6 Jobs You Can Get With Your Fine Arts Degree

Classrooms Team

Dec 2, 2020
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You’ve finally expressed interest in a fine arts degree, only to have your parents ask what kind of a job you’ll ever get with that. Maybe you’ve even asked yourself the same question. Is earning a Bachelor in Fine Arts a worthwhile pursuit? What can you do with a Fine Arts degree?

Well, depending on your passions and talents, you can land a variety of jobs after earning your degree. The world is your oyster, and your opportunities are practically endless. Of course, you may have to be a self-starter in the beginning. However, many art careers that already exist and may be a perfect fit for someone with your type of degree. Here are a few kinds of jobs involving art to consider.

1. Photographer 

Featured first on our fine arts career list, photography is one of the most popular! If you enjoy capturing art through a lens, study to become a photographer. The field of photography is particularly diverse, allowing you to create art out of your favorite subjects. Whether you enjoy shooting landscapes, people or inanimate objects, there’s a niche for you — and if there isn’t, create your own. 

Many ease into this line of work by shooting weddings, proposals, graduations and other momentous occasions. Shoot a few different subjects while you’re in college to find one that best suits your interests. Then, get to work taking photos for free to establish your name in the community, gain new clients, and eventually turn them into paying customers. 

2. Videographer

You might also consider becoming a videographer. Shoot everything from action movies to home births with your trusty camera and mic. Like photography, this line of work can be difficult to get into. However, after gaining all the necessary knowledge in college, there are still things you can do to improve your skills and gain experience. 

Attend workshops, look for internships at television companies and film studios, create your own films, and market your creative mind. When clients come knocking, don’t reject those that won’t pay as much as you’d hope, especially early on in your career. You need all the practice you can get. 

3. Designer

Do you have a knack for creating something out of nothing? Become a designer! This title encompasses a variety of jobs, so there are a handful of opportunities for you to consider. For instance, if you’re into clothing trends, consider becoming a fashion designer. You could also become a product designer and earn more than $100,000 a year. 

Since this field is so broad, it’s wise to narrow down your interests and choose an occupation that most excites you. You may also need more technical or creative skills, depending on which career path you choose. The earlier you decide, the more time you’ll have to study in college and gain experience before graduating.

4. Architect

Are you considering interior design? Give some thought to architecture as well. Becoming an architect requires a lot of technical knowledge. However, it’s a wonderful option for fine arts majors that don’t mind the occasional math equation or geometry problem. 

While you’re still in school, continue to grow your illustration skills so you can draw up blueprints and effectively communicate your ideas to stakeholders someday. You might also consider becoming a landscape architect. This type of professionals designs landscapes and greeneries to complement the buildings around them. 

5. Conservator or Historian

Conservators care for artifacts, artwork and cultural collections by implementing various preservation and restoration methods. To secure a job in this field, you’ll need a firm grasp of the science behind ideal environments for old and fragile objects. You might also handle artifacts directly to prevent deterioration and prolong their lives. 

As a conservator, you may work in an art gallery, natural history museum, an archive, a historic building, or a similar setting. Alternatively, you might find a job in a specific area of conservation like archeology, textiles, stained glass, or even metals. Take a few art history and conservation classes to prepare for a role in this field. You might become more deeply interested in the history surrounding artistic movements and decide to work in an educational museum, as well.

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6. Stage Manager

If you’ve always loved the performing arts and are passionate about theater, look into stage management. This job entails more than just calling cues and overseeing technicalities. On top of the more meticulous note-taking and observation skills, you’ll also have to pay attention to actors and their characters so you can give them feedback during rehearsals. 

Become a well-rounded stage manager as you study both performance and business theater in college. Learn about the entertainment industry, manage student productions and develop an understanding of design, drawing and drafting in class and behind stage. 

Become an Artist

You went to school to study fine arts, so why not become an artist? Your degree will prepare you to use various mediums to express yourself and capture the world around you. Put that talent and creativity to good use through painting, illustrating, sculpting, weaving and more! 

While it may be difficult to find a job as a self-proclaimed artist, there’s always a chance you’ll create something so brilliant that you won’t have to. Be your own boss and make a name for yourself and your art. Dream big and never stop learning or creating. When it comes to art, the sky’s the limit. 

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