Performing Arts Degrees

Performing arts programs instruct students in various forms of art such as music, dance and drama. The ones who want to become musicians, singer, or actors can pursue degrees in this area of study to increase their chances of having careers in the performing arts, which can possibly be quite challenging and fulfilling. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that employment of musicians and singers is expected to grow by 10% from 2010 to 2020. Work for these artists is growing due to the increase in demand for musical performances. In the same way, employment of dancers is projected to grow 11% from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

If you have a flair for singing, acting or dancing, you can potentially use your skills to develop a successful career. Performing arts degrees can help you increase your chances of gaining popularly and a sense of career fulfillment.

Performing Arts Degrees
Students who want to become a part of the performing arts industry will find it useful to earn a college degree. They can work towards earning undergraduate or graduate degrees and hone their talents to potentially pursue multiple career paths in various genres of performing arts. The bachelor’s degree may be completed in 4 years while the master’s degree may take 1-2 years to complete. The exact duration of these programs depend on the enrollment status of the students.

The performing arts programs allow students to acquire integrated skills in dance, music and drama. They also learn on-stage skills. The performing arts programs comprise a core curriculum and general education courses. In addition to standard coursework, students can also focus their studies in a particular area within this field such as dance, film or music.

The curriculum in the performing arts degrees may include topics such as music performance, theatre history, dramatic literature, musical theatre and dance technique.

Online Performing Arts Degree Programs
Performing arts degrees are also available in the online format. Students who are engaged in part- time or full-time jobs or the ones who cannot attend regular classes due to physical disabilities or personal commitments can work towards earning online degrees and gain valuable credentials to potentially start a career in the entertainment industry. They can study remotely with the help of the internet and earn a perfuming arts degree at their own pace.

Admissions Requirement
A high school diploma or GED is required to pursue a degree in performing arts. Students are also required to go through an audition process in which students demonstrate their abilities. Other admissions requirements may vary by program and school.

Career Prospects
The performing arts degrees can help you increase your chances of becoming a part of the performing arts and entertainment industry. They might also work in performing arts companies, educational services or religious, civic, professional and other similar organizations.

They can also possibly become talent scouts or get into film and theatre direction. They can also attempt to try their hand at television and theatre acting or explore careers in dance performance and choreography. The BLS reports that actors made a median hourly wage of $17.44 while dancers earned a median wage of $13.16 an hour in May 2010.

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

Source: bls.gov