Bachelor in Fine and Studio Art

Students who want to pursue an art-related career  should consider  taking up a bachelor's program in fine arts to improve their skills and gain knowledge in this area of study. The bachelor of fine arts provides students with a chance to acquire knowledge in graphic design, illustration, photography, and interior design. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the employment of graphic designers and photographers is projected to grow by 7% during 2012 to 2022.

Graphic designers use a number of tools and technologies to bring concepts and ideas to life. They combine art and technology to communicate ideas through images and the layout of websites and printed pages. Photographers capture pictures of various events and places. Some specialize in wedding photography while others have expertise in capturing images for scientific purposes. Artists such as painters use various mediums such as oil paints or pastels to express ideas for personal expression or for commercial purposes.

Bachelor of Fine Arts Program
The bachelor of fine arts may take four years to complete. The enrollment status of the candidates may determine the precise program duration. In this program, students get a chance to take a number of creative and artistic courses. They may learn about basic drawing, painting as well as design techniques. By enrolling in this degree, students may gain expertise in various forms of arts such as design, painting and illustration, design and printmaking.

To enroll in the BA studio art program, candidates need to hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent. They may also have to appear for an interview and show their work portfolio. Some programs require candidates to complete an internship or a field experience in the fine arts. Other admission factors may vary by school.

Coursework
The curriculum in fine arts programs may include topics such as drawing, sculpting, and designing. Students can also pursue courses in digital photojournalism, arts, game design, printmaking, video and animation production as well as photography.

Online Bachelor of Fine Arts
In addition to the campus-based institutes, some online schools also offer the bachelor's degree in fine arts. The web-based programs allow students to study from any location and complete the degree at their own pace. These programs are particularly suitable for working adults who want to switch careers as well as stay-at-home parents who want to acquire skills in the arts and related subject without giving up on their current jobs.  

Some schools also offer the bachelor of fine arts in hybrid format, allowing students to take some courses in traditional settings and others in online classrooms.

To participate in an online program in fine arts, students must have an internet connection and a computer. They may also need software such as Flash and Photoshop.

Job Opportunities
Students who hold the bachelor's degree in fine arts may become  graphic designers, photographers or painters. Some go on to become interior designers while others pursue careers as sculptors or illustrators.

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for graphic designers in 2012 was $44,150 and the median hourly wage for photographers was $13.70.

Sources:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/craft-and-fine-artists.htm#tab-5