If you have a passion for arts or design, the USA is a melting pot for artistic people like you! Whether you have dreams of animating the next award-winning film or designing a timeless building that becomes an architectural inspiration, there are plenty of amazing art & design programs for international students like you. Are you interested in earning an art & design degree in the USA? Read on to learn how you can! 

What Art & Design Classes Do I Need to Take?

While art and design programs can encompass a lot of different focuses, classes that sharpen your artistic and aesthetic skills, problem-solving skills, and creative expression are all a part of an arts & design curriculum. You can expect to gain relevant art and design concepts, tools, methods, and liberal arts capacities and insights during your first year of art and design studies. Once you have finished your foundational courses, your studies will focus on the type of art or design concentration you wish to practice.

What Are the Different Concentrations for an Art & Design Degree?

As an art & design student in the U.S., you will choose a concentration you want to specialize in. Your concentration should align with your strengths and interests. Most of the core courses you enroll in for an art & design program will depend on the concentration you decide to focus on. There are many types of concentrations that you can choose from based on the offerings at the college or university of your choice. These concentrations may include:

• Photography
• Theatre
• Painting/Drawing
• Dance
• Fashion Design
• Music
• Graphic Design
• Studio Art
• Sculpture
• Animation
• Digital Arts
• Film

What U.S. College or University Should I Attend to Earn My Art & Design Degree?

With more than 4,700 degree-granting institutions in the United States, there is sure to be at least one that’s perfect for you! It would be best if you considered choosing a school that employs many practicing, successful artists and designers to teach you the theory of your concentration and help you gain the practical, real-world experience necessary for your career. Make sure the school you choose also is dedicated to investing in new equipment, programs, and technology to keep you up to speed with the industry’s pace and make you even more appealing to future employers. If you’re interested in an arts & design program that ensures the highest standard of excellence, check if the program has accreditation through organizations like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design or the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools.

Considering internships, work experience, and job placement are also important factors in your decision. You should attend a program that can assist you with placement after graduation through recruitment drives, portfolio reviews, and workshops.