Art Schools in California
California is the most populous U.S state and the 12th largest economy in the world. Some of its top industries are social assistance, government and healthcare. It is considered as one of the best states for business (Forbes Magazine). California is also home to several prominent colleges and universities that offer programs in wide variety of fields. Those of you who are interested in pursuing art education can find plenty of choices in the state. As a quality academic program can make all the different in your career, you must explore all your options and compare between the best arts schools in California so that you may enroll in a program that is best suited for your educational and professional goals.
Career outlook for various art related professions are positive. According to the BLS, employment of graphic designers is expected to increase by 13% from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Forbes has touted being a graphic designer as one of America's 20 Most Surprising Six-Figure Jobs. Opportunities for multimedia artists and animators are also expected to grow due to increased demand for animation and visual effects in TV, video games and films. Other art related occupations such as film directors and producers can also find good career opportunities as jobs for these professionals are also expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations from 2010 to 2020.
Art Schools in California
California's art schools offer numerous degrees in a wide variety of art related fields. U.S. News & World Report has ranked many of the state's schools among the best ones in the nation. Learners interested in the arts can work towards the bachelor of arts, bachelor of fine arts, bachelor of architecture or the master of arts, master of fine arts or master of business administration in design strategy programs. The bachelor's degree can be completed in 4 years while a master's degree may take 1-2 years to complete depending on the individual learning route of students.
Types of Programs
Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in various art fields such as graphic design, drawing and painting, film, photography, and more. Programs are also available in dance, music and theater. Advertising, entertainment and illustration are also among the degrees students can pursue at California art schools.
Curriculum
The coursework in the art programs vary by degree level and program type. Students in fine and studio art programs may get instruction in topics such as drawing, sculpting, designing in 3D, game design and interactive media. Other courses may include advertising design, video and animation production.
The curriculum in animation programs may include courses like kinematics, digital animation, game design and modeling. Degrees in film also cover a wide variety of topics that prepare students for careers as directors, productions or camera operators. Motion picture fundamentals, cinematography, script development and film production are among the courses students may pursue in these art programs.
Employment Opportunities
Graduates of the arts can find exciting career opportunities in advertising, motion picture and video industries, software publishers or public relations. Opportunities are also available in radio and television broadcasting, performing arts, and related industries. Multimedia artists can make between $33,000 and $100,000 while directors and producers can earn between $32,000, and $166,000 a year.