Art History, Criticism and Conservation

“Art” covers a broad range of topics, from landscape architecture to art education, from fashion design to game and interactive media design. In general, arts majors prepare individuals to succeed as creative artists. The first step in choosing what type of art major to pursue is figuring out where you want to end up. Broad categories include fashion/textiles, graphic design, spatial design, 3D product design, digital/multimedia, photography, fine art, and arranging/display. Majoring in art can also translate to organization and people management, such as becoming an Art Therapist, Private Art Instructor, or Artist Agent. Art degrees are offered at every level, and many can be completed online.

Baccalaureate

The two most popular degree levels are a Bachelor’s in Art or a Bachelor’s in Fine Art — the difference may only be one word, but can mean a lot. A BA is considered a generalist degree in liberal arts education. The general curriculum tends to include the integration of art and design, art history, art and new media, as well as intermediate visual studies.

A BFA, as defined by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), specifies a focus and expertise in one or more artistic mediums. Fine/Studio Arts involves a heavy course load inside of a studio practicing a focalized art.

Options include painting, printmaking, woodwork, sculpture, animation, illustration, and more. Possible career paths for Fine/Studio Arts majors include: Artist, Art Teacher, Art Therapist, Illustrator, Graphic Artist, Art Critic, Cartoonist, Curator, Greeting Card Artists, Sculptor, Painter, Art Gallery Owner. Nationally, the starting salary for a Fine/Studio Art major is $32,000.

Commercial art, sometimes known as advertising art, uses artistic means to promote, narrate, or inform. Color theory, drawing, graphic design, and typography are career uses for commercial art, while the ability to use computer software programs are usually essential in this field.

Graphic design is one of the most popular uses of commercial art and has an entry-level salary of $40,000.

Master or Master of Fine Art

A Master of Art or Master of Fine Art are both options for postgraduate education, as well as doctoral degrees. MAs are typically more scholarly and academic, while MFAs are terminal professional degrees that qualify graduates to teach at the university level. MFAs focus on deepening an artist strengths, whereas a PhD in the Arts often signifies a commitment to academia.  

Career options for graduates majoring in the arts include: Craft Artists, Graphic Designers, Fine Artists (Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators), Multimedia Artists, Museum Technicians and Curators, and Archivists.

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Colleges

University of Northwestern-St Paul

University of Northwestern - St. Paul is a Christian, liberal arts university established north of St. Paul in the town of Roseville. Along with traditional coursework, undergraduate students at UNW are also required to attend a daily chapel program...

“…

Northwestern offers a myriad of opportunities to learn more about almost every topic if you take advantage of everything! From a wide variety of classes, to interesting clubs, the friendly people where who are always willing to talk about their...

” – L,. Wausau, WI
Truckee Meadows Community College

Truckee Meadows Community College is a 2-year institution with a main campus and four extension sites in Reno. TMCC is home to academic divisions in Liberal Arts, Sciences, Business & Social Sciences, and Technical Sciences. In addition to its...

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I had dreams of going to a giant college. In my senior year I destroyed my chances by failing math. I was devastated. TMCC was really my only option. My first day I walked in with the attitude of pessimism and negativism. I was so so surprised by the...

” – Jacob from Sparks, NV
Kansas City Art Institute

The Kansas City Art Institute is a private school of fine arts and design based in Kansas City, Missouri. KCAI primarily promotes a learn-by-doing program with their professional, studio-oriented majors, such as Creative Writing, Sculpture, and...

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The teachers are really into their work. The love the subjects they teach and thus I feel like I'm really learning a lot about the subjects. Everything is clear and straight to the point, yet very in depth.

” – Britney from Hannibal, MO
William Paterson University of New Jersey

Founded in 1855, William Paterson University of New Jersey is 4-year public school in northern New Jersey. Set on a 370-acre wooded campus, William Paterson is home to colleges of Arts & Communication, Business, Education, Science, and Humanities...

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William Paterson University offers an education of tremendous value in a learning community that is committed to providing academic excellence.

” – Deziree from Paterson, NJ
Flagler College
Saint Augustine, FL
Flagler College

Located on the site of a former 19th century luxury resort hotel, Flagler College is a private liberal arts college in northeast Florida. Flagler hosts schools of Business, Creative Arts, and Humanities conferring undergraduate degrees in 35 academic...

