Earn an Associate of Arts Degree in Art
Majors Overview March 28, 2014A broad knowledge of the theories and history in the creation of art will be provided in an associate’s degree program in Art. More information can be found in this article.
Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree Programs in Art
Students enrolling in 2-year associate’s degree programs in Art will explore various artistic mediums, and be introduced to basic techniques and tools applied in creating art. Students become adept at analyzing the relationship between content and form, recognizing relationships and connections between visual art forms, solving visual problems and recognizing aesthetic movements from the past. Coursework also involves delving into creative technology used in graphic design and digital imagery. Some schools organize programs into a fine arts track and graphic design track.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Students may also be expected to have a portfolio of artwork or completed prior coursework in art.
Coursework
The associate’s degree program typically comprises general education classes in composition, behavioral sciences and natural sciences. Coverage of some topic areas in art, such as drawing and painting, may transpire in two or three course levels. Art courses may include:
•Photography
•Art history
•Sculpture
•Drawing
•Painting
•Design fundamentals
•3D design
•2D design
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 5% has been projected for craft and fine artists during the decade of 2010 to 2020 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, craft and fine artists took home an average annual wage of $44,380.
Continuing Education Choices
Many Art associate’s degree programs allow students to transfer their credits earned into a bachelor’s degree program; where they would get greater leeway by being allowed to specialize in particular mediums, such as photography, drawing or painting.
