If there’s one field where a degree might not always be required, it’s that of art. The field is, however, very wide-ranging and competitive. Many artists typically develop their skills through art degrees and other degrees at the bachelor’s level, or they embark upon some other type of art or design training beyond high school, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many colleges and universities, along with art and design schools, offer degrees in art.
There are, in many people’s minds, two types of artists: Fine artists and commercial artists. A fine artist typically creates their own sketches, sculptures, paintings and illustrations. These artists (think Vincent van Gogh or Claude Monet) might not need degrees in order to carry out their work. However, fine artists often work second jobs as curators or teachers, information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests. In the latter instance particularly, a college or university degree along with teacher certification would be necessary. There are also commercial artists who typically create products to satisfy a client’s needs and goals.