Different Types of Art Studies Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

As the creative economy expands, the demand for skilled professionals in art studies continues to rise, making informed educational choices more crucial than ever. Recent labor data indicates steady growth in careers linked to artistic expertise, reflecting both cultural and commercial value across multiple industries. Understanding the diverse pathways within art studies equips students to align their talents with rewarding career opportunities. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the various art studies degrees available and outlines the potential earnings graduates can expect, empowering readers to make strategic decisions about their academic and professional futures.

Key Points About Different Types of Art Studies Degrees and Their Salaries

Associate degrees in art studies often lead to entry-level roles such as design assistants or gallery technicians with average salaries around $35,000 per year, making them a cost-effective option for those seeking quick workforce entry.
Bachelor's degrees in art studies significantly improve career prospects by qualifying graduates for positions like graphic designers or art directors, where median annual salaries typically range from $50,000 to $65,000, reflecting stronger long-term earning potential.
Master's degrees in art studies open doors to advanced careers including university professors, curators, and creative directors, where salaries can exceed $75,000 annually, and also provide greater opportunities for leadership and specialized roles within the creative industry.

What Are the Different Types of Art Studies Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of art studies degrees is crucial for students to select a program that best aligns with their educational background and career aspirations. Each degree offers a distinct combination of theory, practice, and academic depth, catering to various interests and professional goals.

Below is an overview of the main types of art studies degrees and what makes each unique, helping you navigate your options more effectively.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Focuses on intensive, hands-on studio work in visual, performing, or applied arts. Coursework emphasizes developing artistic techniques, portfolio building, and creative problem-solving through practical art-making and critiques.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art: Offers a broad liberal arts education combined with foundational art studies. Students balance studio classes with general education, allowing exploration of diverse academic interests alongside art.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Art: Integrates technical and scientific aspects of art, incorporating courses related to technology, media production, or engineering. The curriculum connects studio training with digital media, sound engineering, or similar fields.
Bachelor of Design (BDes): Centers on design thinking and practical project development in areas like graphic, industrial, or fashion design. Studio courses focus on problem-solving and cultivating a professional design process.
Bachelor of Music (BMus): Dedicated to music performance, theory, and composition, including rigorous individual and ensemble practice, music history, and advanced musicianship.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA): An advanced, often terminal degree combining high-level studio practice with critical theory and research. Students refine their artistic vision and develop a cohesive body of work while engaging in teaching or collaborative projects.
Master of Arts (MA) in Art or Art History: Emphasizes academic study, research, criticism, and curation. Coursework focuses on art theory, history, and critical analysis for scholarly or curatorial careers.
Art History Degrees: Concentrate on cultural, historical, and theoretical studies of art. Courses cover art criticism, the evolution of movements, and societal impact, emphasizing strong research and analytical skills.

Salary prospects for graduates vary by degree and field within art studies, with roles such as graphic designers earning around $50,000 and art directors over $100,000 annually according to recent data.

For those looking to supplement their education with quick, practical credentials, exploring 6 month online courses that pay well can provide additional career advantages.

What Specializations Are Available in Art Studies Degrees?

Choosing a specialization is an essential factor when pursuing an art studies degree because it helps students focus their education on specific artistic disciplines and align their skills with targeted career paths. This focused approach enables learners to develop expertise and network effectively within their chosen fields.

Below are some common art studies specializations that illustrate the diversity and opportunities available within this area of study.

Art History: This specialization concentrates on the academic examination of art across different cultures and time periods. It develops strong research, critical thinking, and curatorial skills, preparing graduates for careers in museums, galleries, education, or art criticism.
Studio Art: Encompassing painting, sculpture, drawing, and printmaking, studio art emphasizes hands-on creation and personal artistic development. Students refine technical proficiency and portfolio building, leading to roles as practicing artists, educators, or gallery professionals.
Animation and Digital Arts: Focused on digital creation techniques and multimedia storytelling, this specialization teaches software mastery and visual narrative skills. Graduates often find opportunities in film, gaming, advertising, and other entertainment industries.
Graphic Design: This area instructs students on design principles, visual communication, and digital media production. Careers typically include graphic and web design, with median salaries around $50,710 in 2024.
Art Education: Preparing students to become visual arts teachers, this specialization covers pedagogy and classroom management. Art educators' salaries vary from $48,000 to $65,000 depending on experience and location.
Industrial and Product Design: Combining creativity with technical problem-solving, this path focuses on designing consumer products through prototyping and user experience. Graduates often work as product designers or UX/UI specialists, earning around $77,030 annually.
Photography: Concentrating on photographic techniques and digital editing, this specialization prepares students for commercial photography, photojournalism, and fine art photography careers.
Art Therapy: Integrating art and psychology, this field supports mental health through creative expression. Art therapists work in healthcare, community organizations, or private practice with average salaries near $56,000.

