Essential Information
Two-year associate's programs in art introduce students to the history and approaches involved in the creation of art. Students learn to think critically about the relationship between form and content, recognize connections and relationships between visual art forms, solve visual problems and recognize aesthetic movements from the past. Learners also delve into creative technology used in digital imagery and graphic design. Some programs are organized into a graphic design track or a fine arts track.
Students may later transfer into related bachelor's degree programs. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. Some schools may also request prior art coursework or a portfolio of artwork. Online courses and programs exist.
Associate Degree in Art
General education courses in natural science, behavioral science and composition are typically part of an associate's degree program. Some art topics, such as painting and drawing, may be covered in two or three course levels. Common courses include:
- Design fundamentals
- Drawing
- Painting
- Photography
- Sculpture
- Art history
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that craft and fine artists are expected to show little or no change in employment opportunities from 2019 to 2029. Fine artists made a median annual salary of $52,340 in 2020, according to the BLS. Craft artists made a median yearly wage of $35,180 in the same year.
Continuing Education Information
Many associate's degree programs in art are set up with the intent of helping graduates transfer into a bachelor's degree program. Bachelor's degree programs allow transfer students more leeway to specialize in a particular medium, such as painting, drawing or photography.
An associate's degree program in art offers specialization tracks in graphic and fine art, and various course levels in subjects like painting and drawing. Graduates may go on to complete a bachelor's degree program.