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At Flagler the classes are so small, and the students to teacher ratio makes sure that you have that intimate relationship where you can gain more knowledge. The teachers are always willing to help you and they all want to make sure you succeed. They...

” – Amy from Saint Augustine , FL
The University of the South

Sewanee, The University of the South, is a 4-year liberal arts college in south central Tennessee. Operated by the dioceses of the Episcopal Church, Sewanee offers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors. In addition, Swanee holds a partnership with...

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The classes here challenge me greatly. In high school I got A's with little to no studying, especially my freshman and sophomore years. This is only my first semester here and I only have one A the last time I checked (everything else is a B...

” – Alisha from Knoxville, TN
CUNY Lehman College

CUNY Lehman College is a public institution affiliated with the City University of New York system and based in the Bronx neighborhood of New York City. The school offers a comprehensive liberal arts curriculum. Lehman College is part of the College...

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This is a truly beautiful campus that somehow makes you think you are way out of the city. And...only a street away from the #4 Subway and 3 away from the D. It offers such a wide variety of programs and degrees: the arts, sciences, humanities...

” – Ahamed from Elmhurst, NY
Bard College at Simon's Rock

Bard College at Simon's Rock is an early college with “more selective” admissions where high school students can enroll before graduation. The average age at entry is 16. Simon’s Rock is based in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, and provides a...

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Even though it is the most stress a person can endure, any amount of time at this school is worth it. The professors are incredible and have so much wisdom to share. The community of students also makes every class a unique experience.

” – Andro
Aquinas College

Founded in 1886 by the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, Aquinas College is a Catholic liberal arts college in western Michigan. Aquinas offers undergraduate degrees in over 100 fields of study including the first Sustainable Business program in the...

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The teachers here are really focused on helping students learn and are always open to discuss any problems you have. Also, the classes are stimulating and very interesting. Classes are small and everyone knows each other in the class and this helps...

” – Running Guy
Saint Ambrose University

A St. Ambrose University education equips you like no other — because St. Ambrose is a university like no other. 

 

Relentlessly committed to our students, we provide a private college experience that ignites transformation. We offer more than 60...

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The small student to teacher ratio will be great. Offer may different types of programs.

” – Jacqueline from Bartlett, IL
SUNY College at Potsdam

Discover a life-changing education in the shadow of the Adirondacks. At SUNY Potsdam, you'll be inspired by an unconventional community of teachers and mentors who will encourage you to pursue your passions. You'll figure out pretty quickly that our...

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The professors here are exceedingly helpful. They are always available by phone or office hours and show concern for your grades. They even cordially invite you and other students to their houses for smores and pizza! It's a reassuring feeling to be...

” – Patricia from Stillwater, NY
University of Akron Main Campus

As one of Ohio’s most influential public urban research universities, the University of Akron is home to five colleges and three regional campuses in Orrville, Lakewood, Medina, Ohio. Akron offers highly ranked degree programs in engineering...

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The classes are generally small and the professors are fantastic. After you finish your electives, all the major-specific class are enticing and exciting. I'm glad I chose Akron over a smaller school. There are tons of opprotuniteis here for...

” – Abby from Bellville, OH
California College of the Arts

Founded in 1907, California College of the Arts is a Bay Area-based school of art and design with campuses in San Francisco and Oakland. CCA is home to 22 undergraduate programs in core disciplines of Architecture, Fine Arts, Design, and Humanities...

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I am deeply passionate about art. I have been drawing since i was a baby, and my love for creating has only grown since then. My technical skills were sub par prior to attending CCA. In my first semester i learned how to draw, how to REALLY draw. it...

” – Matthew from Oakland, CA
SUNY College at Geneseo

Founded in 1871, the State University of New York at Geneseo is a public liberal arts college in western New York State and a campus of the SUNY system. Geneseo grants bachelor’s degrees in 50 academic majors and 27 interdisciplinary minors. With...

