How Long Does it Take to Finish an Art Major?

Getting a degree is always an exciting experience. People who are able to find their passion and use education to turn it into a career are very lucky. However, if you are like most of these people, you are probably also anxious to learn how long you’ll have to spend in school before you get to the fun part in finding a career. The thing with an art major is that every different career requires a different educational path. The types of degrees that are available vary greatly from one career to the next, and while some might only need a year or two of education others might be required to get a four-year or longer degree. Here is a breakdown of each different degree and how long they take:

Certificates and Diplomas: These art programs generally last 6 to 12 months and are best for those who need a fast-track to their career. Certificates and diplomas are rewarding for people who want lower level careers in art or even a starting point to resume education later in life.

Associate’s Degrees: The art majors that are offered as associate’s degrees usually take 2 years to complete. Of course, choosing an online program or intensive study can lead to shorter education in some cases. For many art careers, this degree will be sufficient.

Bachelor’s Degrees: Bachelor’s degrees in art will take 4 years to complete. These degrees set the stage for much better careers and higher education in master’s and doctorate programs. Most art majors require a four year education.

Master’s Degrees: This degree is an extension of the undergraduate degree and can allow artists to add a specialty to their repertoire. It generally takes two years to complete a master’s program unless intensive courses are taken.

Doctorate Degrees (PhD): The doctorate level is the highest level of education that an art major can obtain. While most art careers never require this level of training, some seek it for their own personal goals. Most doctorate programs will require about 4 years, but this can vary depending on the student’s schedule and take anywhere from 3 to 8 years to complete. Additionally, it should be noted that there are some instances where a doctorate degree can be pursued without a master’s degree.

Keep in mind that no matter which art major you choose, higher education will always warrant higher salaries and better job opportunities. Just because your chosen career only requires an associate degree doesn’t mean you have to stop there. Get the education that YOU want and then find the career that suits it. Also, there is no harm or shame in only getting a certificate or associate’s degree. Any education that leads you to career success is good enough.