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2025 Best Online Bachelor of Arts Degrees

Written by OnlineU Writers • Updated 8/21/2024

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An online Bachelor of Arts degree offers a way to study creative subjects from the comfort of your home. These programs combine theory and practice, covering disciplines like graphic design and digital media. You'll learn design principles, art history, and technology, and can typically study at your own pace.

Key Takeaways:

  • The University of Florida stands out with high median earnings for its art and design graduates of $51,217.
  • Southern New Hampshire University Online has the highest online enrollment with 135,584 students, positioning it in the top 1% for online enrollment nationwide.
  • The University of Arizona shines with a high recommendation rate of 97%.

Our methodology ranks accredited, fully online college programs based on their online enrollment numbers and graduate earnings at each degree level, using data from the National Center for Education Statistics and manual auditing for accuracy. 

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Featured Popular Online Colleges

2025 Best Online Bachelor of Arts Degrees

#1

  • Salary Score: A
  • Median Earnings: $51,217
  • Online Enrollment: 1,457 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $28,659

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Digital Arts and Sciences

Why we like them: Thanks to its impressive median graduate earnings of $51,217, UF is placed in the top 14% of institutions for graduate salary outcomes, indicating a strong return on investment for your education. The curriculum merges arts, communications, and technology, covering areas such as production, animation, and game design. An emphasis on project-based classes and team-oriented environments prepares you for roles like 2D/3D animator, video game designer, and UI/UX designer. Admission requires a portfolio for upper-division coursework, promoting a hands-on, practical learning approach that aligns closely with industry demands.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: A
  • Median Earnings: $51,217
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 94%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $10,555
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Recommend Rate: 91%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)

#2

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $46,563
  • Online Enrollment: 50,637 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $30,592

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Art - Art Studies

Why we like them: ASU boasts impressive median earnings of $46,563 for graduates, placing it in the top 27% nationally for this metric. Additionally, ASU's commitment to online education is evident with an extraordinary 50,637 students enrolled in online programs, positioning it in the very top 1% of universities in the U.S. The Bachelor of Arts in Art - Art Studies program includes hands-on studio art experiences in areas such as printmaking, painting, and digital literacy, guided by faculty engaged in cutting-edge research. You will find flexible, 7.5-week courses and a range of art electives meant to prepare you for professional practice in various artistic and design fields.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $46,563
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 93%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $12,381
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Recommend Rate: 90%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)

#3

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $44,855
  • Online Enrollment: 2,501 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $26,728

Online degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Development

Why we like them: AAU's noteworthy median earnings figure of $44,855 situates it in the top 32% for earning potential among graduates. When combined with its considerable online enrollment of 2,501 students, it becomes clear that this program is both reputable and widely accessible. The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Development program provides a unique emphasis on practical applications, covering essential areas such as scene setting, figure drawing, and narrative principles. Specific courses include Digital Media: Digital Manipulation and Visual Development for Entertainment Arts, ensuring that you gain proficiency in vital industry standards and software.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: B+
  • Median Earnings: $44,855
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 83%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $8,868
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 44%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Recommend Rate: 44%
  • School Type: For Profit

#4
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

  • Salary Score: B
  • Median Earnings: $42,808
  • Online Enrollment: 1,407 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $22,607

Online degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustrative Design

Why we like them: RMCAD's impact on graduates' earnings is fair, with alumni earning a median annual salary of $42,808, placing it in the top 40% of programs in earnings potential. RMCAD showcases its capacity to deliver quality education to 1,407 online students, positioning it among the top 30% of schools for virtual learning. Beyond these metrics, the online illustrative design program stands out for its blended curriculum that merges graphic design and illustration, offering specialized application courses in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Illustrator. This equips you with both the technical skills and creative acumen required for careers ranging from motion designer to information designer.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: B
  • Median Earnings: $42,808
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 91%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $6,033
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 41%
  • Retention Rate: 62%
  • Recommend Rate: N/A
  • School Type: For Profit

#5

  • Salary Score: B
  • Median Earnings: $42,755
  • Online Enrollment: 135,584 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $9,600

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts Graphic Design and Media Arts - Web Design

Why we like them: SNHU stands out due to its significant online community, boasting an enrollment of 135,584 students, placing it at the very top percentile among online institutions. The program is designed to build essential skills in areas like user-centric design, information architecture, and web development, preparing you for a range of high-demand careers in web and digital design, fields projected to grow by 16% through 2032 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Courses are structurally outlined to include practical and business-oriented skills, ensuring you are ready to meet client needs in various industries effectively and enhancing your employability in the web design field.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: B
  • Median Earnings: $42,755
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 81%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $4,434
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 38%
  • Retention Rate: 62%
  • Recommend Rate: 61%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)

