Online art degrees help creative students learn new skills and advance their careers. Many online enrollees work part time while pursuing their degree. Working while earning a degree lets learners build their resumes and earn a paycheck.
Most online art schools offer fully online classes. However, some programs include studio components in person. Online learners can complete these requirements locally.
This page lists the best online art degrees. Read on for answers to typical questions and to learn about common classes and potential careers for graduates.
Featured Online Art Degrees Programs
Best Online Art Degrees
Why Get an Art Degree?
An art degree can help students turn their passion into a career. Many people find fulfillment in earning a living by using their creativity. The BLS projects about 84,900 openings each year for art and design occupations from 2024-2034, which is an average growth rate. Graduates with the best art degrees may stand out in a competitive job market.
Many schools offer art degrees online. An online format can help learners further their education around work and family responsibilities.
Career and Salary Outlook for Art Students
Online art schools prepare students for careers that align with their skills and passions. Graduates may pursue the jobs below after earning their online art degrees. Keep in mind that not every art program offers majors that correspond with these exact careers. Students can work with academic or career advisors to choose a professional path.
These professionals oversee the visual aspects of magazines, movies, and product packaging. They assign tasks to illustrators, graphic designers, and photographers. Art directors give feedback to ensure imagery conveys a message. Many art directors gain experience as graphic designers before earning this advanced role.
These professionals create designs for clothing and accessories. They study trend forecasting to create products that appeal to target audiences. Many fashion designers work as self-employed individuals or for wholesale merchants.
These creators make art for commissions and exhibitions. Craft and fine artists work with many types of mediums. They create photographs, pottery, and jewelry. Some fine artists work with many mediums to create one piece. They need strong tactile skills to create art that stands out.
| Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2024-2034) |
|---|---|---|
| Art Directors | $111,040 | 4% |
| Fashion Designers | $80,690 | 2% |
| Craft and Fine Artists | $56,260 | 0% |
Source: BLS
How Much Does an Art Degree Cost?
Earning an online bachelor's degree costs an average of $51,091, according to EducationData.org. However, art degree costs vary by school, program length, and learners' residency status. Full-time students can earn a bachelor's degree in four years. A master's degree typically takes two years.
In-state learners pay an average of $38,496 for their degree. Out-of-state students pay $54,183. Online learners attending a private college spend $60,593. Degree-seekers exploring online art schools can research the most affordable programs without relocating.
Additional Online Student Fees
Students attending online art schools should plan for extra expenses, such as technology fees. These fees may cover online database subscriptions or tech support. Some schools also charge graduation fees.
Classes that require access to an art studio may cost more. Enrollees usually need to buy supplies like paintbrushes and high-quality paper. Online learners may need to pay fees to cover maintenance for things like photography darkrooms or soldering tools.
Courses in an Art Program
Nearly every creative program requires art foundation classes and specialty classes. Most classes include a combination of hands-on work and standardized tests. Advanced art classes require art critiques and portfolio reviews rather than essays and tests.
Students pursuing online art degrees often take the classes below. Keep in mind that classes vary by program. Degree-seekers can contact their prospective schools to learn about specific offerings.
Art History
This class covers popular art movements. Learners discover how ancient Romans created art through architecture and how the Renaissance further built upon the advancements. Coursework covers the impressionist movement and surrealism. Students also learn about postmodernism. The curriculum highlights artists like Picasso, Monet, and Michelangelo.Color Theory
Degree-seekers study how color interacts with art. Students practice mixing pigments to create different hues. Coursework also emphasizes how color impacts human emotions. Learners study how to use color to convey messages and evoke certain feelings.Drawing I
Students practice using lines and shapes in proportionally correct ways. They draw still-lifes using various shading techniques and mediums. The second half of the class usually focuses on drawing the human figure. The class ends with a portfolio review, which should demonstrate a skill progression.
Frequently Asked Questions About Art Degrees
Online art degrees prepare students to work as independent artists who take commissions. Graduates can also work in the business or education fields as creative directors or professors.
