contemporary Media.
This meant it encompassed interactive media, electronics, video effects, animation and whatever media you felt like exploring.
Getting some experience with code is only going to be helpful in the future.
I would suggest finding something with a technical element to it, get familiar with the tools and learn about the theory of art and design, as well as the practice. Many people make the transition from a technical qualification such as Engineering or Architecture into a more art and design role.
Developing a healthy attitude towards learning will allow you to pick up new skills more easily. This is a great skill to have in life & something I greatly admire, is the ability for people to adapt.
Best of luck.
Thank you so much!
Curtis
Darin Roodman
Darin’s Answer
There are several art degrees that can help you establish a solid and long-lasting career. Digital and grphic design are solid fields these days being used in many different venues of business from PR, to advertising, to video game design. Also, if you're more interested in the hands-on art types, you can look into rounding out your education in inking and sculpture because even to this day the best hollywood monsters start in clay. If you're wanting further advise, what I might do would be to get in contact with the art department at your local college to pick their brains to help you fine-tune what to degree would best suit your long-term goals.
Have a great day and good luck!
Thank you for the help!
Curtis
Yvonne Chen
Yvonne’s Answer
1. **Fine Arts**: This degree encompasses a wide array of artistic disciplines, from drawing and painting to sculpture and beyond. A fine arts degree can pave the way for careers in art galleries, art education, art therapy, illustration, or even as a self-employed artist.
2. **Graphic Design**: Although you've mentioned digital design, graphic design is a closely related field that presents a wealth of job opportunities. Graphic designers can find their niche in advertising, marketing, web design, branding, and more.
3. **Illustration**: A degree in illustration can lead to exciting careers in book illustration, editorial illustration, concept art for video games and movies, and even animation.
4. **Art History**: If you're passionate about art and have a knack for research and writing, an art history degree can open doors to careers in museums, galleries, art journalism, or academia.
5. **Art Education**: A degree in art education can prepare you for a career as an art teacher, but it can also lead to roles in community outreach, art therapy, or curriculum development.
6. **Multimedia Arts**: This degree covers a wide spectrum of digital media, including animation, video production, and interactive media. It can lead to careers in film, animation studios, advertising agencies, or game design.
7. **Arts Management**: This degree blends arts knowledge with business and management skills, setting you up for roles in arts administration, fundraising, event planning, and cultural institutions.
8. **Digital Arts and Media**: This field delves into digital art creation, including digital painting, 3D modeling, and animation. It's a valuable degree for industries like gaming, film, and digital marketing.
9. **Industrial Design**: If you have a flair for designing functional and aesthetically pleasing products, industrial design could be an ideal choice. Graduates often find roles in product design, consumer electronics, or automotive design.
10. **Fashion Design**: If you're passionate about fashion and clothing design, a degree in fashion design can lead to exciting careers in the fashion industry, including design, merchandising, or even launching your own clothing brand.
Bear in mind that the skills you hone during your art education, such as creativity, problem-solving, and communication, are transferable to a host of careers. Reflect on your interests and strengths, and delve into the various options within the art and design field to find a degree that matches your long-term career aspirations. Plus, internships and networking opportunities can provide you with invaluable experience and connections in your chosen field.