#6

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $36,375
  • Online Enrollment: 35,243 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $11,700

Online degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design

Why we like them: At LU, the online enrollment is particularly noteworthy, with 35,243 students participating in virtual studies, placing it among the top 1% of universities for online student populations. LU’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design emphasizes practical skills through hands-on practicum and internships, equipping you with professional-level experience even before graduation. You will have access to the Adobe Creative Suite, including industry-standard software like Photoshop and InDesign, and courses are structured to culminate in a portfolio project, enhancing your job readiness. The program consists of 120 credit hours and offers the flexibility of 100% online, 8-week courses.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $36,375
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $12,471
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Recommend Rate: 57%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)

#7

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Online Enrollment: 24,940 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $17,488

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Design and Development - Graphic and Multimedia Design

Why we like them: DeVry has an extensive online enrollment of 24,940 students, placing it among the top 1% of institutions for online student population. This signifies a rich virtual learning environment that many students find appealing for their educational needs. DeVry's graphic design program provides training on industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office productivity tools. The curriculum is meticulously designed to prepare you for Adobe Certification Exams in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, or Premiere Pro, enhancing your employability upon graduation, and making DeVry a compelling choice for those aspiring to excel in the field of multimedia and graphic design.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $6,899
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 23%
  • Retention Rate: 65%
  • Recommend Rate: 59%
  • School Type: For Profit

#8

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $32,202
  • Online Enrollment: 6,616 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $11,800

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Design Arts & Practices

Why we like them: UA made our list due to its popularity among online learners. The online enrollment at UA is significant, with 6,616 students, showing its capability to deliver quality education at scale. The Bachelor of Arts in Design Arts & Practices requires 120 credits for completion and costs $525 per credit. Its curriculum combines project-based courses, innovation with new technology, and interdisciplinary faculty engagement. Core subjects include drawing, photography, design thinking, and animation, giving you a diverse skill set that spans computational thinking, data analysis, and visual communication, culminating in a capstone project tackling complex, real-world challenges.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $32,202
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 98%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $15,279
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Recommend Rate: 97%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)

#9

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Online Enrollment: 842 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $19,300

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Art and Design

Why we like them: LU distinguishes itself with a solid number of online learners (842) and military students (321), indicating that flexibility is an important aspect of its learning culture. The program’s diverse art and design curriculum offers specializations in areas such as digital art, graphic design, and photography, ensuring that you can tailor your education to your career goals. While the BA's core curriculum is focused on liberal arts studies. The program has a strong focus on studio practice and provides students with a solid foundation in art history and theory. Graduates will enter the workforce with certifications in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 100%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $15,840
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Recommend Rate: 92%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Private)

#10

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $22,661
  • Online Enrollment: 679 enrolled
  • Annual Tuition: $29,634

Online degree: Bachelor of Arts in Art

Why we like them: UMT stands out due to its enrollment figures in online programs (679), placing it within the top 45% for online student communities across schools. This demonstrates a well-established and appealing online infrastructure. The Bachelor of Arts in Art offers an array of modules that cover a breadth of artistic disciplines, allowing students to specialize in areas like design, painting, animation, and photography. The program also emphasizes flexibility and individualization, encouraging students to work closely with advisors to tailor their studies according to their professional aspirations, which strengthens personalized learning outcomes.

Key Metrics:

  • Salary Score: N/A
  • Median Earnings: $22,661
  • Financial Aid Recipients: 100%
  • Avg. Aid Package: $5,645
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 43%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Recommend Rate: 88%
  • School Type: Nonprofit (Public)

Featured Popular Online Colleges

Student Reviews of Online Art & Design Programs

The downfall of the online education, Graduated 2018

Attended: Academy of Art University

When I started my online classes at AAU C.P. was the director of the online education as well as the onsite. After attending about a year they brought in a new director named Lourdes Livingston. Since then I have noticed a steady downfall in quality. Another problem is if you have to repeat a class (which I did due to medical) the curriculum is exactly the same. It's as if the instructors really don't have the needed credentials to be our Professors. I have heard the onsite education is so much better,... Read More

Review Date: 1/29/2016

Attended: Academy of Art University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

The downfall of the online education, Graduated 2018

Nick R., Graduated 2017

Attended: Rasmussen University Online

I am currently enrolled and everyone has been extremely helpful. From the advisory department to admissions, everything has gone smooth, my teachers have been quite hands-on and respond when questioned with thoughtful answers. I haven't graduated yet but I can say that I am already quite happy with my choice. You get out what you put in, so if you work hard and study hard then you will earn yourself a good degree and education.

