Career Opportunities for Majors in Visual Arts

Students in Visual Arts are guided by accomplished artists/teachers to pursue their goals in ceramics, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, and film/video. A solid background in art history and contemporary critical analysis, as well as core liberal arts courses is provided. This educational approach enables students to graduate from the B.F.A. program with the variety of skills necessary for a career as a creative artist.

Generally, visual artists fall into two categories - "graphic artists" and "fine artists" - depending on the artist's purpose in creating a work of art. Graphic artists put their artistic skills and vision at the service of commercial clients, such as major corporations, retail stores, advertising, design, or publishing firms. Fine artists create art to satisfy their own need for self expression, and may display their work in art galleries, museums and homes. Some of their work may be done at the specific request of clients. Fine artists work independently, choosing their mediums and subject matters as they see fit. Often, they specialize in one or more forms of art, i.e. painting, sculpting, or printmaking. In many instances, visual artists work in more commercially connected endeavors, while pursuing their "fine arts" goals.

Additionally, you may:
 

• Explore the career paths of RU Alumni Career Network mentors.
• Go to the Rutgers Online Career Planning Site to explore your interests, skills and values. Use the program for either: High School Students | College Students.
• Explore Rutgers University academic department information related to this major.
• See the Occupational Outlook Handbook for additional career information.
• Pick up your "Career Opportunities" handouts at any New Brunswick Career Services office.