Fine Arts and Art Studies: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Salaries for Fine Arts and Art Studies graduates vary by role and location. Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $80,190 annually, while Artists and Related Workers, All Other earn around $72,760. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $107,953 compared to $41,790 in Kansas. Approximately 115,260 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.

Currently 74 accredited institutions offer Fine Arts and Art Studies degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Mohave Community College (MCC) (109 graduates), County College of Morris (CCM) (56 graduates), and Academy of Art University (45 graduates).

Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.

Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 1,787 in 2010 to a peak of 993 in 2020, before declining slightly to 751 in 2023-24. This represents a 58% decrease overall from 2010.

The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.

This degree prepares you for roles such as Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary, Artists and Related Workers, All Other, and Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators. Related occupations employ approximately 115,260 professionals nationwide.

Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.