Review Date: 9/8/2015

Attended: Rasmussen University Online

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Nick R., Graduated 2017

Martha Ray, Graduated 2017

Attended: The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division

I have studied at many different schools while obtaining my degree and the Art Institute has been one of the best that I have attended. Beyond just the convenience of being able to do my classwork on my terms around work and not having to deal with the hassle of going to a campus, I had academic advisers who works hard to help me achieve my goals and help me when things weren't going as they were suppose to. I had a financial adviser who helped me understand every bill I received and helped me get... Read More

Review Date: 12/22/2017

Attended: The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Martha Ray, Graduated 2017

KR, Graduated 2014

Attended: University of Colorado Boulder

As with any big university you get lost in a lot of classes - too big for the professors to care to know your name. But once you get deeper into your field they get weeded down and you get to know your professors well and students too! Everyone is very nice, laid back and understanding. CU often has a bad wrap for being a "party" school, but the truth is there are hundreds of highly intelligent people on campus. Variety is good :)

Review Date: 8/6/2014

Attended: University of Colorado Boulder

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

KR, Graduated 2014

Whitney N. Scott, Graduated 2014

Attended: University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky is more than a campus, but a family. Being a student means automatically becoming a member of the Big Blue Nation and a tradition of more than just sport-related achievements. As a top research university, UK always strives to maintain its ranks among other universities by pushing and encouraging students. Even with the temperamental weather forecasts, campus is beautiful throughout the year and you are sure to keep those pesky "freshman 15" away from walking to all of... Read More

Review Date: 9/3/2014

Attended: University of Kentucky

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Whitney N. Scott, Graduated 2014

Heather Forde, Graduated 2002

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth

An outstanding faculty for a fraction of the price of neighboring art programs- PLUS, you can never undersell the importance of a university. Making connections with classmates from a variety of backgrounds in a variety of fields and programs is integral to learning to function and make connections in the real world.

Review Date: 8/7/2019

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Heather Forde, Graduated 2002

Brandon K, Graduated 2016

Attended: Academy of Art University

All of you listen. AAU is a little special school. It does not require any degrees or tests - SAT, TOEFL, nothing. If you got the money and will you are welcomed. Also it does not have a campus. There are buildings all over the San Francisco and you go here and there. What did I pay for then? Instruction and information only, my friends. To people who're saying "this school is expensive!" please... stop showing others your stupidity. You haven't got the opportunity to enroll to other "good schools,"... Read More

Review Date: 11/30/2015

Attended: Academy of Art University

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Brandon K, Graduated 2016

asu grad, Graduated 2014

I believe the academics are great but the size of the school and student to teacher ratio can be very overwhelming. I like to connect with my teachers and it's almost impossible to do at asu.

Review Date: 6/30/2015

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

asu grad, Graduated 2014

Phillip Stokes, Graduated 2014

Full Sail is a great University just like all others. You will need to be an really driven to succeed in the entertainment industry. With a degree from Full Sail you will be able to get employed in both the private and federal sectors. Be sure you live in a state or city where there are plenty of jobs, and where the career development department can actually help you.

Review Date: 9/7/2016

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Phillip Stokes, Graduated 2014

Amber, Graduated 2012

Attended: College of DuPage

COD's instructors were excellent and helpful. The classes I took were challenging and I learned a lot. I have been to a few colleges prior to COD and this was one of the best undergraduate experiences I have had. Register was a breeze and it is easy to find assistance if you need it.

Review Date: 12/15/2017

Attended: College of DuPage

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Amber, Graduated 2012

Ehm, Graduating 20012

Attended: University of Washington - Seattle

College was an amazing experience, I loved being at a big school because there are so many opportunities to explore your interests beyond what you may have imagined!

