Many colleges have the funding, academic resources, and strong alumni network, to support the most popular and “practical” majors including business, pre-medicine, and communications.  Fewer colleges are able or willing to support the arts in meaningful ways. So students looking for a creative education, and especially those who know they want to have a career in the arts, have some extra legwork to do when it comes to finding the best place to study. Consider the following four points to help you find the best collegiate arts education:

  1. Departmental resources. The strength of any academic department is founded on how much money it has to maintain facilities, recruit talented faculty, and support students in many different ways. If you are considering an arts school, you need to be sure that this will not be an issue. While you may not want to ask an admissions officer about a departmental budget, you can look at the condition of studios, performance spaces and other facilities, the number of courses offered compared to other majors, the number of faculty, and the department’s activities/performances calendar to get a sense of how much a given university values the arts.
  2. Accomplished faculty. Research current faculty members’ works, accomplishments, and reputations. Do they specialize in areas you are interested in? Would you be able to accomplish your educational goals through the courses they offer? Are they connected to companies, galleries, or talent agents who can showcase your skills? Do they look like they could mentor you as you begin your career? What have previous students said about them in online reviews?
  3. A strong career center and alumni network. The support of a college’s career services and alumni network can make your career. Yes, you may be able to do it on your own, but with stiff competition out there, it will never hurt to have others pulling for you. Be sure to explore what a given university’s career center has to offer. Workshops? Resume help? Alumni connections and mentoring? Ask about graduates’ experience with finding jobs & internships. How does it usually happen? Are they getting the jobs they want? Are there stipends available if your employer is not able to pay you?
  4. Opportunities to gain other marketable skills. The creative’s career path is often a winding one. And, until you get your big break or are running your own show, you may need to get a job to help pay the bills. Look for a place where you can take a few classes that will translate into marketable skills like website design, marketing, event planning, or another related field where there may be more paying opportunities in the short term.

For some of the best arts programs, check out Ithaca College and Savannah College of Art & Design. Looking for more information on performing and visual arts colleges? Check out our Guide to Performing and Visual Arts Colleges or attend a NACAC Performing & Visual Arts College Fair in your area.

Which arts programs are you considering?