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Despite the frigid weather, the atmosphere at SUNY Geneseo is unparalleled with attention grabbing sunsets, rolling hills and a picturesque college town vibe. The academic program at Geneseo provides a diverse array of classes with professors who...

” – Danielle from Coram, NY
Hobart William Smith Colleges

With a campus overlooking Seneca Lake, Hobart & William Smith Colleges are liberal arts colleges in the Finger Lakes region of New York State that operate in a coordinate college system. Originally founded as separate colleges for women and men...

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I am currently taking a wide variety of classes, being a current first year. HWS has 8 required goals that must be completed for graduation. These goals help to broaden your horizon, while meeting your Major/Minor requirements. This school has...

” – Abigail M. W.
Austin Community College District

Austin Community College district is a 2-year institution based in Austin, Texas. ACC offers associate degrees and professional certification programs. High school students can sign up for dual-credit programs and earn college credit while working on...

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I have been learning a lot in my speech class, because I haven't had a speech class since the 8th grade. My teacher, Michelle Syltie, is fun and helpful in everything. However, my government class with Charles Miles is more of a repeat of all of my...

” – Erin from Austin, TX
Columbus College of Art and Design

Founded in 1879, The Columbus College of Art & Design is one of the oldest art and design colleges in the United States. With a campus adjacent to the Columbus Museum of Art, CCAD confers bachelor’s degrees in 12 artistic fields of study such as...

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I thought learning foundation classes would have been a hassle when I first came to the school. But after now finishing my first year I couldn't have been happier. Most of the basic information (such as color theory or art history) is really...

” – Amanda from West Chester, OH
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College

CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College is a public institution located in New York City. The school awards 2-year certificates and associate degrees in 15 different fields. Popular fields of study include teaching, community organization and...

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I definitely learned a lot from BMCC and this amazing college experience thus far.

” – Emily from Corona, NY
University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez

The University of Puerto Rico in Mayagüez is a state institution also known as Recinto Universitario de Mayagüez. Classes at UPRM are primarily taught in Spanish, and students are required to have a moderate understanding of English as well in order...

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This university has great professors, beautiful agricultural research stations and amazing architecture. It is in the west side of the island where the best beaches are. People are friendly and helpful, this campus is the best.

” – Laura from Puerto Rico
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With a campus along the banks of the Mississippi River, Principia College is a 4-year liberal arts institution in southwest Illinois with an emphasis on Christian Science. Principia confers bachelor’s degrees in 28 majors as well as an Individualized...

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It is one of the most uplifting campus' I have ever been on, because everyone understands the importance of Christian Science. The small size of the campus means that you get one on one time with all your professors, and they are able to take a...

” – Hannah
Long Island University

Named for breakfast cereal magnate C.W. Post, LIU Post is a private school on Long Island’s north shore and the largest campus of Long Island University. LIU Post grants bachelor’s degrees in over 50 academic majors. In addition, LIU Post is home to...

“…

LIU Post is an exquisite school equipped with a full recreational center, gourmet food, and a club for everybody. Like all schools the work is diifficult but there are upperclass tutors and teachers available to assist in any problems you may have. I...

” – Khadija from Brooklyn, NY
University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras

Founded in 1900, University of Puerto Rico-Rio Piedras is Puerto Rico’s first public university and the most extensive in the UPR system. The Carnegie Foundation designates the school as having “high research activity.” The Institute of Caribbean...

“…

A top student institution, that will help you develop your skills in a variety of ways. Provides a wide range of activities like sports, musical groups and night life for the students. It will present the student with academic challenges that will be...

” – Paola from Puerto Rico
Drew University

Drew University is more than a place to earn your degree—it is the beginning of a successful, purpose-driven life.
 
Choose from 40+ majors, 60+ minors, 18 Dual-Degree programs and 17 pre-professional programs. Every student graduates with a purpose...

“…

There is no doubt in my mind that I am learning a lot at Drew. This college is on the Princeton Review's list of top universities and top liberal arts colleges for a reason! The topics are very engaging and intense, and although I've had a couple of...

” – Eve from North Bergen, NJ
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College of Art & Design is an independent, nonprofit organization offering baccalaureates for women and co-educational degrees at the graduate level. Founded in 1848, Moore was the first women’s art school in the nation. The college features a Writer...