Review Date: 8/10/2015

Attended: University of Washington - Seattle

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Ehm, Graduated 20012

Abigail Skahan, Graduated 2019

Attended: Houghton College

I loved going to Houghton, and the art program was phenomenal. If you are considering Houghton, just remember that it is a Christian college, so there are rules, such as dorm restrictions on opposite sex visitors and no alcohol. However, if you're looking for a rich and thought provoking college experience, Houghton is for you! It's a tiny, beautiful campus, where you'll recognize just about every face you pass and there are ample opportunities to build relationships with fellow students and get... Read More

Review Date: 6/29/2019

Attended: Houghton College

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Abigail Skahan, Graduated 2019

James Barbosa, Graduated 2019

Attended: New York University

Being surrounded by professional scholars at NYU automatically challenge my current thought process and deepen my understanding of technology. I was tested in working with other classmates from all walks of life, thus creating an environment of teamwork abilities. My experience at NYU has enabled me to learn how to facilitate work and leadership skills amongst a diverse group of people. As a result, I enhanced my performance in leadership direction, communicating, and writing ability. Therefore,... Read More

Review Date: 9/26/2019

Attended: New York University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

James Barbosa, Graduated 2019

Em, Graduated 2018

Attended: University of North Texas

The Univerisity of North Texas (UNT) is a fantastic school for students interested in any major. The university offers a wide selection of degree programs and is well known for its College of Music as well as its College of Visual Art and Design (CVAD). During my four years at UNT, I studied Fine Arts and found the faculty, facilities, and course content phenomenal. The CVAD building was recently renovated and construction was completed following my graduation but from what I saw, the facilities... Read More

Review Date: 5/16/2019

Attended: University of North Texas

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Em, Graduated 2018

Carolyn Slead, Graduated 2017

Attended: Eastern Connecticut State University

Great school, warm, staff is very helpful, often goes the extra mile, so to speak, for their students. Lots of new buildings. Parking isn't great but there is a shuttle.. Campus feels safe. Library is beautiful. Other students are friendly. I am 40 studying visual arts but I don't feel 'old'

Review Date: 3/16/2015

Attended: Eastern Connecticut State University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Carolyn Slead, Graduated 2017

Claire Seef, Graduated 2017

Attended: East Carolina University

East Carolina University is a very diverse school, with so many different programs to offer. There is a beautiful campus with so many friendly, inviting people to help you. Classes within my major were small and hands on, and you get to know your professors one on one. The staff is all very helpful and understanding, and willing to get you to your goals.

Review Date: 2/2/2017

Attended: East Carolina University

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Claire Seef, Graduated 2017

Catheryn Gutierrez, Graduated 2017

Attended: Valencia College

Valencia college was an amazing experience. I have a diverse schedule with work and having a son, so the professors worked with me so i can obtain the best grade to my ability. The program, the staff, the help in any subjects were outstanding. The direct connect to UCF made the transaction process easy and manageable with a difficult schedule. I cannot wait to continue my education and i would recommend Valencia to any person that has real life and still wants to pursue an education.

Review Date: 3/20/2017

Attended: Valencia College

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Catheryn Gutierrez, Graduated 2017

Cheyenne Myrie, Graduated 2017

Attended: SUNY at Purchase College

SUNY Purchase is a great college for artists and those interested in a career in an interdisciplinary field. I highly recommend the school to those who want to meet like-minded individuals looking to shake up the art world. Those not interested in the arts may have trouble finding their tribe but can also find success. Purchase will open your mind to the possibilities within your field.

Review Date: 6/28/2017

Attended: SUNY at Purchase College

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Cheyenne Myrie, Graduated 2017

Meghan Pollex, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Wisconsin - Whitewater

UW-Whitewater provided high quality resources for students with special needs. With the accommodations they have provided, they assisted students in job opportunities, exam spaces, and individualized education plans. The cultural atmosphere in the Art Department is authentic, sincere, and compassionate. The technical aspects taught in each of my courses provided a high amount of versatility, strength, and personal growth.

Review Date: 12/22/2017

Attended: University of Wisconsin - Whitewater

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Meghan Pollex, Graduated 2017

SMC, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Boston

I arrived at Umass Boston in 2016 when the new building, University Hall, which houses the art department, had just opened. These state-of-the-art facilities and talented faculty provided fertile ground for my undergraduate education. I was able to enjoy the creative and rigorous selection of art history classes, on subjects ranging from American women photographers to materials, materiality and meaning in art. Studio classes were also great, and were led by experienced faculty of professional artists... Read More

Review Date: 3/28/2019

Attended: University of Massachusetts - Boston

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

SMC, Graduated 2017

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
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Overview of the Best Online Art Degrees

Online bachelor's in art degrees are available in several subfields. Curricula vary based on the program, but students can major in commercial art, architecture, computer animation, fashion, graphic design, visual communication, art history, and web design, to name a few. It’s also possible to double major or get a dual degree in multiple disciplines.  In general, online learners should spend some time determining which medium, style, and subject matter they find most appealing so they can begin mastering specific techniques and developing their creative processes. This way, art students may graduate with a set of professional and technical skills, an understanding of the creative industry, and a polished portfolio in their chosen arena.

