The Value of a Performing and Visual Arts Degree

As college costs continue to climb, prospective students and their families increasingly question the value of non-traditional majors like art. While STEM fields often dominate the spotlight for their perceived career prospects, the reality is that the art world plays a pivotal role in shaping our society and economy. 

“We could say that STEAM is the new STEM, as the world realizes that science, technology, engineering, and math reach next-level excellence when they’re enhanced by artistic perspectives — adding the “A” for the Arts,” said Chelsea Garner-Ferris, Director of Marketing and Communications at Ringling College of Art and Design. 

After all, art is integral to our daily lives — from the design of products we use to the experiences we consume. The visual language developed by artists informs everything from advertising campaigns to user interfaces and experiences. As technology advances, the demand for creative problem-solving and visual communication skills grows exponentially.

The transformative power of an arts degree

An arts education enriches students’ lives in countless ways, too. Students trace the evolution of artistic techniques, styles, and themes from the earliest times to the present day. This historical perspective fosters a broader understanding of human culture and society.

Beyond intellectual growth, arts education nurtures empathy and compassion. Through exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives, students develop a greater appreciation for the human experience and a stronger sense of social responsibility. 

Pursuing an arts degree instills a sense of purpose and motivation. The ability to create something tangible, whether a piece of art, a performance, or a design, fosters a feeling of accomplishment and personal fulfillment. 

A foundation for success

While many students enter college with a clear career goal, the true value of higher education often extends beyond immediate job prospects. A degree in the visual and performing arts cultivates a unique skill set essential for success in the modern workforce. 

Visual and performing arts students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication abilities through rigorous studio practice and theoretical coursework. They learn to synthesize complex ideas, conduct research, and present their work effectively. These students master discipline, focus, and time management as they navigate demanding projects and deadlines.

The collaborative nature of the visual and performing arts fosters teamwork and adaptability. Art students regularly engage in critiques and receive feedback, developing resilience to criticism and a capacity for constructive collaboration. They also learn resourcefulness as they manage budgets, materials, and studio spaces. 

While the traditional notion of artists as solitary figures may persist, the reality is that artists are increasingly sought after for their skills in innovation, design, and problem-solving. They enjoy diverse and successful careers across various industries.

From advertising and marketing to technology and healthcare, creative professionals are driving innovation and shaping industries. Transferrable soft skills like time management, teamwork, and problem-solving are also valuable in the business, marketing, public relations, corporate training, and event management sectors.

AI’s impact on the arts

Artificial intelligence (AI), through its capacity to learn from vast datasets and generate new content, is reshaping the artistic landscape. Recent advancements in AI-driven art creation have sparked debates about its potential to supplant human artists. But a more nuanced perspective suggests a future where AI and human creativity coexist and complement each other.

When it comes to using AI while earning a degree, James Huckenpahler, Professorial Lecturer, Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at the George Washington University, said:

“I don't think anyone fully understands the implications of generative AI, just as in the late 1990s no one really predicted that from the internet would emerge social media or its consequent negative impact on the mental health of children and teenagers. The best defense I think I can provide to students is to encourage them to dive deep into generative AI with a critical mind: kick the tires, see what it can and can't do, and consider how it might be used against you. 

“As a teacher of digital media, I set the rules of engagement on day one of class each semester: 1) Unless told otherwise, feel free to use generative AI for any assignment, BUT 2) you must cite the tool used and the prompt or input, AND 3) you must transform the output in some meaningful way, and be prepared to discuss/defend the final product. Using the tech will cause students to begin to intuit, and then form hypotheses about the bounds of what the tech can do.”

The performing and visual arts industry stands at a crossroads. While AI introduces unprecedented possibilities for artistic expression and production, it also raises questions about the role of human artists and the value of original works. Rather than a binary choice between humans and machines, the future likely lies in a hybrid model where AI serves as a tool to enhance creativity.  AI automates certain tasks and even creates new artistic forms, but the demand for human ingenuity, emotional connection, and original thought will persist.

What better time than now to pursue a degree in the performing or visual arts, where students can participate in how the world adapts and harnesses AI’s potential while preserving the irreplaceable qualities of human creativity?

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to Performing & Visual Arts here.