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I cannot believe how much I have learned so far at Moore. I must say that the first year is absolutely critical. I saw the improvement within the first semester. The teachers are great. They are all accomplished artists themselves, therefore...

” – Rachel from Clayton, NJ
Arts University Bournemouth

With campus a short distance from the English Channel, Arts University Bournemouth is a school of the visual and performing arts in southern England. AUB awards undergraduate degrees in 23 artistic and creative fields of study such as Make-Up and...

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Originally founded as a night school, Terra State Community College is a 2-year institution in northwest Ohio. Terra State is home to academic divisions in Business, Humanities, & Industrial Technologies and Allied Health, Nursing, & Human Services...

“…

I love it! The instructors are knowledgeable. The curriculum is up to date and valid.

” – Catherine from Sandusky, OH
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Originally founded to serve the educational needs of a large group of returning World War II veterans, Ohio University Eastern is a regional campus in the OU system. OUE grants 13 bachelor’s and two associate degree programs entirely on campus as...

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Ohio University-Chillicothe is the original regional campus in the OU system and the first regional campus in the state. Ohio Chillicothe is home to more than 20 academic programs and foundational courses for degrees offered at other OU campuses. For...

CUNY Graduate School and University Center

CUNY Graduate School and University Center is rated as a Doctoral University with Highest Research Activity and set in Midtown Manhattan. The graduate school is home to several research centers and promotes interdisciplinary research and...

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Just a few blocks from the Ohio River, Ohio University-Southern Campus is a regional campus in the OU system. OU Southern offers 30 degree and certificate programs available entirely on campus as well as the opportunity to begin classes in other OU...

“…

I am learning a lot in all of my classes so far, but I would have to say that the classes that I've learned the most in were General Psychology 101 and Math 102. The instructors made sure that EVERY student understood a topic before they progressed...

” – Brittany from Ironton, OH
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Ohio University Lancaster is a regional campus in the OU system located southeast of Columbus. OUL offers 12 bachelor’s degree programs on campus including Sport and Lifestyle Studies and Middle Childhood Education as well as the option to begin...

“…

I think the small class size is a great learning environment. I believe student will succeed in a room where they can speak one on one with their professor. The academic, as well as, athletic programs are very strong and are a great place for...

” – Mason from Pickerington, OH
Bethel College-North Newton

Bethel College is a private, liberal arts institution located in North Newton, Kansas, and is the only college in the state classified as a National Liberal Arts College. The first Mennonite institution founded in North America, Bethel has been...

“…

The teachers at Bethel are interested in teaching making it easier to learn. There are many majors with highly qualified teachers. There is a challenge to learn new things and people will sit down and help you reach your goal.

” – Orrie from Flagstaff, AZ
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Established in 1946, Ohio University in Zanesville is a public, 4-year institution located in Muskingum County and is one of seven Ohio University campuses and centers. OU Zanesville offers five associate degree programs, 13 bachelor’s degree...

Hope College

Hope College is a 4-year liberal arts institute located in downtown Holland. Hope partners with the Reformed Church in America but welcomes students of all faiths, as well as those of no faith. The liberal arts curriculum at Hope is threaded through...

“…

The academics at Hope are outstanding. Yes, that means the classes can be difficult and a lot of work, but the professors are all excellent; supportive, encouraging, and willing to help you out at virtually any time. They genuinely want you to...

” – Dale from Grandville, MI
Bryn Mawr College

Founded in 1885, Bryn Mawr College is a women’s liberal arts institution in the greater Philadelphia area and part of the Seven Sisters. Bryn Mawr offers undergraduate degrees in 37 majors and was the first women’s college to confer a PhD...

“…

The campus is absolutely beautiful. The academics are rigorous.

” – Mary from plano, TX
Concordia University-Montreal

Concordia University in Montreal is the best university in Canada under 50 years old, according to the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings, and among the largest, with 50,000 students. Montreal is the number one student city in North...

Franklin University Switzerland

Franklin University Switzerland is a small, international university located in the southern Swiss city of Lugano. Founded in 1969, Franklin was among the first institutions to bring American Liberal Arts education to Europe, and it is the only...