Enrollment in an online bachelor's in art program requires applicants to have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Competitive programs may further require that students submit a portfolio of artwork. While an online degree in art typically takes four years to complete, accelerated programs are designed to be finished in as little as two-and-a-half years.

What Kind of Art Degrees Are There?

Below we list some of the most common art degree concentrations available: 

Computer Animation: This type of animation is used in film, television, games, and more to add special effects or create a new work from scratch. Specializing in computer animation can teach you how to use technology in order to create digital art.

Game Art and Development: This focus centers around the concepts, technology, and storytelling that become video games. Through both traditional and digital media, game artists and developers work through the various phases that lead to a complete game.

Fashion: Specializing in fashion can lead to careers in designing, retail, management, and textiles. An art degree with a fashion focus provides students with an understanding of business, current trends, and industry technologies.

Interior Design: Interior designers create comfortable, creative spaces in all kinds of buildings, from homes and bars to hospitals and offices. Specializing in interior design helps students learn some skills of the trade, like how to bid on projects and lead teams with a creative vision. 

Painting: Painters should have a thorough understanding of materials, art history, and art theory. Pursuing a painting specialization provides students with the skills and knowledge to improve their skills and work as professional artists.

Photography: Photography has a long history and utilizes many different technologies. Specializing in photography can teach students to use both film and digital cameras, editing software, photo development, and how to publish their work.

Are you unsure about pursuing an art degree? Explore our comprehensive list of online bachelor's programs, including online degrees focused solely on fashion, photography, video game design, and more.

Accredited Online Art Schools

Accreditation is a process in which third parties evaluate colleges and universities to determine whether they offer students a quality education. Attending an accredited institution has several benefits, and it's especially important for online students because it signals a program's credibility to potential employers and qualifies students for federal financial aid.

Prospective students seeking an online art degree should consider enrolling in an art school accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design — an organization that sets nationwide standards for higher education in the arts. Alternatively, students should ensure that their school has been evaluated by an accrediting agency recognized by either the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Common Courses in Art Degrees Online

Students enrolled in an online bachelor's of art program often have some flexibility when developing the coursework to fit their educational goals. For instance, they can choose to take online classes in visual marketing, consumer psychology, and design technology. Many modules also involve gaining hands-on experience with specific tools or software, thus helping students develop applied skills in their chosen area of expertise. 

While classes vary by program, the following is a list of common online courses students can expect to take with a Bachelor in Art Design:

Art History

Students taking this class gain an understanding of historical art forms with the objective of contextualizing their personal work in a particular style or movement. In addition to learning about how techniques have evolved, art history classes also cover how cultural movements influenced artistic expression.

Color Theory

In this fundamental course, students learn about the basics of color harmony. Specifically, they explore why and how different color combinations complement each other from a psychological and visual arts perspective. Students also learn about the differences associated with applying color theory in two- and three-dimensional mediums.

Composition and Visual Design

Usually aimed at students majoring in certain niches, including digital photography, film, or multimedia, this course introduces the basics of visual storytelling. Students delve into foundational concepts — such as exposure, depth of field, and movement — and learn how these factors affect image quality. They also typically gain hands-on experience with an array of camera equipment.

Design Thinking

In this course, students learn how to effectively visualize and present their ideas to an audience. Topics covered include digital media, graphic design, and streamlining the creative process. Students taking this class have the opportunity to gain valuable problem-solving and communication skills in marketing and interior design.

What Can You Do With an Art Degree?

Graduates with an art degree may find employment in a range of settings, including galleries, museums, studios, schools, and nonprofits. As an alternative to traditional employment, many artists choose to work as independent contractors or freelancers providing specific services or selling artwork to clients. 


As with other professions, job opportunities in this field largely depend on the wider economy — especially the demand for artistic services and products. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts only a 2% job growth for art and design jobs, which is significantly slower than the average for all occupations. 


Artists with bachelor’s degrees online may qualify for a range of employment opportunities. An online fine arts degree offers the chance for students to develop their skills in a particular area, signaling to employers that a graduate has formalized knowledge and training. 

Below is a list of potential career paths for art graduates, along with median annual salary and job outlook data from the BLS:

Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers

Annual Median Salary:  $52,120
Job Growth Rate: 12%

Archivists, curators, and museum workers manage private and public artwork collections. This may involve identifying and appraising new pieces, maintaining existing catalogs, and planning exhibitions. Some professionals in this vein may also work as independent consultants helping private collectors acquire specific kinds of artwork.

Art Directors

Annual Median Salary:  $100,890
Job Growth Rate: 4%

Art directors are managers that oversee the work of an artistic team. Their job involves conceptualizing artistic objectives, approving designs, and overseeing the completion of projects. Art directors can work for publications, movie studios, or even public relations firms.

Fine Artists

Annual Median Salary:  $49,960
Job Growth Rate: 6%

Fine artists create pieces that typically convey emotions or meaning through various mediums. They may also fashion everyday items into artwork, like furniture or cutlery, that perform specific functions. Many fine artists display their work in museums or galleries.

Graphic Designers

Annual Median Salary:  $50,710
Job Growth Rate: 3%

Graphic designers are responsible for visualizing and communicating complex ideas to different audiences. They tend to work with specific design software in order to present important information to clients. Graphic designers often use their skills to construct websites, develop product packaging, or create logos.

Photographers

Annual Median Salary:  $39,950
Job Growth Rate: 9%

Photographers are usually freelancers and may specialize in specific genres, such as photojournalism, portraiture, wedding photography, or cinematography. Photographers may also work in postproduction, editing pictures and videos to meet client needs.

Special Effects Artists and Animators

Annual Median Salary:  $78,790
Job Growth Rate: 5%

Special effects artists and animators use software to create images, videos, and other visual media designs. They may work on movies, video games, television commercials, and diverse media art forms, often completing a specific part of a larger project.

Is an Art Degree Worth It?

The worth of an art degree can vary based on an individual's career goals and financial circumstances. For example, students interested in a career emphasizing creativity and self-expression may benefit from the skills and industry connections sometimes derived from earning an art degree online. However, an art degree may not be as flexible as other bachelor's credentials — particularly when it comes to developing widely applicable skills.

Consider the following pros and cons of an online art degree: 

Potential Benefits

Passion projects

CareerExplorer reports that most artistic careers have a high job satisfaction rate. It's common sense that when you pursue a career in a field you love, you’re more likely to find satisfaction in the work.

Interesting people

Art is a creative pursuit, so the people who pursue this field of study can be some of the most fascinating, compelling folks. You’re almost guaranteed to engage with a plethora of captivating artists during your higher education experience and beyond.

Career options

Art is a diverse field with many degree and career options. From music and acting to public installations and cultural histories, art takes many forms and paths.

Potential Drawbacks

Fluctuating stability

In 2020, UNESCO reports that 10 million creative jobs were lost because of COVID-19. Due to the collaborative nature of the arts, there are many factors that play into job availability. Funding, public interest, and location can make it difficult to find and keep work.

Inconsistent pay

If an artist is working based on commissions, then they may only make small sums on an inconsistent basis. Pay differs greatly between high-ranking jobs and self-employed freelance artists. For example, art directors — a position that most often requires at least a bachelor's degree — have a median annual salary over six figures, while craft and fine artists make barely over the median for all U.S. workers, at just $49,960. 

Lack of respect

Although art is seen as an important part of our culture and lives, artists aren’t always valued in our society. Often, jobs in science, business, and politics are more respected than creative careers

FAQs About Online Art Degrees

Can I Get an Art Degree Online?


With many schools offering distance learning options, it is possible to get a fine art degree 100% online. Online students typically use tools, such as video streaming, to learn asynchronously. However, degrees that include project-based learning may use a hybrid model, combining online learning with on-campus visits to attend collaborative workshops.

How Long Does It Take To Get an Art Degree Online?


A bachelor's degree in art requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and takes four years of full-time study to complete, whether it's online or in person. By contrast, students can achieve an associate or master's degree in just two years. Part-time learners who take fewer courses per semester generally take longer to finish.

What Art Degree Makes the Most Money?


Depending on their chosen specialization, art graduates may qualify for well-paying careers in education, creative writing, and web development. While a bachelor's is the minimum requirement for entry-level positions, a master's or doctoral degree can lead to lucrative roles — such as a postsecondary art teacher.

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