An online associate degree in art and design may equip individuals with the skills and training required to develop their artistic talents into a career. In this two-year program, students may learn how to develop their creative niche, hone their photography skills, and understand color theory and blocking. Popular areas of concentration may include interior design, photography, and graphic design.

Upon graduation, students may either seek entry-level employment or pursue an art and design baccalaureate degree. Associate-level graduates may seek employment in photography, web design, game design, and music.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 13% (2010-2020)*

Program Concentrations

An associate-level art and design degree program may consist of select general education requirements alongside core courses specific to the student’s area of concentration. Students may take courses such as color theory, digital imaging, and fundamentals of design. Possible areas of concentration for an associate degree in art and design may include the following:

• Jewelry Design
• Graphic Design
• Interior Design
• Photography
• Fashion Design
• Web Design
• Animation

Career Options

Associate-level graduates may gain employment in photography, web development, computer systems design, fashion design, and fine arts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic design employment is projected to increase by 13% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Multimedia Artist
• Fashion Designer
• Photographer
• Graphic Designer
• Jewelry Designer

Continuing Education

Students who successfully complete an online art and design associate degree program may wish to continue their education by transferring to a baccalaureate program. An art and design bachelor’s degree may equip students with advanced technical skills in their chosen focus area. Employers may not require a formal degree for art and design employment; however, technical employment may require formal education.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook