A Fine Arts degree provides practical training in a wide range of visual art forms: painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, and printmaking. Programs typically begin by focusing on the fundamentals of art, then focus on specific art forms such as drawing, sculpting, or painting. Studio practice and portfolio development are an important part of a Fine Arts degree. Where applicable, students also take on internships or apprenticeships.
Fine Arts degrees are available at the associate, bachelor, and master level. Associate degrees are often in Applied Arts, which Bachelor and Master degrees focus on Fine Arts (BFA and MFA). The associate degree typically emphasizes technical training, while the Fine Arts programs also offer a foundation in art theory and history.
Digital arts offer some of the strongest career prospects for Fine Arts degree holders. Visual arts training is essential for graphic design, multimedia, web design, animation, and other high-demand commercial art fields. In recognition of these career opportunities, Fine Arts programs increasingly offer training in computerized design applications and principles of digital and multimedia design.
Salaries vary widely across Fine Arts careers. The Department of Labor projects average growth for artists and related workers, but offers a rosier outlook for multimedia artists and animators. Art directors also enjoy strong prospects, with a median salary over $63,840, the 2004 median. Salaried fine artists enjoy a surprising $38,060 median. Multimedia artists and animators made an average $50,360 three years ago, with movie and video game specialists making nearly $20,000 more.
Fine Arts is a labor of love. But with the right training, artists can practice their vocation and enjoy a stable, comfortable living.