For those interested in exploring flexible learning paths tailored to their schedule, there are also options among the best online programs for seniors that offer specialized art studies curricula.

How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Art Studies Degree?

Understanding the duration of various art studies degree programs is crucial for students planning their education and career timelines. Knowing how long it takes to complete each type of degree helps in making informed decisions regarding enrollment, budgeting, and future job prospects.

The following overview highlights the main art studies degree types and their typical completion times.

Associate Degree in Art Studies: Typically takes about two years of full-time study to complete. Part-time enrollment can extend this duration, while transfer credits from previous coursework may shorten it. Many colleges offer online and accelerated options that allow students to finish more quickly.
Bachelor's Degree in Art Studies: Usually a four-year program, depending on course load and whether students attend part-time or full-time. Some institutions offer accelerated tracks that can reduce the timeline to three years, while taking lighter course loads or changing majors may increase the time needed to graduate. Online degrees are also increasingly common in this category.
Master's Degree in Art Studies: Most master's programs require one to two years of study after completing a bachelor's degree. The length depends on whether the program is thesis-based or course-based, and enrollment status. Part-time and online options can extend or offer flexibility in completing the degree.
Doctorate in Art Studies: Doctoral programs can take anywhere from three to seven years, largely dictated by research requirements, dissertation work, and the student's pace. Full-time studies may accelerate completion, but many PhD candidates pursue their degree part-time while working, which extends the timeline.

Are There Accelerated Art Studies Degree Programs?

Accelerated art studies degree programs provide a streamlined path for students aiming to complete both their bachelor's and master's degrees in a shorter timeframe than traditional routes. Typically, these programs allow students to finish both degrees in about five years instead of six or more, achieved primarily through overlapping coursework. Undergraduate students take graduate-level classes during their junior and senior years, with those credits counting toward both degrees simultaneously.

This approach reduces redundancy and enables a faster progression through academic requirements. Common formats include condensed courses, year-round terms, and the option to transfer graduate credits earlier than usual. Some schools permit applying up to a dozen graduate credits to both degrees, while others have slightly fewer but still significant credit overlaps.

Additionally, many programs offer banded tuition, where students pay undergraduate tuition rates for graduate courses, making the accelerated path financially attractive. However, this efficiency comes with a more demanding workload, as students must balance advanced graduate studies alongside remaining undergraduate responsibilities.

Eligibility for accelerated art studies programs often hinges on early declaration of interest, usually by the second semester of the freshman year, along with maintaining a strong GPA-often between 3.0 and 3.2. Students also need to submit a separate graduate application, commonly by their junior year. These requirements emphasize the need for careful academic planning and close advisor collaboration to successfully navigate the increased course load and dual-degree standards.

The programs may focus on areas such as art education with teacher licensure, museum studies, or art history, offering flexible structures tailored to different career goals. Despite the challenges, the chance to complete two degrees faster while saving on tuition costs attracts many motivated students seeking an accelerated track in art studies.

Are Online Art Studies Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online art studies degree programs and traditional on-campus offerings have become increasingly aligned in maintaining strong academic standards. Both formats typically follow rigorous accreditation processes, with regional accreditation remaining the benchmark for credibility. Leading universities now provide identical curricula, faculty expertise, and degree requirements across both formats.

While traditional programs emphasize hands-on experiences such as studio work and collaborative projects essential for developing practical skills, online degrees incorporate virtual studios, digital collaboration tools, and remote critique sessions to achieve the same learning objectives. This blend of flexibility and academic rigor ensures that online art studies programs uphold standards comparable to their on-campus counterparts.

Employer acceptance of online art degrees has notably improved over recent years. A majority of academic leaders agree that the outcomes of online education are equal to or better than those of traditional programs. Employers increasingly prioritize the reputation of the institution and the quality of graduates' portfolios or work samples rather than focusing solely on how the degree was earned.

For instance, degrees from well-regarded universities with established physical campuses are valued similarly by employers, irrespective of whether coursework was completed online or in person. With millions of students now engaged in online learning, skepticism toward these degrees continues to decline. Ultimately, the credibility of an art studies degree depends more on the institution's accreditation and reputation than on the delivery format itself.

How Much Does Each Type of Art Studies Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding the tuition differences across art studies degree levels is crucial for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Knowing what each degree typically costs helps students and families make informed decisions about their education investments.

Below is an overview of the typical tuition ranges for each type of Art Studies degree, highlighting key cost factors and financial aid possibilities.

Associate Degree in Art Studies: Tuition at community colleges and public institutions tends to be the most affordable, usually averaging between $1,100 and $8,000 per year for in-state students. Out-of-state fees can increase costs, but online options often provide savings by eliminating commuting and housing expenses. Common financial aid includes federal Pell Grants, work-study programs, and state grants aimed at reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Bachelor's Degree in Art Studies: Costs vary widely depending on the type of institution and residency status. Public universities typically charge $6,000 to $13,000 annually for in-state students, while out-of-state and private institutions can range from $20,000 to $60,000 or more per year. Online programs offer a more affordable alternative, with tuition between $8,480 and $18,000 annually. Financial assistance may come from federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and merit-based awards.
Master's in Art Studies: Graduate-level programs generally have the highest overall cost, with an average total expense around $71,000 for the full degree. Top private art schools may charge $35,000 to $50,000 or more per year, while public university tuition tends to be lower, particularly for in-state residents. Financial aid opportunities often include graduate assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships tailored to graduate students.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Art Studies Degree?

The level of art studies degree you earn-whether associate, bachelor's, or master's-strongly influences the career paths available and the professional responsibilities you can expect. Higher degrees typically open doors to more specialized and senior positions, while entry-level degrees prepare graduates for foundational roles in creative fields.

Below is an overview of common jobs for each art studies degree type to help you understand the opportunities each level offers.

Associate Degree in Art Studies: Graduates often find positions such as gallery assistant, junior graphic designer, or studio technician. These roles involve supporting artists and managing basic design tasks in settings like community art centers, small galleries, and design studios.
Bachelor's Degree in Art Studies: A bachelor's degree qualifies you for careers including art teacher, illustrator, museum technician, graphic designer, and art sales consultant. Work environments are diverse, such as schools, museums, advertising firms, and media companies. For example, graphic designers had a median annual salary of $58,910 in 2022.
Bachelor's Degree in Art History or Visual Culture: This specializes in roles like museum curator, art appraiser, or art administrator. Responsibilities focus on organizing exhibitions, authenticating art, and managing collections within museums, auction houses, and cultural institutions.
Master's Degree in Art Studies or Fine Art: Advanced positions such as college professor, senior curator, art director, art therapist, or conservator become available. These roles emphasize research, leadership, education, and specialized restoration work. For instance, art directors earned a median salary of $105,180 in 2022.

How Do Salaries Differ by Art Studies Degree Type?

Degree level in art studies often has a significant impact on earning potential, with higher degrees generally leading to better salaries and broader career options. Understanding these salary differences by degree type can help students make informed decisions about their education and future paths.

Below are typical salary ranges for various art studies degrees, highlighting key factors that affect pay.

Associate Degree in Art Studies: Graduates usually begin in entry-level roles like gallery assistants or junior graphic designers. Starting salaries typically range from $22,000 to $35,000 annually, influenced by geographic location and industry. Advancement often requires further education or specialized skills.
Bachelor's Degree in Art Studies (including Bachelor of Fine Arts/BFA): A bachelor's degree enables access to careers such as graphic designer or art educator. Early career salaries usually fall between $28,500 and $39,000, with median earnings near $39,272. Experience and working in high-demand urban markets can increase salaries to about $53,000 or more.
Master's Degree in Art Studies (including MFA): Those with master's degrees often find roles as art directors, museum curators, or instructors. Starting salaries range from $45,000 to $60,000, rising to $70,000-$106,000 for experienced professionals, depending on leadership roles and employer type.
Doctoral Degree in Art Studies (PhD, EdD): Doctoral graduates commonly pursue academic or research careers, with starting salaries from $55,000 to $75,000 as assistant professors or researchers. Senior faculty positions can earn $85,000 to $120,000+, especially at major universities or in metropolitan areas. Some candidates explore 2 year PhD programs to accelerate their path in academia.

Is There High Demand for Art Studies Degree Holders in the Job Market?

There is moderate to growing demand for art studies degree holders in the U.S. job market, driven largely by emerging technologies and shifting workforce needs. Skills in digital media, design, and technology-driven fields such as digital marketing, animation, UX/UI design, and web development have become highly valued. For instance, graphic designers are expected to see a 2-3% growth in job opportunities through 2033, while multimedia artists and animators may experience approximately 4% growth.

