Art Schools

A background in art can help land one of the over a quarter million jobs available to today’s artists. Creative talent and an interest in art are the beginning steps towards achieving an art school education, but finding the right career goal fit is important.

Getting into Art Schools

There are several art school options when looking at a career in art including “career” art schools, a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in art depending on the desired career path. Each school has its own criteria, but the four most important things aspiring artists should have are a portfolio of work that has been created, previous transcripts, a personal statement and letters of recommendation from previous educators or professionals in the field. In the portfolio, prospective students should include at least 15-20 pieces that demonstrate creativity, a variety of media and any technical skills. An interview is usually not required for acceptance to art school, but if one is required a passion for art is a necessity.

Art Schools – Programs and Courses

An education in art can lead to a career in animation, computer art/design, fashion design, film, game design, graphic design, interior design, media arts, photography, visual communications or web design. Determining the focus of study decides the coursework that will be required. Most schools core class work will include some layout, web design, copywriting, design work and online media. The programs develop skills through training and problem solving. More traditional programs may also include painting, drawing, music, ceramics, art history or photography.

The time spent achieving an art degree depends on the program attended. A “career” art school is generally 12-24 months, a bachelor’s degree four years and a master’s program is an additional two year program. Accredited schools are granted status by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Schools that achieve this peer reviewed designation are seen as having the highest level of academic integrity and strength. However, accreditation is not required to attain an art degree and institutes that don’t have accreditation may have a narrower focus suitable to prospective students choosing a less integrated approach.

Top Art Schools

The top art schools are the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Rhode Island School of Design, Yale University and the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design according to the U.S. News and World Report. Art school rankings are subjective though and a good way to evaluate the school is by touring the college, speaking to faculty and previous students and talking to professionals in the industry. Ascertain the job prospects available and determine if there is placement assistance provided by the college. Tuition costs, focus and location are also important factors to consider when choosing the right college.

Art schools provide aspiring artists with the skills and knowledge to gain a career in art, but finding the right college to attain those goals is important. An individual approach is the best way to determine the right path to an art education.