Some people who earn arts and design degrees may struggle to pay back school loans when they join the workforce. Now, some universities are aiming to help individuals obtain bachelor degrees in three years instead of four.
Many online colleges allow you to take classes at your own pace, so it is entirely possible to earn a degree in a shorter amount of time. Getting an online degree in three years as opposed to four gives students the opportunity to get a job sooner, therein increasing their income exponentially. This could also help people get a head start on their career path while saving money in the long run.
Other colleges are looking at shortening the time it takes to earn an art degree as well. According to the Christian Science Monitor, schools such as Hartwick College in Oneonta, N.Y are part of this growing trend. The four-year institution recently allowed students majoring in art history to graduate one year early.
Some professors are in favor of a structured, shorter curriculum. “From an educational point of view, I think it would be a stronger curriculum. From a financial viewpoint, it would save families 25 percent,” Robert Zemsky, an education professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education, told the news source.
According to CollegeBoard.com, the average tuition for a private, four-year university during the 2009-2010 academic year was over $26,000 annually. Students who want to cut the costs of obtaining an arts and design degree may consider earning an online college degree.









April 20, 2010
I’ve always wanted to pursue a degree in the arts, especially coming from an arts background. Thanks for this helpful article to help me with my dream!
April 28, 2010
I am very talented in artistic design and have always wanted to get my degree and go into designing. I already have a job working in an office, but after reading this article, I will pursue my passion again. Thank you for this very valuable information.
May 14, 2010
I am interested in getting into art design, but computerized. What course of study do I need to complete in order to do this!
May 14, 2010
Do you need to go to a school for fashion design in order to find a job working for a clothing designer?
June 1, 2010
It’s great to see that inspiring artists are receiving this much help. But is it true that you can get scholarships for an online college?
June 1, 2010
anyone know what the cost of textbooks would be? online classes seem like the more affordable route and i was just wondering what kind of books i’m going to be looking at.
June 2, 2010
I have always loved art and have a passion for design. Would I be a good candidate for an art design?
June 2, 2010
An interesting article, but of course art history majors can finish in 3 years! Online college does sound enticing though to be honest.
June 9, 2010
I am interested in going back to school and getting my degree. I am very artistic and think I would enjoy advertising. What is the difference between advertising and marketing?
June 20, 2010
I am trying to get financial to get my degree in advertising. Are there any special circumstances that will help me?
June 28, 2010
I’ve always loved art but I never thought I could actually get paid for doing it as a career, f-ing awesome! How would I go about learning more about the available online classes?
July 2, 2010
i can’t wait to be done with school and out in the working world, thanks for the heads up!
July 2, 2010
Sounds like a great plan. Can I get financial aid for this online degree?
July 2, 2010
I have already been approved for financial aid and have started on a marketing degree. If I change to graphic design, can I still use the financial aid I was approed for?
August 8, 2010
I am so passionate about fashion and want to go into fashion merchandising. I should have done right from high school, but was not ready for that commitment. Now I have matured and want to get into it. What is the best way to start, get a job, or start school?
August 8, 2010
I have been working for a magazine and am getting into to design end of it. I have take some graphic design courses, but I am thinking that I should get my degree. Can I do that online?
August 8, 2010
I do enjoy art and design, but I am not quite sure of what a graphic designer does.
October 8, 2010
Graphic Designers work on and off the web using different software programs to create and edit images, create special effects and enhancements, create corporate or brand designs and much more.
October 8, 2010
Graphic Design degrees can be pursued online, just make sure to find what school is right for you.
October 8, 2010
Attending school for Fashion Merchandising can be a great way to start your career, through school you can learn about internship and job opportunities as well as network with others interested in that same field.
December 30, 2010
I have been working for a graphic designer at a major magazine for the last 4 years and have taken some courses, but do not have my degree. I want to start looking for a job where I can be creative. Do I need to finish my degree first, and can I use what I have learned toward my degree?
December 30, 2010
I am quite interested in getting my degree in graphic design. Can I start out by just taking some random courses and gradually ease into a degree program?
February 20, 2011
I am interested in getting a degree in art. Can I achieive my entire degree online?
February 20, 2011
I am already working in the interior design industry,even though I don’t have a degree. Now that I am gain some prestigue in the industry, should I get that degree?
February 20, 2011
I am interested in getting a degree in graphic arts and would like to go to school online. Do I need to find a school that specializes in the arts?
February 20, 2011
A degree in art sounds good to me.
February 21, 2011
Hi Amy. Congrats on your blooming career; going back to get your degree is a great idea. A degree can enhance your marketability to future employers and earn you more money in the long run.
February 21, 2011
Hi Mel. A degree in graphic design doesn’t necessarily have to be completed at an arts school. Many institutions offer a graphic arts program, it is up to you where you are most comfortable getting your degree whether it be an on-campus or online program.
March 10, 2011
Hi Debbie. What kind of art are you interested in?
March 11, 2011
Hi Harry. If you’re curious about the online education experience please check this out.
March 29, 2011
Hi Sean. If you don’t want to jump right into a long degree program, maybe you should start off with an associate’s in graphic design. If you’re interested in just taking a few courses to start off speak with an advisor to determine which classes will benefit you in the long run of getting your degree. Good luck!
March 29, 2011
Hi Jeff. I would recommend finishing your degree as it can make a world of a difference. You’ll want to talk with someone at the school you plan to attend to figure out that the best route is for you.
October 18, 2011
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