Is an Art & Design Degree Right for Me?

Art and design programs prepare students for creative careers. If you love web design, painting, and video, an art and design degree may be the right choice.

An art and design degree encompasses various creative fields. When searching schools for degree options, you might find one program that explores several fields — or you could encounter an art and design department offering degrees that focus on specific fields.

Starting an art and design career often requires a bachelor's degree. But is this degree right for you? An art and design degree can be right for students who want careers that involve creating products and concepts for aesthetic or practical purposes.

Careers in art and design offer higher-than-average pay, and some occupations project fast employment growth. Below, we'll explore why choosing an art and design degree and starting a career in this field may be a good choice.

What Is an Art & Design Degree?

An art and design degree is typically awarded as a bachelor's degree (i.e., Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, or Bachelor of Science). This degree program consists of various creative arts subjects. Design and art majors might explore printmaking, digital art, photography, animation, or industrial design.

On the other hand, an art and design program may focus on one area of study within art and design. For instance, you might earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in design, or you could earn a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) in art education.

Master's degree programs in art and design are also available. While bachelor's degrees focus mostly on practical application, master's programs delve into theories, problem-solving, project management, and historical aspects of the field.

Now that you've learned the basics of the art and design degree, we'll look at what you can expect to study when you choose this major.

What Does an Art & Design Major Study?

Whether you earn an art and design degree or pick a degree from a school's art and design department, areas of study could include:

photography
video
web design
typography
art history
graphic design
illustration
game design
drawing
painting
visual arts
studio art
digital design
sculpting

The concepts explored in art and design programs can vary greatly. When looking for degree options, it's best to conduct thorough research so you're sure to study concepts that match your career path.

Art and design programs typically provide classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Students explore the technology and mediums, or tools, used to create artistic designs. Programs might also require internships or capstone projects, which showcase your art and design capabilities.

We've examined what you might study as a design and art major. Now, we'll explore why you should consider earning this degree.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Art & Design

An art and design degree lets students learn about numerous fine arts in one program. This is just one reason to consider this degree. Here are a few others:

Choose From Several Career Paths

The diversity of art and design programs helps you build skills across several fields. You can explore studio art, digital media, computer science, interior design, architecture, and so much more. After completing your art school program, you'll qualify for multiple art and design jobs.

Enhance Your Creativity

Art and design programs help students use their creativity professionally. They encourage students to use their imaginations and not shy away from experimentation. If you've dreamed of creating never-seen-before artwork, video games, fashion designs, or multimedia projects, an art and design degree will help you build skills to turn your ideas into real-world works.

Broaden Your Perspective

Earning an art and design degree can teach you how these fields have reflected cultural values and represented social and political issues worldwide. Programs also explain how other cultures define and showcase art and design. Enrolling in this degree program can broaden your artistic perspective and help you create higher-quality works.

Learn New Technologies

Technology is a major component of modern art and design. Some software, programs, and equipment you could learn to use include:

CNC routers
3D printing
laser cutters
augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR) equipment
artificial intelligence
creative coding

Become an Innovator

Art and design have been responsible for some of the greatest innovations of modern times. Many have been presented via artwork, technology, fashion, and education. Students pursuing design and art degrees are often encouraged to think outside the box. They learn how to make their mark through their own unique innovations.

Job Opportunities for Art & Design Degree Majors

Becoming an art and design major means learning skills and qualifying for roles in numerous fields. Career options for art and design degree holders include the following:

Amazing art careers are available across the nation and even across the globe. Degree programs often provide services to help students determine career paths that align with their talents and professional goals.

We've discussed the types of degrees, areas of study, and career options you can enjoy as an art and design major. Now, let's look at questions you can ask yourself to help determine if this degree is right for you.

Art & Design Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Do you have more questions about earning an art and design degree? Before enrolling in a program, be sure to ask yourself these questions.

What Is the Best Art and Design Degree To Get?

Choosing the right art and design degree starts with examining your interests and career goals. For instance, you'll want to pursue a graphic design degree if you love using technology to create visual concepts that communicate ideas to the public. On the other hand, a fashion design degree is the right choice if you want to create clothing, footwear, and accessories.

How Do I Know If an Art and Design Degree Is Right for Me?

A great way to determine whether an art and design degree is right for you is to look at the skills you'll need when working in the field. Working as an interior designer requires artistic ability, creativity, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and visual awareness. Industrial designers need artistic ability and creativity, along with analytical, computer, problem-solving, and mechanical skills.

How Valuable Is an Art and Design Degree?

An art and design degree is valuable to students looking for opportunities in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 95,000 art and design openings are expected annually from 2022 to 2032. The median annual wage for art and design occupations was higher than average for all occupations in May 2023. The highest pay went to fashion designers, special effects artists and animators, and art directors.