The expansion of gaming, entertainment, and e-commerce sectors continues to fuel demand for professionals skilled in software like Adobe Creative Suite and web coding. Regional differences also play a role, with urban and tech-centric areas offering more opportunities for digital and design roles, whereas traditional art fields like fine arts education face variability and often require graduates to combine multiple income sources to sustain their careers.

This nuanced landscape highlights how students pursuing art studies should be mindful of these evolving trends when considering their career paths.

Salary data further illustrates the market potential for art studies graduates. In Missouri, for example, median annual earnings for craft and fine artists increased by 24% over five years, reaching $53,000 in 2023 nationally, the median wage in art and design careers averaged $51,660-7.5% higher than the overall median for all occupations. High-paying positions such as creative director, art director, and multimedia artist command salaries ranging from approximately $99,000 to $150,000 but typically require advanced skills and experience.

About 88,000 job openings per year are projected in arts and design professions through 2033, indicating sustained opportunities. Prospective students interested in finding cost-effective education options in this field may also benefit from exploring the cheapest online bachelor degree programs available.

Overall, art studies graduates with a combination of artistic creativity and technical proficiency, especially in digital domains, are best positioned to capitalize on the evolving creative economy.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Art Studies Degree?

Choosing the right degree level in art studies is a critical decision because it directly impacts both your career opportunities and personal fulfillment. Selecting a program aligned with your goals and circumstances ensures your education supports your future ambitions effectively.

Consider the following key factors when evaluating which art studies degree to pursue:

Career Goals: Your intended profession should guide your degree selection. For example, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) focuses on hands-on studio work ideal for practicing artists, while a Bachelor of Arts (BA) offers broader academic exposure for roles like arts administration or education.
Curriculum Focus: Different degrees balance practical skills and academic coursework. BFAs emphasize specialized art practice, BAs allow more flexibility to explore other fields, and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees may suit those interested in technical applications such as digital media.
Time Commitment: Degree lengths vary, with most BA and BFA programs taking four years, but degrees like the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) requiring five years. Graduate degrees such as the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) also extend educational timelines for specialized careers.
Return on Investment (ROI): Consider the financial outcomes of your degree choice. Specialized programs may offer higher earning potential but often involve higher tuition and competitive job markets, so researching placement rates and salaries is essential.
Specializations and Flexibility: Look for programs that offer concentrations or the option to combine disciplines. BFA degrees usually require focused specializations, whereas BA degrees often provide opportunities for dual majors or minors to match your interests.

What Art Studies Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Juan: "Completing my bachelor's degree in art studies was a transformative journey that opened doors to countless creative opportunities. The program's balance between practical studio work and critical theory gave me a strong foundation to start my career as a gallery curator. I've been able to promote emerging artists and foster community engagement through exhibitions, which continuously fuels my passion for the arts. The network I built during my studies proved essential in securing stable, rewarding work that aligns with my values. The confidence and skills I gained continue to shape my professional path each day."

Renaya: "After graduating with a master's in art studies, I found my perspective on cultural history enriched and deeply nuanced. This degree challenged me to think critically about art's role in society and allowed me to connect with diverse communities through educational projects. My work now empowers young people to explore their identities through creative expression, which feels incredibly meaningful. The challenges of bridging academic theory with community impact have honed my leadership and communication skills. I am grateful for the personal and professional growth this program sparked in me."

Eli: "Pursuing a doctorate in art studies pushed me to the forefront of scholarly research and interdisciplinary collaboration. Navigating complex theories alongside innovative art practices prepared me for a career in academia where I mentor students and contribute professionally to the field. This degree demanded high levels of discipline and resilience but also granted me opportunities to publish and speak at national conferences. The experience cultivated a professional maturity that continues to open doors for career advancement and meaningful contributions to art education. I approach my work with both professionalism and passion thanks to this journey."

Other Things You Should Know About Art Studies Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary for a bachelor's degree in art studies?

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in art studies usually earn between $40,000 and $50,000 annually. Salaries depend on job roles, experience, and geographic location within the United States.

Do higher degrees in art studies guarantee higher salaries?

While advanced degrees such as a master's or doctorate in art studies often lead to higher salaries, this is not guaranteed. Earnings also depend on the specific career path and level of experience.

Which art studies careers offer the highest salaries?

Art studies professionals working in art direction, museum curation, and academia tend to earn higher salaries. Leadership roles in galleries or creative departments often pay more than entry-level art positions.

How does location affect salaries for art studies graduates?

Location greatly impacts salaries, with urban areas and regions with a strong cultural presence typically offering higher pay. Cost of living and demand for art professionals vary, influencing compensation accordingly.